In the case of Crown, Cork & Seal Co., Inc. v. Parker (1982), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that a plaintiff's cause of action for discriminatory termination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act begins to accrue when he or she receives notice of termination and not on their last day at work as previously assumed by lower courts. The court held that this interpretation was consistent with both congressional intent and practical considerations related to employment discrimination litigation, such as allowing plaintiffs sufficient time to seek legal counsel and prepare their cases before filing suit. This ruling effectively extended the statute of limitations for bringing such claims, providing greater protections for workers who believe they have been unlawfully terminated due to race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

In the dissenting opinion for Crown, Cork & Seal Co., Inc. v. Parker, Justice Powell argued that the majority's decision to extend the statute of limitations in discrimination cases was not supported by legislative history or precedent and could lead to an influx of stale claims. He contended that this ruling would allow plaintiffs to bring forth lawsuits years after alleged discriminatory acts occurred, which could potentially harm defendants who may no longer have access to evidence necessary for their defense due to passage of time. Furthermore, he expressed concern about potential abuse where a plaintiff might delay filing a claim simply because they are still employed at the company and fear retaliation if they file sooner. Justice Powell believed it is important for legal disputes be resolved as quickly as possible so parties can move forward without lingering uncertainty.