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Apana v.  Rosario,}{\fs20\insrsid12020498  2000 Guam 7, Opinion\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid12020498 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid6121195 9}}}{\fs20\insrsid12020498  of 12
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 JAMES K. APANA, JR., dba APANA CONSTRUCTION}{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
\par  Plaintiff\_Appellant
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 vs.}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 DANIEL B. ROSARIO, dba DAN ROSARIO & ASSOCIATES,
\par CONTINENTAL INSURANCE COMPANY, JOHN Y. SALAS
\par AND ANTONIA SALAS}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
\par Defendants\_Appellees}{\insrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Supreme Court Case No. CVA97\_046
\par Superior Court Case No. CV1827-92}{\insrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Filed: January 18, 2000}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Cite as:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 2000 Guam 7}{\insrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Submitted on the briefs August 15, 1999
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid6121195 
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\par }\pard \qj \fi-5040\li5040\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin5040\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\ul\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Appearing for Plaintiff\_Appellant}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 :}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
\tab }{\insrsid6121195 \tab \tab }{\ul\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Appearing for Defendants\_Appellees}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 :
\par Thomas M. Tarpley, Jr., Esq.\tab \tab \tab \tab Raymond T. Johnson, II, Esq.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
\par Law Offices of Thomas M. Tarpley, Jr.\tab \tab Law Offices of Raymond T. Johnson, II
\par Suite 201, American Life Building\tab \tab \tab 388 South Marine Dr., Suite 202
\par 137 Murray Blvd.\tab \tab \tab \tab \tab Tamuning, Guam 96911
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910}{\insrsid12020498 
\par }{\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 BEFORE:}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 RICHARD H. BENSON, Chief Justice (Acting)}{\cs15\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12020498 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 
The full-time Justices, including the Chief Justice, recused themselves from deciding this matter.  Justice Benson, as the senior member of the panel was designated as the Acting Chief Justice.}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
, JOAQUIN C. ARRIOLA, SR., and ANDREW M. GAYLE, Justices Pro Tempore.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 PER CURIAM:}{\b\insrsid12020498 
\par }{\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [1]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Plaintiff-Appellant Apana appeals the trial court}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s decision which ruled that Plaintiff-Appellant fi
led an untimely mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien and precluded Plaintiff-Appellant}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s claim upon a payment bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 We reverse in part and affirm in part the trial court}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s decision and remand for further proceedings.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND }{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [2]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab In October 1991, Guam Housing Corporation approved the application for a mortgage home}{\insrsid6121195  
}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 loan for John and Antonia Salas (collectively hereinafter as }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Salas
}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ).}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 On March 4, 1992, Salas exe
cuted a contract with Defendant, Daniel B. Rosario dba Dan Rosario & Associates (}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Rosario}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ), to construct a residential home on the Salas property.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The contract price for the construction of the home was $75,000, with periodic draws of $15,000.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
The periodic draws were to be paid in accordance with a schedule of completion for the various stages of the construction. }{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [3]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab On March 7, 1992, Rosario subcontracted with Plaintiff-Appellant James K. Apana, Jr. (}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Apana}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
) to do the actual construction for $60,000.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Rosario signed the contract as the }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 owner}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  and Apana as the }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 contractor.}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  On March 17, 1992, Guam Housing paid $13,500 to Rosario, retaining $1,500 of the first draw.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
On March 18, 1992, Rosario paid Apana $10,000 of the total $12,000 owed to him.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The next payment from Rosario to Apana was due on}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
April 9, 1992, after inspection of the last increment of work performed.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Rosario failed to make payment to Apana.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [4]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 
Four (4) days after the scheduled inspection, on April 13, 1992, Apana stopped construction of the home because it learned that Guam Housing would not release further draws until Rosario was bonded.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
At that time, Rosario owed Apana $15,000 }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 67 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 $2,000 from the first draw, $12,000 for completion of the second draw, and $1,000 from the third draw.}{\insrsid6121195  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [5]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab On April 16, 1992, Rosario and Salas entered into a second contract regarding the construction of the home. The contract price under this agreement was $61,500.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 This reflected the original amount of $75,000 less the value of the work completed, which was $13,500.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
