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{\title IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\author lroberto}{\operator blake_r}{\creatim\yr2005\mo8\dy12\hr9\min2}{\revtim\yr2006\mo3\dy14\hr9\min50}{\version5}{\edmins4}{\nofpages8}{\nofwords2644}{\nofchars15073}{\*\company Superior Court of Guam}
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Estate of Edward C. Benevente v. Maquera,}{\fs20\insrsid12781590  Opinion\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid12781590 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid6620817 8}}}{\fs20\insrsid12781590  of 12}{\insrsid12781590 
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid6620817 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 ESTATE OF EDWARD C. BENAVENTE,
\par ESTATE OF PEDRO S.N. CASTRO}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
\par }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Plaintiff\_Appellant}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 LEON G. MAQUERA}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
\par }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Defendant\_Appellee}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Filed: February 7, 2000
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Cite as: 2000 Guam 9}{\insrsid6620817 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Supreme Court Case No. CVA98-011
\par Superior Court Case No. CV0024\_90}{\insrsid6620817 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and Submitted on August 16, 1999
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid6620817 
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\par Mark S.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Smith, Esq.
\par Brief prepared by:}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Bill R. Mann, Esq.
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\par Suite 503, Bank of Guam Building
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\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }{\ul\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Appearing for Defendant\_Appellee}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 :
\par Leon G. Maquera, Esq.
\par Maquera Law Offices
\par P.O. Box 11976
\par Yigo, Guam 96929
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\par }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 BEFORE: RICHARD H. BENSON, Acting Chief Justice}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 The three full-time Justices, includ
ing the Chief Justice recused themselves from hearing this matter.  Justice Benson, as the senior member of the panel was designated as the Acting Chief Justice.}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 , JOHN A. MANGLONA, Designated Justice,}{\insrsid6620817 
 }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 and JOHN C. DIERKING, Justice }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Pro Tempore}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 .
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 BENSON, J.:
\par }{\b\insrsid6620817 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [1]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab This case raises issues of Guam law concerning the fiduciary duty attorneys owe clients in transactions with their clients. Appellee, Leon G. Maquera (}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 ), an attorney, provided legal services to Appellant, Pedro S.N. Castro (}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}
}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Castro}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 ).}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn 
{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
The Plaintiff, Pedro S.N. Castro, passed away on June 1, 1992.  Castro}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 s  estate, th
e Plaintiff-Appellant, Estate of Pedro S.N. Castro was substituted, although for purposes of this opinion, the Plaintiff-Appellant will be referred to as Castro.}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
In exchange for services rendered, Castro conveyed a piece of property to Maquera.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Castro t
hen sought to set aside the conveyance, alleging that Maquera, as a practicing attorney, had a fiduciary duty toward Castro, his client, which Maquera had breached. The trial court found that because Castro had not proven the existence of a trustee relati
onship, Maquera had not breached a fiduciary duty.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Thus, the trial court denied Castro the relief sought.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Upon review of the matter, we find that the lower court erred in failing to apply the law of fiduciaries to this case.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Accordingly, the decision of 
the lower court is reversed and the matter is remanded to the trial court.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [2]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab The Appellant, Castro, was a man of limited education, finishing only the sixth grade.}{\insrsid6620817  
}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The Appellee, Maquera, is an attorney of approximately 42 years experience.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Sometime in 1982, Maquera met Castro. Thereafter, Maquera began to provide legal services to Castro.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The parties did not execute a written fee agreement regarding the legal services rendered nor did Maquera keep records documenting time spent for work performed.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Over the years, Maquera handled a number of legal matters for Castro, most of which dealt with land transactions.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Although the two men did not socialize together, a casual friendship developed. }{
\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [3]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab On or about December 17, 1987, after completing some legal work for Castro, the parties discussed the matter of}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
outstanding legal fees owed Maquera.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 At the time, Maquera estimated that the amount owed was somewhere between $12,000.00 and $45,000.00.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote 
\pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 We find it disturbing that a practicing attorney}{
\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 s failure to maintain his records left a question of what was owed for legal services somewhere between maybe $12,000 and $45,000, a difference of $33,000.}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 For remuneration of services,}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera suggested that Castro give him a particular piece of property that Castro owned.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
\chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
Transcript, vol. I p. 8 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Therefore, on or about January 4, 1988, Castro gave Maquera a Quitclaim Deed to the subject property.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The property is located in Harmon, zoned R-2 and is approximately 5,000 square meters in size. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [4]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab This property was subject to an Agreement to Buy and Sell between Castro and a Mr. Calvert, which was entered into on or about April 4, 1970.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 It was Castro}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s understanding that the agreement was still valid, although payments had not been made since 1971.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The property had also been subject to a Marshal}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s sale in the amount of $500.00}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
