Employment Law 101: How to Commence a Civil Legal Action

Employment Law 101: How to Commence a Civil Legal Action
HOW TO COMMENCE A CIVIL LEGAL ACTION

Under Washington State laws and court rules, how does a plaintiff commence a civil legal action (i.e., civil lawsuit)? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: All hyperlinks in this article with an asterisk (*) will take the reader away from this website to an external website. This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. Please review our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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Introduction

In Washington State civil litigation, the commencement of a legal action is a critical step that sets the stage for the entire legal process. Let’s delve into the key aspects of initiating a civil action as outlined in the state’s rules and statutes. NOTE: this article only addresses commencement in Washington State Superior Courts*.

How to Commence a Civil Legal Action

Except as provided in Washington State Superior Court Civil Rules (CR), CR 4.1*, a civil action in Washington State can be commenced in two primary ways:

1. Service of Summons and Complaint:

The action is initiated by serving a copy of a summons along with a copy of the complaint, as outlined in Rule 4* of the state’s legal procedures. This service of documents is a fundamental step in officially notifying the defendant of the legal proceedings against them.

2. Filing a Complaint:

Alternatively, a civil action can also be commenced by directly filing a complaint with the court. This formal submission of the complaint initiates the legal process and sets the case in motion.

See CR 3*.

Timely Response and Filing Fee Requirement

Upon commencing the action, there are specific timelines and requirements that parties must adhere to:

Written Demand for Filing:

If any other party in the case makes a written demand, the plaintiff instituting the action must pay the filing fee and file the summons and complaint within 14 days after service of the demand. Failure to do so renders the service void.

Effect on Statute of Limitations:

It’s important to note that an action is not considered commenced for the purpose of tolling any statute of limitations unless specified otherwise in RCW 4.16.170*. This statute outlines exceptions where the commencement of an action may affect the timeline within which legal actions can be pursued.

Ensuring Legal Compliance and Timely Action

Complying with the rules regarding commencement of civil actions is crucial for all parties involved. It ensures that legal proceedings are initiated in a timely and legally valid manner, preventing potential disputes or challenges regarding the validity of service or commencement.

Conclusion

Initiating a civil action in Washington State involves careful adherence to procedural rules regarding service, filing, and responding to demands. Understanding these rules and timelines is essential for legal practitioners and parties involved in civil litigation, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant commencement of the legal process.

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*NOTE: Links with a single asterisk (*) will take the reader away from our website to an external governmental website.


Read Our Related Articles

We invite you to read more of our articles related to this topic:

» Employment Law 101: Statute of Limitations

» Employment Law 101: The Complaint

» Employment Law 101: The Defendant

» Employment Law 101: The Summons

» Tolling and Commencement Are Reconcilable (WA State)**

» WLAD Statute of Limitations

» WLAD Statute of Limitations: Equitable Tolling

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**NOTE: The link will take the reader to our Williams Law Group Blog – an external website.


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Employment Law 101: The Complaint

Employment Law 101: The Complaint
THE COMPLAINT

Under Washington State law, what is a “complaint” within the context of legal proceedings? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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INTRODUCTION: THE COMPLAINT

In Washington State jurisprudence, a “complaint” refers to a formal written document that commences a civil lawsuit. This crucial document is typically filed by the plaintiff, the party initiating the legal action, against the defendant, the party being sued. The complaint serves as a detailed statement of the plaintiff‘s claims, outlining the legal basis for their grievances and the specific relief or remedy they seek from the court. Essentially, it marks the beginning of the legal process in Washington State.

COMPONENTS OF THE COMPLAINT

A well-constructed complaint in Washington State must encompass specific elements to be legally valid and sufficient to initiate a lawsuit. These essential components include:

1. Caption:

The complaint begins with a caption that identifies both the court and all the parties involved in the lawsuit, listing the plaintiff(s) and defendant(s). This section provides clarity about the parties and their roles in the legal dispute.

2. Jurisdiction and Venue:

It is imperative for the complaint to specify the court’s jurisdiction over the matter and the appropriate venue where the lawsuit should be heard. This ensures that the case is heard in the correct jurisdiction.

3. Statement of Facts:

The heart of the complaint lies in the statement of facts. This section presents a comprehensive narrative that details the events leading to the dispute. It typically answers the fundamental questions of “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” and “how” regarding the alleged wrongdoing.

