Trusley v. Statler

Thompson, A.C.J.

Florrence Trusley appeals a superior court judgment confirming a mandatory arbitration award. The dispositive issue is whether the court erred when it awarded attorney fees to the defendants, Jim and MeiLynne Statler, pursuant to RCW 4.84.250 et seq., the offer of settlement statute. We reverse.

In July 1990, Ms. Trusley filed this action against the Statlers, alleging they breached an agreement with her to manage their cardroom at the Twin Bridges Inn. In their answer, the Statlers asked for attorney fees under RCW 4.84.185 for defending what they characterized a frivolous…