pursuant to a judgment against Castro.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 Plaintiff, Edward C. Benavente purchased this property at the Marshal}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
s sale.  On May 13, 1996, Plaintiff Benavente was dismissed out of this case, leaving the Estate of Castro.}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera thought that Castro believed that this amount represented the value of the land.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
Transcript, vol. I pp. 9-11 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Prior to the conveyance of this property to Maquera, Castro neither sought the advice of another attorney, nor did he have the property appraised.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 There was no writing governing the transaction. }{
\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [5]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab After receiving the deed to the property, Maquera took steps to clear the title.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
He filed an Affidavit of Cancellation of the Calvert transaction on or about January 4, 1988.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 He then exercised a right of redemption and paid $525.00 toward the satisfaction of the judgment 
against the subject property.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera then placed title to the property in his own name, subsequently deeding the property to his wife.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
On or about December 30, 1988, Maquera and his wife sold the property to C.S. Chang and C.C. Chang for the amount of $320,000.00.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [6]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Castro filed an action against Maquera, on or about October 12, 1990.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
During this same time period, the Guam Bar Ethics Committee held hearings regarding the Defendant}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 s actions with respect to the matter.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid12781590 Guam Bar Ethics Committee v.Leon G. Maquera}
{\fs20\insrsid12781590 , SP0075-94 (Jun 12, 1996). As a result of these hearings in May of 1996, the Superior Court of Guam sitting as an Ethics Panel, issued an order, finding the Defendant}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
s conduct inappropriate and in violation of the Rules of Professional Conduct 1.5(a) and 1.8(a).  (in 7 GCA Appendix F) (1994). 
\par 
\par Rule 1.5 Fees.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 (a) A lawyer's fee shall be reasonable. The factors to be considered in determining the reasonableness of a fee include the following:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 1. the time and labor required, the novelty and difficulty of the questions involved, and the skill requisite to perform the service properly;
\par 2. the likelihood, if apparent to the client, that the acceptance of the particular employment will preclude other employment by the lawyer;
\par 3. the fee customarily charged in the locality for similar legal services;
\par 4. the amount involved and the results obtained;
\par 5. the time limitations imposed by the client or by the circumstances;
\par 6. the nature and length of the professional relationship with the client;
\par 7. the experience, reputation, and ability of the lawyer or lawyers performing the services;  and
\par 8. whether the fee is fixed or contingent.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590  Rule 1.8 Conflict of Interest:  Prohibited Transactions.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
(a) A lawyer shall not enter into a business transaction with a client or knowingly acquire an ownership, possessory, security or other pecuniary interest adverse to a client unless:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid12781590 
1. the transaction and terms on which the lawyer acquires the interest are fair and reasonable to the client and are fully disclosed and transmitted in writing to the client in a manner which can be reasonably understood by the client;
\par 2. the client is given a reasonable opportunity to seek the advice of independent counsel in the transaction;  and}{\insrsid12781590 
\par }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 3. the client consents in writing thereto.}{\insrsid12781590 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\insrsid12781590 
\par }}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Castro was granted summary judgment on October 18, 1993.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 However, on appeal, the grant of summary judgment was r
eversed and the case remanded to Superior Court.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 At a bench trial, the lower court found in Maquera}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s favor.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 This appeal followed.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 ANALYSIS}{\b\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [7]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab This court has jurisdiction under 7 GCA sections 3107 and 3108 (1994). Castro}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 alleges that there were errors made of both law and fact. The court reviews }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 de novo }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 the trial court}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s interpretation of the law.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Sumitomo Construction v. Zhong Ye, Inc., }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 1997 Guam 8, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  9.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Whereas }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [f]indings of facts made by a judge after a bench trial are subject to the clearly erroneous standard of review.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Yang v. Hong, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 1998 Guam 9, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  4.}{\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [8]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab The thrust of Castro}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
s appeal is that Maquera breached a fiduciary duty owed Castro because of their attorney-client relationship. }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The relation of attorney and client is of a fiduciary character and the Civil C
ode (section 2235) clearly provides that all transactions between a trustee and his beneficiary during the existence of the trust, by which he obtains any advantage from his beneficiary, are presumed to be entered into by the latter without sufficient con
sideration and under undue influence.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Clark v. Millsap, }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 242 P. 918, 925 (Cal. 1926) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Castro argues that the trial court was bound by California authority, from which our statutes are based.}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See Roberto v. Aguon, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
