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Blas v. Guam Customs & Quarantine Agency,  }{\fs20\insrsid536018 Opinion\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid536018 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid2110793 13}}}{\fs20\insrsid536018  of 19
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 RICARDO C. BLAS}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Petitioner-Appellee/Cross-Appellant}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 GUAM CUSTOMS & QUARANTINE AGENCY,
\par GOVERNMENT OF GUAM
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Respondent-Appellant/Cross-Appellee}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par ______________________
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 RICARDO C. BLAS}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 GUAM CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION,
\par GOVERNMENT OF GUAM, and}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Respondent-Appellant/Cross-Appellee}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 GUAM CUSTOMS & QUARANTINE AGENCY,
\par GOVERNMENT OF GUAM,
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Real Party in Interest.}{\insrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Supreme Court Case No. CVA98-028
\par Superior Court Case Nos. SP0159-95 and SP0048-96}{\insrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 OPINION}{\insrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Filed: April 5, 2000}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Cite as: 2000 Guam 12}{\insrsid2110793 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and submitted on August 12, 1999
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam
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\par }{\ul\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Appearing for the Petitioner-Appellee/
\par Cross-Appellant:}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par G. Patrick Civille, Esq.
\par Ching Civille Calvo & Tang
\par A Professional Corporation
\par Suite 400, GCIC Bldg.
\par 414 W. Soledad Ave.
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Appearing for the Respondents-Appellants/}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par }{\ul\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Cross-Appellees:}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par Jocelyn M. Roden, Esq.
\par Assistant Attorney General
\par Office of the Attorney General
\par Suite 2-200E Judicial Ctr. Bldg.
\par 120 W. O}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Brien Dr.
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}\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 BEFORE: PETER C. SIGUENZA, Chief Justice (Acting)}{\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018 
The Chief Justice recused himself from deciding this matter.  Justice Siguenza, as the senior member of the panel, was designated as the Acting Chief Justice.}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , ALBERTO C. LAMORENA, III, Desi
gnated Justice, and J. BRADLEY KLEMM, Justice }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Pro Tempore}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 .}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 SIGUENZA, C.J.:}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [1]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Two separate Petitions for Judicial Review of decisions of the Civil Service Commission}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 were filed by Ricardo Blas (hereinafter 
}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Blas}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ).}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
After evidentiary hearings and argument on the matter were conducted, the Superior Court of Guam issued its Decision and Order from which the parties appeal. Upon consideration of the law and facts of the case, we find that (1) Blas}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 claim was an adverse action appealable to the Civil Service Commission, (2) that he was a permanent classified employee entitled to such an appeal, (3) that the Civil Service Commission erred in reconsidering its prior decisio
n on the matter, and (4) that Blas is entitled to the award of attorney}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s fees.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Therefore, we reverse in part and affirm in part the decision of the lower court.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 FACTS}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [2]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab In February 1975, Ricardo C. Blas was selected for the classified position of Cus
toms and Quarantine Officer I with the Customs Division of the Department of Commerce, a Government of Guam agency.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
In that same year, Blas completed his probationary period and became a permanent classified employee of the government of Guam.}{\insrsid536018 
\par }{\insrsid2110793\charrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [3]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab In October 1994, the Customs Division was separated from the Department of Commerce and became the}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Customs and Quarantine Agency, Government of Guam (hereinafter }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Customs}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ). The first Acting Director of the agency was Joe Diego (hereinafter }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Diego}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
), who had served in that capacity from October 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Immediately upon his appointment, Diego began the recruitment and selection process for the position of Chief Customs Officer.}{\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018  The statute provides:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018  
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 There is hereby established within the government of Guam, the Customs and Quarantine Ag
ency (the Agency). The Director of the Agency, who is the head of the Agency, shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature. The senior ranking classified Customs & Quarantine Officer within the Agency shall act as the 
Deputy Director of the Agency with all the powers of such a deputy but without additional compensation. The compensation of the Director of the Agency and of such Director's personal secretary shall be set by the Civil Service Commission.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018  
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 SOURCE: Added by P.L. 22\_112:2 (4/11/94). Amended by P.L. 23\_3:1. (3/30/95). 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 NOTES, REFERENCES, AND ANNOTATIONS
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 COMMENT: The amendment made to this section changed the words, "senior classified employee" to "senior ranking classified Customs & Quarantin
e Officer" to make sure that the Deputy Director was always such an Officer and not, by reason of time in service, another employee of the agency who was not a sworn officer. 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid536018 Title 5 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid536018 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid536018  3127 (1996) and Comments.}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  In accordance with Department of Administration (hereinafter }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 DOA}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ) procedures, the position of Chief Customs Officer was announced, applic
ations accepted, and a list of eligible candidates was compiled.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The list of eligible candidates contained four names including Blas and another Customs Officer, Peter San Nicolas (hereinafter }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 San Nicolas}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ).}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 On December 29, 1994 interviews for the position were conducted and on the following day Blas was selected to fill the position.