On April 29, 1992, Continental Insurance Company (Continental) issued a payment bond to Rosario.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Since Rosario had not yet paid Apana, Apana brought a claim against the bond in the amount of $15,000.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Thereafter, Rosario failed to complete the project, and Continental, as surety, hired Far East Builders Co., Ltd. (Far East)}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
to complete the construction of the home for fifty seven thousand dollars ($57,000).}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [6]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab At this time, Rosario}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s whereabouts are unknown.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Default judgments, which remain unsatisfied, were entered against Rosario in favor of both Apana and Continental.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Apana filed a Complaint for Breach of Contract, Claim of Bond, and Foreclosure of Mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s Lien on December 9, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Both sides made summary judgment motions in which then Judge, now Justice Siguenza, issued a Decision and Order, and subsequently a Revised Decision and Order, which denied Defendants-Appellees}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12020498 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 
Continental, John Y. and Antonia Salas are hereinafter referred to as }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12020498 Appellees}{\fs20\insrsid12020498 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12020498 .}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  motion, denied Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s motion for summary foreclosure and granted Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s motion as to the liability of Continental as the surety.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [7]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab On appeal to the District Court of Guam, Appellate Division, the court reversed the summary judgment in favor of Apana and remanded the case for further proceedings.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Apana v. Rosario, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 No. CV1837-92, 1995 WL 604354 *3 (D. Guam App. Div. Sept. 29, 1995).}{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
The District Court directed the trial cour
t to determine two issues of fact: (1) whether the default preceded the execution of the surety contract, and (2) if the default occurred after the execution of the surety contract, whether any preexisting obligation made such default more probable. }{
\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [8]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab On remand the lower court found that the default occurred before the execution of the surety contract, thus precluding Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s claim on the payment bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 It also strictly interpreted Guam}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s mechanic lien statutes, and found that Apana filed an untimely mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien under 7 GCA section 33302(c)(1994).}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
This appeal follows.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ANALYSIS}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [9]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 
This court has jurisdiction under 7 GCA sections 3107, 3108 (1994) and 48 U.S.C. section 1424-3(d) (1984).}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 We review questions of statutory interpretation}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 de novo.}{\i\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Department of Agriculture v. Remington et. al., }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 1998 Guam 16, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  3.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [F]actual findings as to what the parties said or did are reviewed under the }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 clearly erroneous}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  standard while principles of contract interpretation applied to the facts are reviewed }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 de novo.}
{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 L.K. Comstock & Co. v. United Engineers & Constructors, Inc.,}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  880 F.2d 219, 221 (9th Cir. 1989) (citations omitted).}{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
In this case, the parties accept the factual findings of the trial court; therefore, the standard of review is }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 de novo}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 .}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 A.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\jclisttab\tx720\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Mechanic}{\b\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s Lien}{\b\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [10]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 
Apana first argues that the trial court erred in strictly construing 7 GCA sections 33302 and 33202 (1994). In its Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, the trial court stated:}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The court has previously taken the position of strictly interpreting the applicable statutes which are clear on their face.}{\insrsid6121195  
}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Although along with such an unbending interpretation seemingly harsh results may occur, the Court may only proceed within the boundaries previously set before it.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Apana v. Rosario, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 CV1827-92 (Super. Ct. Guam Aug. 20, 1997).}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [11]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Guam}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s mechanic lien statutes were adopted from California.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Therefore, Apana claims that Guam courts should follow California precedent. }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 See Roberto v. Aguon, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
519 F.2d 754, 755 (9th Cir. 1975) (California decisions, with regard to identical statues, adopted from Cal
ifornia, which predate the enactment of the statutes in Guam, are controlling on the courts of Guam). California has taken a liberal interpretation of mechanic lien statutes.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
