A Maine judge has upheld a jury verdict that awarded $7.3 million in damages to a businessman who has accused a law firm of causing him emotional distress.

Peter Redman, of Old Orchard Beach, had hired Portland-based law firm of Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer and Nelson to represent his interest in a family business dispute with his brother over control of the now-defunct Northern Mattress and Furniture Co. in Fairfield.

Redman was banned from the family business over a sexual harassment claim that he said was orchestrated by his brother, who wanted to wrest control of the business.

Thereafter Redman had approached Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer & Nelson to defend his interest and vindicate him.

However, the firm acted negligently and Redman accused it of working against him and causing him emotional distress.

Last summer a Cumberland County jury awarded a $7.3 million verdict against the firm.

The firm appealed the verdict, contending that the evidence produced by Redman did not support his claim.

The Maine Superior Court Justice Thomas E. Humphrey, however, has dismissed the firm's motion for a new trial.

Redman, who now operates Priceless Mattress & Furniture in Augusta, Maine, could not be reached for comments.

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