Seattle-First National Bank v. Kawachi

This is an appeal from a judgment of the Superior Court dismissing an action for money due. The sole question presented is whether the court was correct in applying the doctrine of res judicata. We reverse.

On December 20, 1961, George Y. Kawachi received $15,000 from Hisashi Kato and his wife, Shizu Kato, for which he gave his promissory note. On February 21, 1962, Kawachi received $10,000 from the Katos to invest for them. This was evidenced by a written memorandum. In October 1970, Shizu Kato, individually and as executrix of her deceased husband's estate, brought an action against George…