\par }{\b\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [4]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab However, on January 3, 1995, incoming Acting Director John Quinata (hereinafter }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Quinata}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
) gave Blas a letter advising him that he was being terminated from the position of Chief Customs Officer and reinstated to his former position 
as Customs Officer Supervisor. On January 23, 1995, Blas filed a Notice of Appeal with the Civil Service Commission (hereinafter }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 CSC}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ) claiming that his termination an
d reinstatement to a lesser position constituted an adverse action. Customs objected to the appeal arguing that, as a promotional probationary employee, Blas did not have appeal rights.
\par }{\b\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [5]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab On April 27, 1995, the CSC held a Preliminary Hearing and ruled th
at it lacked jurisdiction to hear the matter as an adverse action ostensibly because Blas was not a permanent classified employee.}{\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018 This was the lower court}{\fs20\insrsid8460733 '}{\fs20\insrsid536018 
s conclusion and neither party has disputed the contention that the CSC declined to entertain the adverse action on that basis.}}}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
However, the CSC decided that it could hear the matter by way of an investigative hearing pursuant to its authority to administer the merit system and investigate personnel actions. The CSC issued a written Ruling and Order m
emorializing this order on May 4, 1995.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [6]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
On May 18 and 19, 1995, the CSC conducted an Investigative Hearing and received the testimony of five witnesses, including the Director of DOA, the Administrative Officer, the outgoing and incoming Directors of Customs, and San Nicolas.}{\insrsid2110793  
}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
The CSC issued its Decision and Order on May 25, 1995, and made several findings as it related to the announcement for Chief Customs Officer, the recruitment process and the subsequent appointment of Blas. The CSC had concluded that Blas}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  appointment was proper and that there were no legal, factual, or equitable grounds to justify rescinding the appointment. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [7]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab On June 2, 1995, Blas filed a Petition for Judicial Review, SP0159-95, asking the court to vacate and set aside the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s ruling of May 4, 1995. On June 26, 1995, Customs filed a Petition for Writ of Review, SP0182-95, seeking review of the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s ruling of May 25, 1995.}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [8]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab On July 25, 1995, Customs filed a Request for Reconsideration of the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s May 25, 199
5 Decision and Order. On September 7, 1995, the CSC ruled that reasonable and compelling grounds existed to grant the request; and on January 11, 1996, the CSC conducted a hearing on Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Request for Reconsideration. Two witnesses testified at the hear
ing, San Nicolas and Quinata. On February 13, 1996, the CSC reconsidered its May 25, 1995 decision and issued an Amended Decision and Order which ordered that all candidates on the certified eligibility list be re-interviewed and that if no selection was 
made from that list, Customs could re-announce the position of Chief Customs Officer in accordance with the current eligibility requirements.}{\cs15\i\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\i\fs20\insrsid536018 See}{\fs20\insrsid536018  Note 2, }{\i\fs20\insrsid536018 supra}{
\fs20\insrsid536018 .  It appears that Blas would not qualify for the position of Chief Customs Officer under the current eligibility requirements.}}}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [9]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab On February 28, 1996, Blas filed a Petition for Writ of Review, SP0048-96, to set aside the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s decision of February 13, 1996. On March 2, 1996, Blas filed his own motion for reconsideration to the CSC of its Amended Decision and Order. This motion was denied by the CSC.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [10]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab The Superior Court cases were consolidated for purposes of briefing and the lower court issued its Decision and Order on October 27, 1998.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The lower court held that (1) the CSC was correct in determining that Blas could not pursue the matter as an adverse action appeal; (2) that the matter was properly handled as a CSC investigation of a personnel actio
n; (3) that Blas was a permanent classified employee and not an original probationary employee and therefore entitled to job protection rights including the CSC investigation; (4) that the CSC exceeded its jurisdiction in granting Customs}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  motion for reconsideration; and (5) that Blas was entitled to an award of attorneys}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 fees and reinstatement to the position of Chief Customs Officer.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [11]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Customs, Appellant and Cross-Appellee herein, filed the instant appeal challenging the lower court}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s Judgment on Petitioner}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s Petition for Judicial Review and Petition for Writ of Review.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Blas, Appellee and Cross-Appellant herein, challenges the lower court}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s determination that the CSC lacked jurisdiction to entertain the matter as an appeal of an adverse action.}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 DISCUSSION}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [12]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Jurisdiction of this court is not in dispute and is obtained pursuant to Title 7 GCA }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 3107 and 3108 (1994). The parties have framed and alleged the issues on appeal involving the interpretation of statutes. Issues of statutory interpretation are reviewed }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 de novo}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 .}{