See Industrial Asphalt, Inc. v. Garrett Corp., }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 180 Cal. App. 3d 1001, 1006-07 (1986) (holding that mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s lien legislation, being remedial, should be liberally construed).}{\insrsid6121195  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [12]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 7 GCA section 33302 provides in relevant part:}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 33302. Claim of Lien of Original Contractor or Person Performing Labor or Furnishing Material:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Time for Filing:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Notice of Completion:}{
\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Notice of Cessation:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Effect on Filing Claim of Lien:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Owner Defined:}{
\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Requisites of Claim of Lien:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Forfeiture of Lien.}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
(a) Every original contractor claiming the benefit of this Title, after the completion of his contract and within the periods of time as provided in this section, and every person, other than an original contractor, claiming the benefit of this Title, aft
er he has ceased to perform labor or furnish material, or both, for any work of improvement, and }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
before the expiration of the periods of time as provided in this section, may file for record with the Department of Land Management in which the property is situated, a claim of lien as provided in subdivision (j) of this section.}{\b\insrsid6121195 

\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (b) }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Where the work of improvement is not made pursuant to one original contract for the work of improvement but is made in whole or in part pursuant to two or more original contracts, each covering a particular portion of the work of improvement}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 , the owner may within ten (10) days after completion of any such contract for a particular portion of the work of improvement, file for record a notice of completion thereof as pr
ovided in subdivision (f) of this section. If such notice be so filed, then the original contractor under the contract covered by such notice must, within sixty (60) days after the date of filing for record such notice, and all other persons claiming the 
benefit of this Title for work done or materials furnished under such contract, must within thirty (30) days after the date of filing for record such notice, file for record his claim of lien }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
if such notice be not so filed, then the period for filing claims of lien shall be as provided in subdivision (c) of this section.}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1418\ri713\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin713\lin1418\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
(c) The owner shall within ten (10) days after the completion of the work of improvement, file for record a notice of completion as provided in subdivision (f) of this section. If such noti
ce be so filed, then, except as to any persons who were required to file a claim of lien as provided in subdivision (b) of this section, every original contractor must within sixty (60) days after the date of filing for record such notice, and every perso
n, other than an original contractor, claiming the benefit of this Title must within thirty (30) days after the date of filing for record such notice, file for record his claim of lien. }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
If such notice be not so filed, then, except as to any persons who were
 required to file for record claims of lien as provided in subdivision (b) of this section, all persons claiming the benefit of this Title shall have ninety (90) days after the completion of such work of improvement within which to file their claims of li
en.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1418\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1418\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (d) }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
In all cases, except as provided in subdivision (e) of this section, any of the following shall be deemed equivalent to a completion:}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
(1) the occupation or use of a work of improvement by the owner, or his agent, accompanied by cessation from labor thereon;}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (2) the acceptance by the owner, or his agent, of the work of improvement;}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 or }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (3) after the commencement of a work of improvement, a cessation of labor thereon for a continuous period of sixty (60) days }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
or a cessation of labor thereon for con
tinuous period of thirty (30) days or more if the owner files for record a notice of cessation as provided for in subdivision (h) of this section, except that the time for and manner of filing claims of lien where there has been such a cessation of labor 
shall be as provided in subdivisions (g) and (h) of this section.}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 . . .}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
(f) If, after the commencement of a work of improvement, there shall be a cessation of labor thereon for a continuous period of sixty (60) days, then all persons claiming the benefit 
of this Title shall within ninety (90) days from the expiration of such sixty (60) day period file for record their claims of lien}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ;}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
provided, that if, after there shall be a cessation of labor thereon for a continuous period of thirty (30) days or more, t
he owner files for record a notice of cessation as provided in subdivision (h) of this section, every original contractor must within sixty (60) days after the date of filing for record such notice, and every other person claiming the benefit of this Titl
e
 must within thirty (30) days after the date of filing for record such notice, file for record his claim of lien. Nothing contained in this subdivision shall, however, extend the time for the filing for record of a claim of lien required to be filed for r
ecord by reason of the filing of record prior to cessation of a notice of completion as provided in subsection (b).}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 7 GCA }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  33302 (1994) (emphasis added) .}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [13]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 7 GCA section 33202 provides:}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 33202. Work of Improvement:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Improvement:}{\b\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Contractor, Deemed Agent}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 .}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (a) For the purposes of this Chapter, }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 work of improvement}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 includes, but is not restricted to, the construction, alteration, addition to, or repair,
