Adams v. Jensen-Thomas
Washington Court of Appeals
571 P.2d 958 (1977)
- Written by Whitney Kamerzel , JD
Facts
Mernis Adams (plaintiff) was a married man. Adams had a four-year affair with Frances Jensen (defendant), a divorced woman. Over four years, Adams continuously transferred property and money to Jensen. Adams and Jensen did not live together and kept their relationship a secret because the parties and the public were aware of Adams’s marriage. Adams and Jensen discussed marriage, but because Adams did not leave his wife quickly enough, Adams and Jensen’s affair ended. Adams sued Jensen for the return of the money and property he gave to Jensen. Specifically, Adams argued that the property was a conditional gift, that Jensen breached the promise to marry, or that the court, in equity, must impose a constructive trust. The trial court denied Jensen’s motion to dismiss, and a jury awarded Adams $4,298. Adams appealed, arguing the jury’s award was insufficient. Jensen appealed, arguing the jury’s award was excessive.
Rule of Law
Issue
Holding and Reasoning (McInturff, J.)
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