\i\insrsid2110793  }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 People v. Quichocho}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 1997 Guam 13, }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  3. In addition, an agency's interpretation of a statute is a question of law reviewed }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 de novo}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 . }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Ada v. Guam Telephone Authority}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 1999 Guam 10, }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  10 (citing }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Conlon v. United States Dep't of Labor}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 76 F.3d 271, 274 (9th Cir. 1996)). In reviewing an agency's c
onstruction of a statute, the court must reject those constructions that are contrary to clear congressional intent or frustrate the policy that Congress sought to implement. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 . (citing 
}{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Chevron, U.S.A., Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Inc}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ., 467 U.S. 837, 843 n.9, 104 S.Ct. 2778, 2781 (1984); }
{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Trustees of the Cal. State Univ. v. Riley}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 74 F. 3d 960, 963 (9th Cir. 1996); }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Citizens for Clean Air v. EPA}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
, 959 F. 2d 839, 844 (9th Cir. 1992)). However, if a statute is silent or ambiguous on a particular 
point, the court may defer to the agency's interpretation; but that review is limited to whether the agency's conclusion is based on a permissible construction of the statute. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
. (citations omitted).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 I.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [13]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab We first address the issue on c
ross-appeal -- whether the trial court erred in finding that the CSC lacked jurisdiction to entertain Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 claim as an adverse action. There are identified three types of adverse actions that the CSC has a statutorily prescribed duty to address: }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
It shall hear appeals from the adverse actions taken to suspend, demote or dismiss an employee from the classified service if such right of appeal to the Commission is established in the personnel rules governing the employee.}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Title 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4403(b) (1996). There is a general framework of procedures for the CSC to follow as it pertains to the disposition of an adverse action:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 4406. Adverse Action Procedures and Appeals.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
An employee in the classified service who is dismissed, demoted, or suspended shall be given immediate notice of the action, together with a specific statement of t
he charges upon which such action is based in the manner required by Article 2 of this Chapter. Copies thereof shall be filed with the Civil Service Commission and, if applicable, with the government entity charged with hearing his appeal under the person
n
el rules governing his appointment not later than the working day next following the effective date of the action. In no event may an employee in the classified service be given the notice and statement of the charges required by this Section after the si
xtieth (60) day after management knew or should have known the facts or events which form the alleged basis for such action. Any action brought by management in violation of this Section is barred and any decision based on such action is void.}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 While an emp
loyee's appeal is pending, he may be suspended by the department, instrumentality or agency. The Civil Service Commission or appropriate entity may order the employee reinstated to active duty during pendency of the appeal.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The employee within twenty (20)
 days of effective date of the action, may appeal to the Commission or appropriate entity by filing his written answer to the charges against him. The Commission or appropriate entity shall then set the matter for hearing as expeditiously as possible. The
 
employee or his representative shall be given the opportunity to inspect any documents relevant to the action which would be admissible in evidence at the hearing, and to depose, interview or direct written interrogatories to other employees having knowle
d
ge of the acts or omissions upon which the dismissal, demotion or suspension is based. The Commission or appropriate entity may sustain, modify or revoke the action taken. The decision of the Commission or appropriate entity shall be final but subject to 
judicial review.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Title 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4406 (1996).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [14]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Although Guam law has no statutory definition of an adverse action; there are rules that have been promulgated that provide the criteria upon which an adverse acti