519 F.2d 754 (9th Cir. 1975) (holding that California decisions, with regard to identical statutes are controlling on Guam courts if they predate the enactment of Guam}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s statutes).}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Specifically, 18 GCA section 65208 (1992) which is based upon former California Civil Code section 2235, states as follows:}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 65208. Presumption against trustees.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 All transactions between a trustee and his beneficiary during the existence of the trust, or while t
he influence acquired by the trustee remains, by which he obtains any advantage from his beneficiary, }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 are presumed to be entered}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  into by the latter }{
\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 without sufficient consideration, and under undue influence}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 .}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 (emphasis added).}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [9]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab This means that if an at
torney chooses to deal with his client and thereby gains an advantage, the attorney has the burden of showing by the evidence that the transaction was fair.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Plxweve Aircraft Co. v. Greenwood}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 , 61 Cal. App. 2d 21, 24, 141 P.2d 933, 935 (1943).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [A] cause of action has been stated for appropriate relief when facts are alleged which show that an attorney has entered into a transaction with his client and has obtained an advantage therefrom.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The burden of showing the transaction to be fair in such a case is one of affirmative defense.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Id.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [10]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Additionally, Castro claims that attorneys as fiduciaries are made subject to the law governing trustees.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  18 GCA }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  65105. Section 65105 provides that }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [e]very one who voluntarily assumes a relation of personal confidence with another is deemed a trustee 
. . . .}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Id.}{\i\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Therefore, Castro claims that he is entitled to recover under 18 GCA section 65210 (1992)}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 While Castro claims he is entitled to the full amount Maquera received for the land, or $320,000.00,  Cast
ro is seeking that amount, minus the maximum amount alleged due as attorney fees of $45,000.00, minus the $525.00 Maquera paid to redeem the property, and minus another $500.00 Maquera spent in clearing the title.  Transcript, vol II.  p.  63 (Bench Trial
,
 January 23, 1998).  Accordingly, Castro requests judgment for the balance, or $273,975.00.  Transcript, vol II.  p.  63 (Bench Trial, January 23, 1998).  This is despite the fact that Castro reimbursed Maquera the funds he expended to redeem the property
.  Transcript, vol II.  p.  63 (Bench Trial, January 23, 1998); Appellee}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 s Excerpt of Record at 14-15.}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 , which states as follows: }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  65210.}{
\b\insrsid6620817  }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Liability for breach.}{\b\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 A trustee who uses or disposes of the trust property, contrary to }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 65202 of this Chapter, may, at the option of the beneficiary, be required to account for all profits so made, or to pay the value of its use, and, if he has disposed thereof, to replace it, with its fruits, or to account for its proceeds, with interest.}
{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Castro argues that the lower court erred in failing to consider this position.}{\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [11]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab The trial court found that Castro}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s cause of action rested upon Maquera}{
\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s violation of various Rules of Professional Conduct, one of which was a violation of his fiduciary duties.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The lower court stated that Castro}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 reliance upon Maquera}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
s alleged violation of his fiduciary duties and subsequent discipline was misplaced in the present civil action. Although the trial court repeatedly stated that the Ethics Panel of the Superior Court of Guam}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s sanctioning of Castro, would have no bearing on its decision, it seemed to have completely influenced its analysis.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Estate of Edward C. Benavente v. Leon G. Maquera,
}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  CV0924-90 (Super. Ct. Guam Mar. 16, 1998). Citing to Title 7 GCA, Appendix F-4 the trial court noted that }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [t]he Rules of Professional Conduct are rules of reason.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Id}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 . at 13.}{\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [12]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab The court considered section F-6, which states that:}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Violation of a Rule should not give rise to a cause of action nor should it create any presumption that a legal duty has been breached. The Rules are des
igned to provide guidance to lawyers and to provide a structure for regulating conduct through disciplinary agencies. They are not designed to be a basis for civil liability.}{\insrsid6620817  
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 7 GCA App. F at 6-7 (1994).}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Based upon the foregoing, the trial court concluded that }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
[t]o find that Defendant breached his fiduciary duties to Plaintiff, the Court must necessarily find that Defendant violated the Rules of Professional Conduct and also}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
violated the attorney/client relationship.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Even if this Court were to make such a finding, as has been stated previously, such finding cannot serve as a basis for civil liability in this case.}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Estate of Edward C. Benavente,}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 CV0924-90 (p. 34).}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [13]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Therefore, the trial court focused on the civil causes of action contained in the complaint, such as actual fraud, unjust enrichment and rescission.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
