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NATIVIDAD, \par }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Defendant-Appellee,}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Supreme Court Case No. CRA05-002 \par Superior Court Case No. CF0094-02}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 OPINION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Filed:}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 December 30, 2005}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Cite as:}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 2005 Guam 28}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Appeal }{\insrsid12284787 from the Superior Court of Guam}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }\trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trgaph120\trleft0\trkeep\trhdr\trftsWidth1\trpaddl120\trpaddr120\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4860\clshdrawnil \cellx4860\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4500\clshdrawnil \cellx9360\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid12933136 { \ul\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Appearing for Plaintiff-Appellant}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 : \par Marianne Woloschuk, }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Esq}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 .\tab \par Assistant Attorney General\tab \tab \par Office of the Attorney General \par 287 W. O\rquote Brien Dr. \par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, GU 96910 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sa57\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid12933136 {\ul\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Appearing for Defendant-Appellee}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 : \par Howard Trapp, }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Esq.}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par Howard Trapp, Inc. \par 200 Saylor Building \par 139 Chalan Santo Papa \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sa57\nowidctlpar\intbl\faauto\rin0\lin0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 { \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts11\trgaph120\trleft0\trkeep\trhdr\trftsWidth1\trpaddl120\trpaddr120\trpaddfl3\trpaddfr3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4860\clshdrawnil \cellx4860\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrnone \clbrdrl\brdrnone \clbrdrb\brdrnone \clbrdrr\brdrnone \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4500\clshdrawnil \cellx9360\row }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 BEFORE:}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO, Chief Justice; FRANCES M. TYDINGCO-GATEWOOD, Associate Justice; ROBERT J. TORRES, JR., Associate Justice. \par }{\b\insrsid14242062\charrsid12933136 \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 TORRES, J.:}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \par }{\b\insrsid12933136 \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [1]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Plaintiff-Appellant People of Guam appeal from a Superior Court Judgment of Acquittal, issued after a jury returned a guilty verdict, in this criminal action.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Defendant-Appellee Emerito C. Natividad filed a Motion to Dismiss, arguing that this court lacks appellate jurisdiction to hear the appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 He challenges the People\rquote s reliance on Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3) in this case, and cites this court\rquote s decision in }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People v. Lujan}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 28, that recognized statutory limitations to appellate jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People opposed the motion, arguing, }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 inter alia}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , that the reinstatement of the jury\rquote s guilty verdict does not violate Double Jeopardy concerns.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 We hold, in accordance with our prior decisions, that the statutes governing appellate jurisdiction are to be strictly construed, and that Guam law does not allow the People to appeal from the trial court\rquote s grant of a Motion for Acquittal after a jury\rquote s guilty verdict.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Therefore, this appeal is dismissed.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 1{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 1}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 This Opinion of the court supersedes the Memorandum Order, issued on Dec. 13, 2005, which had dismissed this case.}}}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 I.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [2]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab In 2002, Emeri to C. Natividad was indicted in the Superior Court with vehicular homicide and criminal negligent homicide.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The charges arose from Natividad\rquote s operation of a vehicle that had pinned a two-year-old child against the wall of UR Market in Dededo, which resulted in the child\rquote s death.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In 2005, the case proceeded to a jury trial, where Natividad rested his case in chief without presenting any evidence.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 At the close of all evidence, Natividad moved for a judgment of acquittal, arguing that the evidence presented by the People of Guam was insufficient as a matter of law.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The trial court ruled from the bench and granted the acquittal on the negligent homicide charge, but reserved its ruling with}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 respect to the vehicular homicide charge.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The vehicular homicide charge went to the jury, which returned a guilty verdict that same day.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\keep\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [3]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Thereafter, the trial court granted Natividad\rquote s motion for judgment of acquittal on}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 the vehicular homicide charge in a Decision and Order, holding that based on the evidence pres ented, no reasonable trier of fact could have found the essential elements of the vehicular homicide charge.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 A Judgment of Acquittal was entered on the Superior Court docket.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People timely filed a Notice of Appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Natividad in turn filed the instant Motion to Dismiss. }{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 II.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [4]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Natividad argues generally that this court may exercise appellate jurisdiction only pursuant to express statutory authority, and argues specifically that the People erroneously rely on Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3) because}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 there is no \'93order after judgment\'94 as required by the statute.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 He maintains that our holding in }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Lujan}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 28, recognizes statutory limits to our jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [5]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People make the following counter arguments:}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (1) the unde rlying purpose of a statute such as Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3) is to prevent Double Jeopardy to a defendant, and federal courts have held that reversing a trial court\rquote s grant of motion for acquittal and reinstating a jury\rquote s guilty verdict does not offend the prohibition against Double Jeopardy; (2) because the People could have made a motion for reconsideration, the trial court could have reinstated the jury\rquote s guilty verdict or affirmed its decision to grant the motion of acquittal which the People could then appeal; and (3) this court is not bound by dicta from Ninth Circuit cases.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Alternatively, the People submit that this court may review the case as an appeal pursuant to Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(1) (allowing appeals from orders granting a new trial) or as a petition for an extraordinary writ.