Background:
Ellis was employed by the defendant from 2009 to 2020 and was terminated in March 2020. Following his termination, he filed a civil claim in 2020, which was settled through a Full and Final Release in 2021. Despite this, Ellis continued pursuing claims, alleging that he was coerced into signing the Release.

Legal Arguments/Issues:
The defendant argued that the Release covered all claims up to its signing in March 2021, rendering the new claims invalid. They asserted that the claim was frivolous, vexatious, and an abuse of process. Ellis contended that defamatory statements made by the defendant were unknown to him when he signed the Release, invalidating it. The court found that the Release was comprehensive and included all claims, whether known or unknown at the time of signing.

Decision:
The court ruled in favor of Opportunities for Independence Inc., striking out Ellis' claim. It held that the claims were covered by the Release and that the continued litigation constituted an abuse of process.

Costs:
James H. Ellis was ordered to pay the defendant costs of $3,000.