While the claims of indemnity and contribution and recission were originally alleged in the Complaint, and discussed in the trial court}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
s Decision and Order, the matter addressed at trial was whether or not Maquera breached his fiduciary duty which would have given rise to a cause of action for damages.}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 The lower court stated that in order for Castro to prevail on a count of fraud, it was incumbent upon Castro to prove both that Maquera}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 acted with the intent to deceive another
, and that merely acting with negligence was not enough.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 18 GCA }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  85308.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The trial court rendered its decision finding that Castro failed to adequately prove his case with respect to any of his claims.}{
\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [14]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab A reading of the lower court}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
s opinion would suggest that if an attorney is disciplined, he cannot later be subjected to a cause of action for the act or acts that gave rise to the disciplinary action.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
This court does not agree with the lower court}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s interpretation.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
We find that while the discipline of an attorney should not necessarily be the basis for a suit, such discipline certainly cannot and should not render an attorney immune from further civil liability. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [15]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The attorney-client relationship is }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 highly fiduciary.}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Sears, Roebuck & Co. v. Goldstone & Sudalter, P.C.}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 , 128 F.3d 10, 15 (1st Cir. 1997) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Under 18 GCA section 65208, there is a rebuttable presumption against trustees.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Transactions between an attorney and client where an attorney obtains an advantage from his client are presumed to be without sufficient consideration and under undue influence exercised by the attorney.}{\insrsid6620817  
}{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See Oliker v. Gershunoff, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 195 Cal. App. 3d 1288, 1294 (1988).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The primary effect of the these two presumptions is to shift the burden of proof to the attorney.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Beery v. State Bar of California, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 43 Cal. 3d 802, 812, 239 Cal. Rptr. 121, 126 (1987); }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 See also}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
Hick v. Clayton, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 67 Cal. App. 3d 251, 262, 136 Cal. Rptr. 512, 518 (1977) (finding that [the former] California Civil Code section 2235 applies to the attorney-client relationship).}{\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [16]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab In order for
 an attorney to overcome the presumption of undue influence which arises where the attorney enters into a business transaction with his client, the attorney is required to establish by }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 clear and satisfactory}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  extrinsic evidence that: (1) the business transaction entered into between the attorney and client had been equitable to the client in all material respects; (2) prior to entering into the business transaction with
 the client, the attorney made full disclosure to the client of all material information relating to the business transaction; and (3) the client had consented to the business transaction after full disclosure had been made by the attorney to the client.}
{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Oliker, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 195 Cal. App. 3d at 1294-95. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [17]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Looking to the record, we find that it was Maquera, not Castro, who suggested that Castro deed the subject piece of property in lieu of payment for services.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
Transcript, vol. I p. 8 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera knew that Castro did not understand the true value of the property and the effect of the Marshal}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s sale.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Yet, Maquera did not choose to explain to Castro the true nature of the property, nor did he suggest that Castro seek legal advice from another attorney.}{
\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [18]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Maquera argues that although Castro may have not been very educated, he was not }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 a babe in the woods}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 when it came to land transactions.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 Transcript, vol. II p. 65 (Bench Trial, January 24, 1998).}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
However, whether or not Castro may have understood more than a sixth grade education would indicate, it was for Maquera to show that the transaction was fair.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Clearly, the transaction was to Maquera}{
\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s advantage, as he realized a return of $320,000.00 on a debt of possibly $45,000.00. It would be almost impossible to suggest otherwise.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The trial court erred in finding that the burden of proof rested upon Castro and in failing to apply the principle of fiduciary duty to the facts. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [19]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab 
The trial court further found that there was insufficient evidence presented to show that Castro did not intend for Maquera to receive the property, and in fact that it was Castro who }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 offered to deed the property at issue}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  to Maquera.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Estate of Edward C. Benavente,}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 CV0924-90 (p.28). This reasoning begs the question of why, if Castro had wanted Maquera to have the property, he subsequently filed this litigation.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The trial court found that Castro suggested the conveyance.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 However, a review of the record indicates it was Maquera who suggested the conveyance, not Castro.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
Transcript, vol. I p. 8 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{\insrsid6620817  
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [20]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Maquera claims that at the time of the transaction, there no longer was a fiduciary duty owed, because he had finished providing legal services to Castro and cites }{