4. Legal Claims:

Within the complaint, the plaintiff articulates the legal claims or causes of action they are pursuing. These claims must be firmly grounded in Washington State law (or other relevant/applicable law) and must be presented with sufficient detail to provide the defendant with a clear understanding of the allegations.

5. Request for Relief:

The complaint typically concludes with a segment that outlines the specific remedies or relief sought by the plaintiff. This may include monetary damages, injunctive relief, or other forms of legal remedies available under Washington State law.

CONCLUSION

In Washington State jurisprudence, a “complaint” serves as the bedrock of a civil lawsuit, marking the initiation of legal proceedings. This formal document elucidates the plaintiff’s grievances, legal claims, and the relief sought from the court. Understanding the components and significance of a complaint is essential for individuals navigating the legal landscape in Washington State. It signifies the initial step in a legal journey that may ultimately lead to justice, resolution, and the protection of individual rights in a state that upholds the rule of law.


READ OUR RELATED ARTICLES

We invite you to read more of our articles related to this topic:

» Employment Law 101: Alternative Dispute Resolution

» Employment Law 101: Definition of Pleading

» Employment Law 101: Depositions

» Employment Law 101: Discovery (WA State)

» Employment Law 101: Legal Theory

» Employment Law 101: Mediation

» Employment Law 101: Motions

» Employment Law 101: Remedies

» Employment Law 101: Statute of Limitations

» Employment Law 101: Summary Judgment

» Employment Law 101: The Defendant

» Employment Law 101: The Plaintiff

» Employment Law 101: The Summons


LEARN MORE

If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

Employment Law 101: Definition of Pleading

Employment Law 101: Definition of Pleading
PLEADINGS

What is the definition of the term “pleading“? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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INTRODUCTION: PLEADINGS

Within the legal profession, the term “pleading” stands as a fundamental cornerstone that shapes the trajectory of legal proceedings. Rooted in centuries of legal tradition and jurisprudential evolution, pleadings serve as the formal and structured communication through which parties to a legal dispute present their respective claims and defenses. This article delves into the multifaceted definition of “pleading” in relation to the legal profession, elucidating its significance and pivotal role in upholding justice within our society.

Definition of Pleading

Pleadings are a legal document that initiates and outlines the framework of a lawsuit. Typically, they consist of two main categories: the complaint and the answer. The party initiating the lawsuit, known as the plaintiff, files a complaint outlining their grievances and allegations against the defendant. In response, the defendant submits an answer, addressing the allegations and presenting their defenses. In Washington State, pleadings can also include the following, depending on the complexity of the case:

[A] reply to a counterclaim denominated as such; an answer to a cross claim, if the answer contains a cross claim; a third party complaint, if a person who was not an original party is summoned under the provisions of rule 14; and a third party answer, if a third party complaint is served. No other pleading shall be allowed, except that the court may order a reply to an answer or a third party answer.

CR 7(a).

Beyond the initial stages of a lawsuit, subsequent pleadings may arise, such as replies and amended complaints. These documents provide a structured platform for parties to articulate their legal positions, present evidence, and clarify the issues in dispute.

Elements of Pleadings

A well-drafted pleading is a carefully orchestrated symphony of substance and structure. It must contain specific elements to effectively communicate the parties’ positions and facilitate the legal process. These elements often include:

1. Caption: The case’s title identifies the parties involved and the court where the case is being heard.

2. Introduction: An opening statement provides a concise overview of the nature of the case and the parties’ roles.

3. Jurisdictional and Factual Allegations: Parties must establish the court’s jurisdiction over the matter and present the facts underlying their claims or defenses.

4. Legal Claims or Defenses: Clear and precise articulation of the legal theories upon which parties base their claims or defenses is paramount.

5. Prayer for Relief: The desired outcomes or remedies sought by each party, which can include, but are not limited to monetary compensation, injunctive relief, or specific performance.

The Significance of Pleadings

Pleadings play a pivotal role in the legal process, serving as a vital bridge between parties’ grievances and the adjudicative system. Their importance is threefold:

1. Initiation and Response: Pleadings initiate legal proceedings by formally notifying the opposing party of the case’s existence and outlining the claims being asserted. In response, pleadings enable the opposing party to present their defenses and counterclaims.

