Employment: Manuel worked at Lafarge from 2014 to 2016.
Allegations: Manuel alleged sexual harassment by coworker Kevin Christianson.
Medical Issues: Experienced panic attacks and health issues due to harassment; hospitalized in May 2016.
Termination: Fired on August 2, 2016, due to reorganization; signed a release on August 16, 2016, without legal advice.
Motions:
Lafarge's Motion: Sought summary judgment to declare the release binding and dismiss Manuel's claims.
Manuel's Motion: Sought summary judgment to invalidate the release due to lack of capacity, duress, and unconscionability.
Court's Analysis:
Capacity: No admissible evidence supported that Manuel lacked capacity when signing the release.
Duress: No evidence of illegitimate pressure by Lafarge; Manuel's economic situation and stress did not constitute legal duress.
Unconscionability: While there was unequal bargaining power, the release was not an improvident bargain. The consideration (two months' salary) was appropriate for his tenure.
Conclusion:
Manuel's Motion: Dismissed.
Lafarge's Motion: Granted. The release is binding, and Manuel's statement of claim is dismissed.
Costs:
Both parties to submit cost submissions within 30 days.
