A King County Superior Court judge has ruled that the Michigan-based company Labor Law Poster Service violated the law nearly 600,000 times by sending misleading solicitations to Washington businesses. The decision came after Attorney General Bob Ferguson pursued legal action against the company's owner, Joseph Fata. Judge Sandra Widlan granted a summary judgment without a trial, finding that the mailers were deceptive and in violation of the Consumer Protection Act.
Ferguson's lawsuit aims to secure full restitution with interest for affected Washingtonians and seeks civil penalties for each deceptive letter sent. "Small business owners work hard to follow the law," Ferguson stated. "This judgment shows the incredible scale of this scam operation."
The lawsuit is part of Ferguson's Small Business Protection Initiative, which has recovered millions for businesses targeted by scams. The case remains pending against other co-owners, with penalties yet to be determined.
Labor Law Poster Service allegedly exploited workplace poster requirements by sending letters resembling government communications to small businesses, pressuring them into buying unnecessary products. Despite previous legal actions and penalties exceeding $1.2 million, including a 2016 court order barring such practices, the company continued its activities under various names.
The Fata brothers have faced similar lawsuits in other states like Tennessee and Arizona, resulting in significant judgments and penalties.
For those who suspect being targeted by scams like this one, complaints can be filed with the Attorney General’s Office online or via their toll-free number.