Hunt v. Great Western Savings Bank

Great Western Savings Bank appeals a $220,000 judgment, based on a jury verdict in favor of David A. Hunt, arising out of Hunt's claim that the Bank breached a contract to enter into a lease. We agree with the Bank's contention that Hunt's claim was barred by the statute of frauds, and we reverse the judgment and dismiss the action.

In 1985, the Bank became interested in opening a branch in the Tacoma area. Its interest ultimately focused on a former department store building in Lakewood that Hunt wanted to develop as a "mini-mall." In July 1985, both the Bank and Hunt signed a written "option…