2. Fair and Informed Process: Pleadings create a level playing field by requiring parties to present their case in writing, ensuring that each party is aware of the other’s contentions and can prepare their response accordingly.

3. Judicial Efficiency: Well-structured pleadings streamline the legal process, allowing courts to quickly ascertain the issues in dispute and allocate resources efficiently. They serve as a roadmap for subsequent stages of litigation, reducing delays and unnecessary legal wrangling.

Conclusion

In the realm of the legal profession, pleadings are not mere documents but rather the embodiment of parties’ rights, grievances, and defenses. They epitomize the concept of due process and ensure that justice is served in a structured and equitable manner. As an indelible component of the legal landscape, pleadings lay the groundwork for the entire legal process, embodying the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability that underpin our societal fabric. Thus, it is through this meticulous process of pleading that the foundations of justice are fortified and upheld for all.


READ OUR RELATED ARTICLES

We invite you to read more of our articles related to this topic:

» Employment Law 101: Alternative Dispute Resolution

» Employment Law 101: Depositions

» Employment Law 101: Discovery (WA State)

» Employment Law 101: Legal Theory

» Employment Law 101: Mediation

» Employment Law 101: Motions

» Employment Law 101: Remedies

» Employment Law 101: Statute of Limitations

» Employment Law 101: Summary Judgment (WA State)

» Employment Law 101: The Complaint

» Employment Law 101: The Defendant

» Employment Law 101: The Plaintiff

» Employment Law 101: The Summons


LEARN MORE

If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

Motion to Dismiss Under CR 12(b)(6)

Motion to Dismiss Under CR 12(b)(6)


Under Washington State court rules, how do judges generally address a motion to dismiss under CR 12(b)(6)? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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WASHINGTON STATE SUPERIOR COURT CIVIL RULES (CR)

Pursuant to the Washington State Superior Court Civil Rules (hereinafter, “CR”), a motion to dismiss under CR 12(b)(6) may be presented as follows:

(b) How Presented. Every defense, in law or fact, to a claim for relief in any pleading, whether a claim, counterclaim, cross claim, or third party claim, shall be asserted in the responsive pleading thereto if one is required, except that the following defenses may at the option of the pleader be made by motion:

(6) failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted[ ]

CR 12(b)(6) (first emphasis in original). Thus, pleaders may assert the defense of “failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted” by, inter alia, motion (hereinafter, “motion(s) to dismiss under CR 12(b)(6)” or “motion to dismiss”). Employment discrimination defendants (usually employers) typically file motions to dismiss under CR 12(b)(6) early in the case and file motions for summary judgment near the end of the case. There are significant differences between the two types of motions.

MOTION TO DISMISS VERSUS MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT

“A motion to dismiss questions only the legal sufficiency of the allegations in a pleading.”  Contreras v. Crown Zellerbach Corp., 88 Wn.2d 735, 742 (Wash. 1977). “The court need not find that any support for the alleged facts exists or would be admissible in trial as would be its duty on a motion for summary judgment.” Id. (emphasis added).

HOW JUDGES GENERALLY ADDRESS THE  MOTION TO DISMISS UNDER CR 12(B)(6)

“The question under CR 12(b)(6) is basically a legal one, and the facts are considered only as a conceptual background for the legal determination.” Id. (citing Brown v. MacPherson’s, Inc., 86 Wash.2d 293, 298, 545 P.2d 13 (1975)). Thus, “[t]he only issue Before the trial judge is whether it can be said there is no state of facts which plaintiff could have proven entitling him to relief under his claim.” Id. (citing Barnum v. State, 72 Wash.2d 928, 435 P.2d 678 (1967); Grimsby v. Samson, 85 Wash.2d 52, 55, 530 P.2d 291 (1975)).



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If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

Dismissal Based on Claim Splitting

Dismissal Based on Claim Splitting


Under Washington State law, what are the requirements for dismissal based on claim splitting? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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CLAIM SPLITTING

The general rule for claim splitting is that “if an action is brought for part of a claim, a judgment obtained in the action precludes the plaintiff from bringing a second action for the residue of the claim.” Landry v. Luscher, 95 Wn.App. 779, 782, 976 P.2d 1274 (1999) (Plaintiffs prohibited from suing for personal injuries after obtaining judgment for property damage arising out of same accident) (emphasis added); see also, Nguyen v. Sacred Heart Medical Center, 97 Wn. App. 728, 987 P.2d 634 (1999) (Plaintiff prohibited from raising a new claim on appeal after summary judgment).