 in whole or in part, of any building, wharf, bridge, ditch, flume, aqueduct, well, tunnel, fence, machinery, railroad, or wagon road, the seeding, sodding, or planting of any lot or tract of land for landscaping purposes, the filling, leveling, or gradin
g of any lot or tract of land, the demolition of buildings, and the removal of buildings.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 (b) For the purposes of this Chapter, except as otherwise provided herein, }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 work of improvement}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  and }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 improvement }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 mean the entire structure or scheme of improvement as a whole.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
(c) For the purposes of this Chapter, every contractor, subcontractor, architect, builder, or other person having charge of the construction, alteration, addition to, or repair, in whole or in part, of any building or other work of improvement shall be he
ld to be the agent of the owner.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 7 GCA }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  33202 (1994).}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [14]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana argues that the trial court erred in ruling, as a matter of law, that Guam}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s mechanic}{
\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien statutes require claims to be filed within ninety (90
) days after cessation of labor by any persons other than the original contractor when no notice of completion has been recorded by the owner.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Specifically, Apana contends that the trial court erred in determining that the filing time of ninety (90) days ran from April 13, 1992, the time Apana ceased work.}{\insrsid6121195  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [15]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana agrees that he stopped working on the project on April 13, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
However, he argues that the time for filing of the mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien does not necessarily begin to run on that date.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Instead, the April 13, 1992 date merely indicates the earliest date upon which he could have filed a lien.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Apana emphasizes that the important date for purposes of our review is the cut off date.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 It is Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s contention that there is a cut off date, or latest filing date, upon which a claimant may file; which, under subsection (c) of section 33302 ends (if no notice of completion is filed) ninety (90) days after completion of the project as a whole.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [16]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab 
Title 7 GCA section 33302 (d)(3) states that completion is equivalent to a cessation of labor for a continuous period of sixty (60) days after a work of improvement has begun.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
In this case, it is undisputed that a cessation of labor occurred on April 13, 1992, and Apana did not do any further work.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Looking to the record, there exists several memoranda from Guam Housing Corporation, including the latest, dated July 29, 1992, in which site inspections show that no work was being done.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 On or about J
une 12, 1992, some sixty (60) days after cessation of labor, the record reflects that Apana still had not resumed work. }{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [17]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab We stated in }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Manvil Corp. vs. E.C. Gozum & Co., Inc., et al., }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 1998 Guam 20, }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  17 that }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 we adopt a fair and reasonable construction and application of our mechanics}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 lien statutes to the facts in each particular case, so as to afford materialmen and laborers the security intended by the legislation}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s remedial purpose.}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Applying a }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 fair and reasonable construction}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  standard to the facts of this case, we find that the trial court should have applied}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 7 GCA section 33302, subsections (b) and (d)(3).}{\insrsid6121195  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [18]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Reading section 33302 (d)(3) with subsection (b), a lien would have to be filed within ninety (90) days after the completion of the work of improvement.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Such an interpretation would effectively give a claimant filing under a cessation of labor theory one hundred fifty (150) days to record a claim of lien.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
In this case, the lien was recorded on September 10, 1992, and filed on the one hundred and fiftieth (150}{\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 th}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ) day.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 H
ad the lower court}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s analysis included a review of the pertinent subsections, it would have concluded, as we do, that Apana recorded his mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien in a timely manner. }{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 B.\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\jclisttab\tx720\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The Payment Bond}{\b\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \s16\qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [19]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana next argues that the lower court
 erred regarding the bond payment issue.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The trial court determined that the default between Apana and Rosario occurred on April 9, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
The surety was executed on April 29, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Therefore, because the trial court concluded that the default antedated 