on must be predicated. Specifically, the rules of procedure for the CSC and the Rules and Regulations of the Department of Administration provide:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 A department /agency head may remove an employee for such misconduct which affects the efficiency of the service.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The authorized causes for adverse actions include but are not limited to the following:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 A.\tab Fraud in securing appointment;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 B.\tab Refusal, failure or inability to perform prescribed duties and responsibilities;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 C.\tab Insubordination;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 D.\tab 
Intoxication while on duty; unauthorized use of alcohol, narcotics, and/or dangerous drugs while on duty or while on the premises of any department or agency;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 E.\tab Unauthorized absence;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 F.\tab Conviction of a felony or a serious misdemeanor;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 G.\tab Discourteous treatment to the public or other employees;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 H.\tab Political activity prohibited by law;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi1440\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 I.\tab Misuse or theft of government property;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 J.\tab Refusal to take and subscribe to any oath or affirmation which is required by law in connection with employment;}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 K.\tab Acts prohibited by Section 9102, 4 GCA relating to strikes against the government;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 L.\tab 
Other misconduct which impairs the efficiency of the services either on or off duty which is of such nature as to bring discredit to the department or agency;}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 M.\tab Other misconduct not specifically listed which impairs the efficiency of the service.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Department of Administration Personnel Rules and Regulations, Rule 11D.3; CSC 105.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [15]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab As with all cases of statutory interpretation, we begin with the statute itself. A plain reading of 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 4403(b) unambiguously provides that the CSC entertain an appeal of an adverse action; that is, either a dismissal, demotion or suspension, of a person who is in the classified service. This provision, read 
together with the authorized causes for adverse actions, could lead to the conclusion that any demotion, suspension, or dismissal not predicated upon any of the proscribed actions of the employee is improper.}{\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
\chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018 It should be noted that bases for an adverse a
ction include, but are not limited by, the enumerated items. }{\i\fs20\insrsid536018 See}{\fs20\insrsid536018  Rule 11D.3.}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 The CSC may then set aside and declare null and void any personnel action that was taken without compliance with the personnel laws or rules. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Title 4 GCA }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4403(d) (1996). }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [16]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab In this case, the position of the CSC was that because there was no malfeasance or incompetence by Blas, there was no basis for an adverse action to be appealed}{
\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018 
The parties agreed that the personnel action upon Blas was not the result of some malfeasance or incompetence or some other fault of Blas.}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 . We cannot agree. The CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s duty is to ensure that any of}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 the three specific personnel actions against a member of the classified service was justi
fied and in accordance with the personnel laws and rules.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 An employee in the classified service is afforded certain job protections, not the least of which is the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s review of management}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s imposition of an adverse action on the basis of discipline or, in the case of}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
an employee}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s termination, for cause. If indeed Blas is a member of the protected classified service then the personnel action such as the one that occurred here, characterized either as a dismissal or demotion from the position of Chief Cu
stoms Officer, should not be beyond the reach of the body tasked with the duty to ensure compliance with the protections afforded to members of the classified service. The clear legislative policy reflected in the Civil Service Laws would be frustrated if
 the court were to find that Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  suspension, demotion or dismissal for reasons other than discipline or cause would be beyond the review of the CSC.}{\insrsid2110793  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [17]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Thus, we agree with Blas that his situation, although not brought about by malfeasance or incompete
nce on the job, should nonetheless have been considered an adverse action for which he should have been entitled to appeal to the CSC. Therefore, contrary to the lower court}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s decision, we hold that a member of the classified service against whom managemen
t has taken the personnel action of suspension, demotion or dismissal is entitled to appeal the action to the CSC as an adverse action even if the action was not predicated upon some malfeasance or incompetence on the job by the employee. }{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 II.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [18]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