RES JUDICATA

The theory of dismissal based upon claim splitting is “variously referred to as res judicata or splitting causes of action.” Landry v. Luscher, 95 Wn.App. 779, 783, 976 P.2d 1274 (1999); see also, Sound Build Homes, Inc. v. Windermere Real Estate/ South, Inc., 118 Wn.App. 617, 628, 72 P.3d 788 (Wash.App. Div. 2 2003) (theory on which dismissal is granted is variously referred to as res judicata or splitting causes of action) (hyperlink added). Thus, the rules of res judicata are typically applied to determine if improper claim splitting has occurred.

DISMISSAL BASED ON RES JUDICATA

Dismissal on the basis of res judicata (also known as claim splitting) is inappropriate unless the subsequent action is identical with a prior action in four respects:

(1) persons and parties;

(2) cause of action;

(3) subject matter; and

(4) quality of the persons for or against whom the claim is made.

Landry v. Luscher, 95 Wn.App. at 783 (internal citations omitted) (paragraph formatting added). This res judicata test is a conjunctive one requiring satisfaction of all four elements. Hisle v. Todd Pacific Shipyards Corp., 151 Wn.2d 853, 866, 93 P.3d 108 (Wash. 2004).

However, the Washington State Supreme Court has been abundantly clear: “[R]es judicata does not bar claims arising out of different causes of action, or intend to deny the litigant his or her day in court.” Id at 865, 93 P.3d 108 (hyperlink added). Ultimately, res judicata will not apply until there has been a final judicial judgment. See Phillip A. Trautman, Claim and Issue Preclusion in Civil Litigation in Washington, 60 Wash.L.Rev. 805, 807 (1985) (emphasis added).

CONCLUSION

Dismissal on the basis of res judicata (also known as claim splitting) is inappropriate unless the subsequent action is identical with a prior action in four respects: (1) persons and parties; (2) cause of action; (3) subject matter; and (4) quality of the persons for or against whom the claim is made. Landry v. Luscher, 95 Wn.App. at 783 (internal citations omitted).


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If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

Affirmative and Negative Defenses

Affirmative and Negative Defenses


Under federal law, are defendants allowed to plead “negative” defenses in answer to a federal complaint in federal court? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. This article may be a repost from one of our retired blogs. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES

“An affirmative defense, under the meaning of Fed.R.Civ.P. 8(c), is a defense that does not negate the elements of the plaintiff’s claim, but instead precludes liability even if all of the elements of the plaintiff’s claim are proven.” Lane v. Page, 272 F.R.D. 581, 598 (D.N.M. 2011) (internal citation omitted) (hyperlinks added). The burden for establishing affirmative defenses generally lies on the defendant. Id. (internal citation omitted).

NEGATIVE DEFENSES

However, “negative” defenses are merely rebuttal to plaintiff’s claims and should be stricken; the courts have held these so-called affirmative defenses (or negative defenses) simply provide a basis to negate an element of the prima facie case for relief and are restatements of denials present in earlier parts of the complaint. See id. (citing Barnes v. AT & T Pension Ben. Plan-Nonbargained Program, 718 F.Supp.2d 1167, 1174 (N.D. Cal. 2010) (striking eight “negative” defenses); see Zivkovic v. S. Cal. Edison Co., 302 F.3d 1080, 1088 (9th Cir.2002) (“A defense which demonstrates that plaintiff has not met its burden of proof [as to an element plaintiff is required to prove] is not an affirmative defense.”(citing Flav-O-Rich v. Rawson Food Service, Inc., 846 F.2d 1343, 1349 (11th Cir.1988))) (internal quotation marks omitted) (hyperlinks added).

CONCLUSION

It appears that under federal law, defendants may plead “negative” defenses in answer to a federal complaint in federal court, but such negative defenses are not affirmative defenses and should be stricken as a defense. A fundamental consideration is whether the time, expense, and risk in bringing the motion to strike is outweighed by the benefit. Obviously, that is only a question for a party or party representative to answer relative to their particular matter.


