Fla. Judge Dismisses RICO Claims Against Trial Lawyer Willie Gary

Corrected: Finding that a former legal secretary for his firm failed to establish either a pattern of criminal activity or direct injury, a Florida judge has dismissed two counts of racketeering in a lawsuit she filed against litigator Willie Gary.

The Martin County suit, which alleged rape as well as other claimed misconduct, could have allowed plaintiff Jillian Need to collect treble damages if she had proven her allegations that he violated the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act, reports the Daily Business Review. Five counts remain against Gary were not dismissed, including allegations of mental distress and sexual harassment.

Gary is expected to seek reimbursement from Need of more than $100,000 in legal fees.

"We are thrilled with the ruling," says his attorney, Michael Pike, of Burman Critton Luttier & Coleman in West Palm Beach.

The article doesn't include any comment from Need or her counsel.

Hat tip: Am Law Daily.

Earlier coverage:

ABAJournal.com: "Lawyer Willie Gary Fights Rape Claim With Sex Tapes of Accuser"

Updated June 23 to include corrected information from the Daily Business Review regarding claims against Gary.