the execution of the bond, Continental, the surety, was found not liable to Apana for Rosario}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s failure to make payment on the contract between Apana and Rosario.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 However, Apana claims that the default actually occurred ninety (90) days after the payment was due (on April 9, 1992), which would have been on or about July 9, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Therefore, the claim would have been within the reach of the payment bond, executed on April 29, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [20]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana relies on}{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  People v. Great American Ins. Co.,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  222 Cal. App. 2d 552 (1963)}{
\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 for support.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 In }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Great American}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  the court held that }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
a surety contract is not retrospective in operation merely because part of the transactions with which the contract is concerned have been consummated earlier when the actual defaults insured against are still prospective.}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id. }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 at 561.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The court in that case held that default had not yet occurred on taxes imposed on certain sales transactions.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The default date was specific, that is, due and payable on 
}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 the last day of the month next succeeding each quarterly period,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  and had not yet been reached.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id.}{\i\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [21]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana also relies upon }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 S. L. Reed v. Maryland Casualty,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  244 F.2d 857 (5}{
\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 th}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  Cir. 1957), wherein the court found that a surety}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s liability may be based in part on events that have occurred before the execution of the bond, as long as no default anteceded its execution, or previous acquisition of material and contracts for subprojects made such default more probable.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id. }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 at 861.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Both cases that Apana cites for support}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
also recognize the general principle that a surety is not liable for the acts of the principal which occurred prior to the posting of the bond. }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id.; Great American Ins. Co.,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
 222 Cal. App. 2d at 552.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [22]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab We recognize that the determinative issue is when the default occurred -- whether it occurred before or after the execution of the payment bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The only language in the subcontract between Apana and Rosario which addresses timeliness of payment, states in pertinent part: }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [c]ontractor shall pay promptly all valid bills and charges for material, labor or otherwise in connection with or arising out of the construction of said structure}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 . . . }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  }{\cs15\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \chftn 
{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12020498 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 
Excerpt 1, Building Construction Contract, March 7, 1992, }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid12020498  5.  }}}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Absent any further language defining default between Apana and Rosario, the default occurred when payment was due, which was on or about April 9, 1992.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [23]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Apana urges this court to adopt the terms of the payment bond in defining the default between Rosario and Apana.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
However, a review of the payment bond fails to show that Continental intended to assume liability for other than prospective defaults.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Here, payment was due upon the completed construction of various parts of the house, as defined by the contract between Apana and Rosario.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
There is nothing in the record to suggest that default occurred or should have occurred after the execution of the bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
The amount of the bond did not include amounts already paid to Apana, suggesting a prospective application.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Unless there is an intent to be liable, no liability attaches to sureties for defaults occurring before they enter into the contract.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 W.J. Jones & Sons, Inc. v. Columbia Casualty Co.,}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  73 F.2d 449, 452 (9th Cir. 1934).}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [24]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab Accordingly, we cannot extend Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
s proffered definition of default to the parties when nothing in the record indicates an intent for Continental to be liable.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Apana has not provided authority to persuade us that the bond applied to work performed before its execution, or that the default occurred ninety (90) days after payment was due.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
A surety cannot be held liable beyond the precise terms of his contract; and a surety is not liable for acts of the principal which occurred prior to the posting of the bonds.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
S. L. Reed v. Maryland Casualty,}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  244 F.2d at 862.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Indeed, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