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If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

Inadvertent Waiver of Res Judicata

Inadvertent Waiver of Res Judicata


Under Washington State Superior Court Civil Rules, how is the inadvertent waiver of the affirmative defenses of res judicata, priority of action, and claim splitting addressed? Here’s my point of view.

(IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and is based upon my point of view. Due to the rapidly changing nature of the law, we make no warranty or guarantee concerning the accuracy or reliability of the content in this article. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct legal advice from your attorney. This article may be a repost from one of our retired blogs. Please review our Disclaimer|Terms of Use|Privacy Policy before proceeding.)


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WAIVER OF AFFIRMATIVE DEFENSES

The Washington State Supreme Court developed two relevant tests to determine whether a waiver of affirmative defenses has occurred:

(1) waiver based on civil rules; and

(2) common law waiver.

Compare, Farmers Ins. Co. v. Miller, 87 Wash.2d 70, 76, 549 P.2d 9 (1976) (explaining waiver pursuant to civil rules), with Oltman v. Holland America Line USA, Inc., 163 Wn.2d 236, 178 P.3d 981 (2008) (explaining common law doctrine of waiver).

It is not uncommon for defendant-employers in employment discrimination cases to inadvertently waive the affirmative defenses of res judicata, priority of action, and/or claim splitting under the civil rules (this article does not address common law waiver).

WAIVER BASED ON CIVIL RULES:  RES JUDICATA, PRIORITY OF ACTION, AND CLAIM SPLITTING

Under CR 8(c), res judicata is listed as an affirmative defense and must be specifically pled. See, e.g., Rainier Nat. Bank v. Lewis, 30 Wn.App. 419, 422, 635 P.2d 153 (Wash.App. Div. 1 1981) (holding “failure of consideration” is an affirmative defense under CR 8(c) and must be specifically pled).

Particularly, in order for res judicata to have a preclusive effect, the second court must be advised of the prior proceeding, and the burden of pleading “res judicata” is listed among the affirmative defenses. See, Phillip A. Trautman, Claim and Issue Preclusion in Civil Litigation in Washington, 60 Wash.L.Rev. 805, 812 (1985) (quotations omitted) (emphasis added).

Moreover, although CR 8(c) specifically delineates 20 affirmative defenses, parties must also affirmatively plead “any other matter constituting an avoidance or affirmative defense.” Beaupre v. Pierce County, 161 Wn.2d 568, 575, 166 P.3d 712 (Wash. 2007). Thus, “claim splitting” and “priority of action” must also be specifically pled as affirmative defenses.

If specific defenses are not (1) affirmatively pled, (2) asserted with a motion under CR 12(b), or (3) tried by the express or implied consent of the parties, they will be deemed to have been waived and may not thereafter be considered as triable issues in the case. Rainier Nat. Bank, 30 Wn.App. at 422 (citing Farmers Ins. Co. v. Miller, 87 Wash.2d 70, 76, 549 P.2d 9 (1976))(emphasis added).

This affirmative defense requirement will not be abrogated where it affects the substantial rights of the parties. Id. (internal citations omitted) (emphasis added).

EXAMPLE:  RAINIER NAT. BANK v. LEWIS

For example, in Rainier Nat. Bank v. Lewis, the plaintiff-bank brought an action to recover funds from a default loan guaranteed by defendants, and defendants specifically plead the affirmative defense of “failure of consideration” for the first time at summary judgment; the court held that defendants failed to specifically plead the affirmative defense “failure of consideration” in their answer and it was therefore waived. Rainier Nat. Bank v. Lewis, 30 Wn.App. 419, 635 P.2d 153 (Wash.App. Div 1 1981) (emphasis added).

CONCLUSION

Under Washington State Superior Court Civil Rules, the affirmative defenses of res judicata, priority of action, or claim splitting may be inadvertently waived if not properly plead.

An employment discrimination plaintiff facing a defendant’s motion for summary judgment based upon defenses of priority of action rule, claim splitting, and/or res judicata would be wise to evaluate whether the defendant has properly asserted such affirmative defenses at the beginning of the case in their responsive pleading; there might be a strong argument for waiver based on the civil rules. I have successfully made this argument on multiple occasions against defendant-employers at summary judgment.

LEARN MORE

If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced attorney to discuss your case. This article is not offered as legal advice and will not establish an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, or the author of this article; please refer to our Disclaimer | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy for more information.

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