We now turn to what seems to be the dispositive issue of this case: whether Blas was a member of the classified service and, therefore, entitled to appeal the adverse action. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 Exec. Order No. 83-25 Attachment }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  14.14. The CSC had determined that Blas}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  adverse action appeal was not proper because his elevation to Chief Customs Officer was a probationary promotional appointment. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Appellee}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s Excerpts of Record 28 (Decision and Order, Civil Service Comm}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
n, dated 5/4/95). Customs argues that the Adverse Action Rules and Regulations do not apply to probationary employees serving an original appointment. It contends that Blas was originally appointed to the position of Chief Customs Of
ficer and was on probation at the time he was removed from that office. Blas counters that he was promoted to the position of Chief Customs Officer, rather than originally appointed, and that any probationary period he may have been subject to was complet
ed back in 1975 (when he had initially entered government service).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [19]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Thus, the question becomes whether Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 assumption of the position of Chief Customs Officer was an original appointment, promotion, or a promotion with a term of probation. This is so because the parties}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 dispute centers upon a specific statute which provides, in relevant part:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4106. Personnel Rules. }{
\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The personnel rules provided for in }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4105 of
 this Chapter shall provide procedures for their employment of persons on the basis of merit, and shall include an orderly and systematic method of recruitment and the establishment of qualified lists for employment purposes. They shall provide for a }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 probationary period of not less than three (3) nor more than twelve (12) months for all original appointments}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
, during which time the employee may be dismissed at any time without right of appeal and without right of being given reasons or charges in writing. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Title 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4106 (1996) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [20]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Similar to the adverse action issue above, there does not appear to be a definition, statutory or otherwise, for the term }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 original appointment}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 .}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 However, we are convinced that the term, as used in the statute, and in the entire scheme of the personnel laws of the government of Guam, refers to an employee who fi
rst enters government service. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [21]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
First, the lower court had determined that the plain meaning and common usage of the terms led it to conclude that this provision was directed towards those individuals first entering government service. We agree with t
he lower court; and this rationale is not the only one upon which we can find that original appointment pertains to such a circumstance. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [22]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab An employee who has successfully completed his probationary term upon entrance into the government of Guam is aff
orded the job protections of the personnel laws and rules, i.e., he or she attains permanent status into the classified service. The statute itself prescribes that, unless and until the time the employee completes his or her probationary term, he or she c
an be dismissed at any time without the right of appeal nor of the right to be given reasons or charges in writing. A probationary employee may be dismissed without a hearing or judicially cognizable good cause.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See Swift v. County of Placer}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 200 Cal. Rptr. 181 (Cal. Ct. App.1984).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [23]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
However, a permanent employee who experiences an upward movement to a position with a higher maximum salary within the government of Guam does not lose the protections of his or her permanent status. It is true
 that the personnel rules do articulate that there may be circumstances when a period of probation may be required as part of a promotion. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 Department of Administration Personnel Rules and Regulations Rule 7.50.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 However, even in the situation where the
 promoted employee fails to satisfy a probationary period, he or she still enjoys job protection rights. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Department of Administration Personnel Rules and Regulations Rule 14.02. }{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [24]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab The protections that the civil service laws afford a member of the classified service would disappear if we accept Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  view that Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 assumption of the position of Chief Customs Officer was an original appointment rather than a promotion. There would be no incentive for a permanent member of the classified service to
 accept a movement to a position with a higher maximum salary when the due process of the personnel laws would disappear and he could be terminated at the whim and caprice of management. Such a construction would lead to absurd and illogical results and w
ould be in contravention of the primary purpose of the civil service laws which is to provide due process protection to members of the classified service of the government of Guam.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [25]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab In addition, in the case of}{\insrsid2110793  }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Rasmussen v. Board of Supervisors of Erie County}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
