Lawsuit dismissed against Federal Way lawyer accused of fraud

Judge Cindi Port of King County Superior Court has dismissed a lawsuit against Federal Way lawyer Shawn Harju, who faced accusations of fraud related to nearly $20 million in losses. The plaintiff, Highmore Financing Company, alleged that Harju, acting as an escrow agent for Equinox Business Law Group, was involved in a scheme that included self-dealing through false invoices. However, the court found that Highmore was never a signatory on any of the escrow agreements, undermining their claims of a fiduciary duty. The lawsuit sought damages amounting to $19,954,515. 07, alleging that Harju facilitated fraudulent transactions resulting in significant financial losses.

Judge Port requested supplemental briefs and considered arguments from both sides before ruling. She concluded that the claims of breach of fiduciary duty, breach of contract, and civil conspiracy were invalid. Harju, who is also a business owner and community leader, has denied all allegations. The case's dismissal with prejudice ensures it cannot be retried.