[a] contract of suretyship is not retrospective in its operation and no liability attaches to the surety for defaults occurring before it is entered into, unless an intent to be so liable is indicated.}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid6121195  }{\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Id. }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 at 862 (citation omitted)}{
\i\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 .}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  Therefore, we find that the lower court was correct in denying Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s claim on the payment bond.}{
\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [25]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab The Appellees argue that Apana is not a proper claimant or party under the terms of the payment bond beca
use payments were given to Rosario, who is deemed to be an agent or partner of Apana in the construction of the home.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Therefore, the matter should not be entertained by this court.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 As submitted by Apana, this issue was not properly raised as an appellate issue pursuant to Rule 4(a) of the Rules of Appellate Procedure for the Supreme Court of Guam, which provides in relevant part:}{\insrsid6121195 

\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 When an appeal is permitted by law from the Superior Court to the Supreme Court, the time within which an appeal
 may be taken in a civil case shall be thirty (30) days from the date of entry of judgment. . . . Subsequent to a timely notice of appeal, any other party may file a cross-notice of appeal within fourteen (14) days from the filing date of the first notice
. . . .}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Guam R. App .P. 4.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Appellees did not file a cross-notice of appeal regarding this issue.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Neither did Appellees bring a motion for extension of time for cross-appeal under Rule 4(c), which provides:}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Upon a showing of excusable neglect, the Superio
r Court may extend the time for filing the notice of appeal by any party for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days from the expiration of the time otherwise prescribed by this subdivision.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Such an extension may be granted before or after the time otherw
ise prescribed by this subdivision has expired; but if a request for an extension is made after such time has expired, it shall be made by motion with such notices as the court shall deem appropriate.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Guam R. App .P. 4.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Because of these procedural deficiencies, we will not further entertain this issue.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \chftn {\footnote 
\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12020498 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12020498 
When the briefs were submitted, Defendants-Appellees were represented by Daniel Del Priore, Esq.  Raymond T. Johnson, Esq., was subsequently substituted as counsel.  Thereafter, this court allowed the pa
rties the opportunity for supplemental briefing, wherein Defendants-Appellees}{\fs20\insrsid12851742 '}{\fs20\insrsid12020498  counsel did not further address this issue.  }}}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }{\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 CONCLUSION}{\b\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195\charrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [26]\tab }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Based upon the foregoing, we conclude that Apana}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s recording of a lien was timely under 7 GCA sections 33302(b) and 33302(d)(3).}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Under a cessation of labor theory, a project is completed where there is a cessation of labor for sixty (60) continuous days.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
After completion, a claimant has ninety (90) days to file its claim, which would give a claimant one hundred fifty (150) days in which to record its lien.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Apana filed his claim on the 150}{
\super\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 th}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  day, which would make his claim timely.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The trial court failed to incorporate this analysis into its decision.}{
\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 As such, it erred in strictly interpreting 7 GCA section 33302.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Therefore, the mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien against the Salas}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  property was properly recorded and valid.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 [27]}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 \tab We agree with the lower court}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s decision regarding the payment bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The payment bond neither contains retroactive provisions, nor do its terms contemplate liability for any work done prior to the execution of the bond.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 
Therefore, the trial court was correct in finding that the bond does not cover any claims Apana may have had prior to the date the bond was executed.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Accordingly, Apana}{
\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s claim against Continental was properly dismissed.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The trial court}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s decision is }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 REVERSED, }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 in part, as to the judgment in favor of Salas and }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 AFFIRMED,}{
\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  in part, as to the judgment in favor of Continental.}{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 The case is }{\b\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 REMANDED}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195  to the 
Superior Court for foreclosure proceedings on the mechanic}{\insrsid12851742\charrsid6121195 '}{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 s lien regarding the outstanding amount due.}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 ANDREW M. GAYLE\tab \tab \tab \tab JOAQUIN C. ARRIOLA, SR.
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Justice Pro Tempore\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid6121195  }{\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 Justice Pro Tempore}{\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid6121195 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6121195 {\insrsid12020498\charrsid6121195 RICHARD H. BENSON
\par Chief Justice (Acting)
\par }}