, 25 N.Y.S. 2d 322, 323 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 1941), the court there was faced with a statute similar to 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 4106.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The statute in that case provided that }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
[e]very original appointment to or employment in any position in the classified service shall be for a probationary term of three months. . .}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  There the court observed a clear distinction between an }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 appointment}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  and a }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 promotion}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  in the state}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s civil service law after a review of many of the sections of the Civil Service Law. }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  The court reasoned that the fact that the law makes so many provisions for }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 appointment,}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 employment}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  or }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 promotion}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  indicates that the legislature, in limiting probationary terms to appointments or employments, intentionally excluded promotions from a probationary term. }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 839. Similarly, in this case, nowhere in the text of the statute above is there a mandatory imposition of the probationary term upon a promotion.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [26]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Moreover, the CSC itself determined that Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 assumption of the Chief Customs Officer position was a promotion.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Within the current record, the court below had found that there was no probationary requirement in the Pe
rsonnel Action form nor in the Job Announcement. After our own review of the record, we agree with the trial court}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s findings.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [27]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Finally, Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  reliance}{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Swift v. County of Placer}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 200 Cal. Rptr. 181 (Cal. Ct. App. 1984) is misplaced. In }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Swift}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , the employee was hired as a correctional officer with the Placer County Sheriff}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s Department. His hiring included a six month probationary period which he completed.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Almost a year after his initial hiring, he was hired from an open eligible hiring list and appo
inted a deputy sheriff. He was informed that he was subject to a twelve month probationary term; however, eleven months into his new position he received Notice of Rejection during Probation.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
The employee argued that he had already completed his probation
ary requirements and was entitled to an administrative hearing as a result of obtaining permanent status. The court proceeded to divine the legislative intent of the statutes that had imposed the probationary period at issue and decided that the legislatu
re had intended that all employees who are working as peace officers were required to serve the twelve month probation. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 184-185. The court held that Swift}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s initial employment as a correctional officer did not serve to lessen the probationary period of twelve months because a correctional officer is not a peace officer. }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Thus, being a newly hired peace officer, he had to serve a twelve month probation; and as a probationary employee he could be dismissed without cause and without the administrative
 remedies available to permanent employees so long as the rejection was not premised on a violation of his constitutional or other basic rights. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 185. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [28]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab As distinguished with this case, Swift was not promoted to his position.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
Swift had assumed a position for which there had been a statutorily prescribed}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 probationary period for a specific job function. Blas, on the other hand, had no such probationary imp
ediment to the position he had competed for nor did the Job Announcement or Personnel Action forms inform him that he would be on probation.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [29]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab A new Department of Administration Rule now specifically and clearly includes a requirement of a new probationary period for a permanent employee who is promoted. }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Department of Administration Personnel Rules and Regulations Rule 4.602(c)(1)(a)}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
(Eff. Apr. 1, 1997). Thus, if there had been any doubt as to whether or not a term of probation is included with a pr
omotion, such was removed by the promulgation of the new rule. However, a rule with such clarity was not in effect at the time of this case; nor does it affect our holding that such an employee still retains the due process rights afforded by the personne
l laws.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [30]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
Therefore, we hold that Blas was promoted to the position of Chief Customs Officer without a probation limitation and, that as a permanent member of the classified service, the administrative remedies outlined throughout should have been availa