\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Ellis v. Poindexter, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 137 S.E. 595, 596 (N.C. 1927)(holding that where a contract for attorney}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
s fees was made after termination of the litigation, the relationship of attorney and client no longer existed and it was competent for the parties to then contract for the payment of the past services).}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 This court is not convinced that merely because Maquera states that the relationship of attorney-client had ended that in fact it had. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [21]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab The record shows that the parties had an on-going relationship for a number of years.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 Transcript, vol. I pp. 4-5 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera himself indicated that Castro would call on him as needed.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 Transcript, vol. I pp. 4-5 (Bench Trial, November 24, 1997).}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
This was not a situation where the attorney was retained for the limited purpose of obtaining a divorce or quieting title. There is no testimony or 
evidence presented that Maquera was seeking payment for all services rendered because he was seeking to conclude his professional relationship with Castro.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Even if Maquera}{
\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s contention were accepted, the transaction occurred }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 while the influence acquired by the trustee}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  remained.}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 18 GCA }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  65208.}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 The record also shows that after Maquera redeemed the property he delivered to Castro a check containing Castro}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
s proceeds from a previous case with Maquera}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s cost in redeeming the property deducted from the check}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s amount.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid12781590 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid12781590 
Appellee}{\fs20\insrsid11154551 '}{\fs20\insrsid12781590 s Excerpt of Record at 14-15.}}}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [22]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 An attorney}{
\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s duty of fidelity to his client involves far more than refraining from exercising undue influence.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
His fiduciary duty is of the very highest character.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 For this reason all business dealings between attorney and client whereby the attorney benefits are c
losely scrutinized for any unfairness on the attorney}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s part.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Magee v. State Bar, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 58 Cal. 2d 423, 431, 374 P.2d 807, 811 (1962) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 In civil cases
 there are no transactions respecting which courts . . . are more jealous and particular, than dealings between attorneys and their clients, especially where there is great intellectual inequality, and comparative inexperience on the part of the latter.}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Eschwig v. State Bar, }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
1 Cal. 3d 8, 14, 459 P.2d 904, 909-10 (1969) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [23]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab From the evidence, it is clear that Maquera breached his fiduciary duty with respect to Castro.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 In his d
ealings with Castro, Maquera placed himself in a position where his self-interest in the transaction prevented his giving disinterested advice to Castro.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 At no time prior to or}{\insrsid6620817  }{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 contemporaneous with the conveyance did Maquera suggest to Castro that before entering into such an agreement Castro should consult independent counsel.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
It is doubtful that had the exact transaction concerned Castro and another lawyer, Maquera would have advised Castro to proceed with the transaction.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 From Maquera}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s own testimony, he understood that Castro thought the property in question was valued at the price of $500.00, the amount the property was sold for at a Marshal}{\insrsid11154551\charrsid6620817 '}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 s sale.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Maquera did not seek to disabuse Castro of such a belief. }{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [24]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab As stated in }{\i\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Yang,}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
[a] finding is clearly erroneous when, even though some evidence supports it, the entire record produces the definite and firm conviction that the court below committed a mistake.}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 1998 Guam 9 at }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817  7 (citation omitted).}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
In reviewing the record before us, this court finds that there was substantial evidence in the record to support a finding that Maquera had in fact, breached his fiduciary duty toward Castro.}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
The trial court erred as a matter of law in failing to apply the law of fiduciaries to the facts.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 CONCLUSION}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 [25]}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 \tab Therefore, the decision of the trial court is }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 REVERSED}{
\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 .}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Accordingly, this}{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 matter is }{\b\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 REMANDED}{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 
 to the trial court with directions to enter judgment for Castro in the amount of $274,500.00, representing what the Appellee wrongfully gained from the sale. Castro is also entitled to his costs of the appeal.}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 JOHN C. DIERKING\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 JOHN A. MANGLONA
\par Justice Pro Tempore\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid6620817  }{\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 Designated Justice}{\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid6620817 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6620817 {\insrsid12781590\charrsid6620817 RICHARD H. BENSON
\par Chief Justice, Acting
\par }}