ble to him. In addition, we find that}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
the hearings conducted by the CSC, albeit termed an investigative hearing, allowed the parties to fully address all the issues relevant to the personnel action against Blas.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 III.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [31]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab The CSC had initially determined that Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  appointment was proper and that there had been no legitimate grounds for rescinding his appointment. Then, upon motion for and reconsideration of its order, the CSC essentially reversed itself.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Our review of the record leads us to determine that the CSC acted improperly.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [32]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has observed that }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 It has been uniformly held that rehearings before administrative bodies are addressed to their own discretion. Only a showing of the clearest abuse of discretion can sustain an exception to that rule.}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Reese Sales Co. v. Hardin}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 458 F.2d 183, 186 (9}{
\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 th}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Cir. 1972) (citations omitted). After a survey of Guam statutes, ordinances, or rules, no such authority exists that either permits or restricts the CSC to rehear its final decision.
}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 However, the Appellate Division, in the case of}{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Guam Department of Public Safety v. Guam Civil Service Commission Board}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
, 1982 WL 30789 (D. Guam App. Sept. 8, 1982), had occasion to consider the issue of whether the CSC had the power to rehear its final decision in an employee}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s case.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The court promulgated a three-part inquiry before the power of administrative reconsideration can be exercised.
 The court held that (1) there must be good cause shown; (2) it must be reasonably exercised; and (3) the petition seeking its exercise must be made with reasonable diligence. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at *2.}
{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [33]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab The Appellate Division placed great reliance on a case decided by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See Handlon v. Town of Belleville}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 71 A.2d 624 (N.J. 1950).}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 There the court observed:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Barring statutory regulation, the power [of reconsideration] may be in
voked by administrative agencies to serve the ends of essential justice and the policy of the law. But there must be reasonable diligence. The denial to such tribunals of the authority to correct error and in justice [sic] and to revise its judgments for 
good and sufficient cause would run counter to the public interest.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The function cannot be denied except by legislative fiat; and there is none such here.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The power of correction and revision, the better to serve the statutory policy, is of the very nature of such governmental agencies.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
It involves the exercise of a sound discretion, controlled by the statutory considerations and the dictates of justice; the action taken must rest on reasonable grounds and be in no sense arbitrary.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 
627-628. (emphasis added). We herewith adopt the three-part inquiry and rationale as articulated by the Appellate Division as the test for whether the CSC should grant a motion to reconsider a final decision and apply it to the instant case.}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [34]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab In this case, Customs argues that good cause for the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s reconsideration of its May 25, 1995 decision was that it misapprehended a point of law in regards to the rights, under the Merit Promotion Rule 10b, of}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
San Nicolas, a competing candidate for the position of Chief Customs Officer. Moreover, Customs argues that the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s decision to reconsider its prior decision was reasonable under the circumstances and that Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  request for reconsideration was timely made.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [35]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Examining the decision which was overturned, the CSC had made detailed findings after evidentiary hearings were conducted on the matter.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 The Decision and Order included a great deal of discussion as it pertained to the circumstances of San Nicolas and his failure to interview for the position of Chief Customs Officer.}{\insrsid2110793  }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Appellee}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s Excerpts of Record 28, Exhibit 10, Civil Service Commission Decision and Order, May 25, 1995. Customs argues a misapprehension of the facts and law; yet, this contention is difficult to believe when what is exceedingl
y evident is that a great deal of time had been spent discussing the situation of San Nicolas and the propriety of then-director Diego}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s decision to proceed with filling the position of Chief Customs Officer.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 In stark contrast to the Decision and Order of May 25, 1995, the CSC}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s Amended Decision and Order of February 13, 1996, provides no justification other than the conclusory statement that it found San Nicolas was unfairly denied the right to be interviewed and that he was deprived of an equal employment opportunity. }{
\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 See}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  Appellant}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s Excerpts of Record 28.}{\cs15\super\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid536018 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid536018 
In addition, the record does not indicate that San Nicolas himself had filed for some review with the CSC.  There was no outstanding complaint that was advanced by San Nicolas before the CSC.}}}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [36]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Finally, we cannot agree that Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  motion for reconsideration was timely made. Customs}{
\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  cites as authority the case of }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Argonaut Insurance Co. v. Workmen}{\i\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s Compensation Appeals Board}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 , 55 Cal. Rptr. 810 (Cal. Ct. App. 1967), for the proposition that sixty days is a reasonable time within which to bring its motion for reconsideration before the CSC. However, an important}{
\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 factual distinction exists between that case and the present one.}{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 In }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Argonaut}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
, there was a specific period of time within which to make a motion for reconsideration. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 813. The court there found that the Workmen}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{
\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s Compensation Board still retained jurisdiction to re-open the case, by virtue of the fact that statute allowed the Board to maintain jurisdiction for fi
ve years after the date of injury, as opposed to a reconsideration of its order, a motion for which must be brought within sixty days of the rendition of decision. }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Id.}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  at 814-815.}{
\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Here, there is no statutory authority delimiting the period of time within 
which to bring a Motion to Reconsider let alone the re-opening of the matter after a final decision has been rendered. Thus, rather than support Customs}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 contention that its motion was diligently made, the }{\i\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Argonaut}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  case merely implies that treatment of the
 matter was a re-opening of the case, rather than a reconsideration of its decision, and that because of the agency}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
s five year jurisdiction in such cases the motion to re-open the case was diligently made. To the contrary, we hold that the nearly sixty day delay in filing its Motion for Reconsideration is indicative that the motion was not diligently made.}{
\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 IV.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [37]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab 
Guam law provides for the recovery of reasonable attorneys fees to an employee who retains an attorney to represent him in an adverse action. The specific statute provides, in relevant part:}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4406.1. Attorney Fe
es and Costs on Appeal.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
If an employee in the classified service retains an attorney to represent him or her before the Civil Service Commission or other applicable administrative body to challenge an adverse action brought against the empl
oyee, and the employee prevails in whole or in part before the Civil Service Commission or other applicable administrative body by either receiving a favorable decision from the Commission or body or a withdrawal of the adverse action by the department, a
g
ency or instrumentality that brought the adverse action, the employee shall be awarded and paid costs, if any, and reasonable attorney's fees because of such attorney representation from funds of the department, agency or instrumentality in which the empl
oyee was employed.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Title 4 GCA }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  4406.1 (1996).}{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [38]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Because we find that Blas}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  claim was the appeal of an adverse action and 
that he ultimately prevails, we hold that he is entitled to recoup attorneys}{\insrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  fees as ordered by the court below. }{\insrsid2110793 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 CONCLUSION}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tqc\tx4680\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 [39]}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 \tab Based on the foregoing, we }{\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 REVERSE}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 
 that part of the trial court}{\insrsid8460733\charrsid2110793 '}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 s decision and order finding that Blas was not entitled to prosecute his claim as an adverse action appeal to the Civil Service Commission, and }{
\b\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 AFFIRM}{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793  the decision in all other respects.}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 ALBERTO C. LAMORENA, III\tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 J. BRADLEY KLEMM
\par Designated Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid2110793  }{\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 Justice Pro Tempore}{\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid2110793 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2110793 {\insrsid536018\charrsid2110793 PETER C. SIGUENZA
\par Chief Justice
\par (Acting)
\par }}