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 A.\tab Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [6]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The starting point for our analysis of whether this court has appellate jurisdiction must begin with the statute setting forth the instances when the government may file an appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 (2005) provides the bases for appeals by the People:}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Appeals Allowed by Government.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (a) An appeal may be taken by the government from any of the following:}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (1) An order granting a new trial.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (2) An order arresting judgment.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (3) An order made after judgment, affecting the substantial rights of the government.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (4) An order modifying the verdict on finding by reducing the degree of the offense or the punishment imposed.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (5) An order or judgment dismissing or otherwise terminating the acti on before the defendant has been placed in jeopardy or where the defendant has waived jeopardy.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (6) An order granting a motion to suppress evidence. . . .}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People may not appeal pursuant to subsection (1), because the trial court did not grant a new trial.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 2{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 2}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 The People did not make a motion for a new trial at the conclusion of the lower court proceedings, either orally or in writing. Nevertheless, the People argue this court should adopt a Texas appellate court\rquote s approach in looking at the effect of the trial court\rquote s grant of a judgment }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 non obstante veredicto}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 . In }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 State v. Savage}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 905 S.W.2d 268 (Tex. Ct. App. 1994), the court stated that \'93[a]n appellate court, in determining its jurisdiction, must look to the effect of the court\rquote s order\'94 and accordingly \'93look[ed] beyond the label \lquote motion for judgment non obstante veredicto\rquote to determine whether the motion and order actually effected an arrest of judgment.\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Id.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 at 269. We decline to follow the Texas court\rquote s broad approach, especially in light of our holding in }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Lujan}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 1998 Guam 28, that jurisdiction be narrowly defined, and that this court \'93must respect\'94 those \'93 statutory provisions contain[ing] specific limitations on the ability of a party to pursue appellate relief.\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Id.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 \'b6 9.}}}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Appeal i s not allowed under subsection (2), because Natividad did not make a motion for arrest of judgment pursuant to Title 8 GCA \'a7 115.10.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The trial court, in granting Natividad\rquote s motion for acquittal, did not modify the jury\rquote s verdict \'93by reducing the degree of the offense or the punishment imposed\'94 and therefore, there is no jurisdiction pursuant to subsection (4).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People may not rely on subsection (5), because there is no \'93order or judgment dismissing or otherwise terminating the action before the defend ant has been placed in jeopardy or where the defendant has waived jeopardy.\'94}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 3{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 3}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 is derived from California Penal Code \'a7 1238. The identical language contained in subsection (5) of \'a7 130.20 was modified by California in 1998 to expand the government\rquote s right to appeal. The amendment and its legislative history is discussed }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 infra}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 .}}}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Finally, jurisdiction is not proper pursuant to subsection (6) because this case does not involve a motion to suppress evidence. }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [7]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People base this appeal on subsection (3), presumably arguing that the Decision and Order is an \'93order after judgment.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 This argument is not persuasive.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People appeal from both the Decision and Order and the Judgment of Acquittal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Neither document can be interpreted as an \'93order after judgment. \'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The Decision and Order was issued }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 before}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 the Judgment of Acquittal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The Judgment of Acquittal is the judgment in the case; there was no order or judgment issued }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 after}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 it.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In addition, a verdict is defined as \'93[t]he formal decision or finding made by a jury.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Black\rquote s Law Dictionary 1559 (6th ed. 1990).}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 A \'93judgment,\'94 on the other hand, is pronounced by the court or a judge.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Black\rquote s Law Dictionary 841-42 (6th ed. 1990).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 These words are terms of art and are not interchangeable.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [8]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab }{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People v. Ulloa}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 903 F.2d 1283 (9th Cir. 1990), involved nearly identical facts, where the jury had returned a guilty verdict and the trial court granted the defendant\rquote s motion for acquittal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Upon the People\rquote s appeal, the District Court Appellate Division reversed and reinstated the guilty verdict. }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 at 1283-84.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The Ninth Circuit then reversed the Appellate Division, holding that Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 did not allow an appeal from the trial court\rquote s grant of a motion for acquittal.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 at 1286.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Although the People in }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Ulloa}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 did not argue that the appeal was from an \'93order after judgment\'94 pursuant to 8 GCA \'a7 130.20.(a)(3), the Ninth Circuit nonetheless evaluated all the statutory grounds for jurisdiction set forth in 8 GCA \'a7 130.20, and concluded that there was no statutory basis for the appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 at 1285 n.7.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Specifically, it found that \'93a judgment of acquittal is simply not an order made after judgment; it is a judgment.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In the case herein, the Decision and Order was issued }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 before}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 the judgment.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The Judgment of Acquittal is not an order after judgment.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [9]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People submit that the rationale for 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3) is to prevent Double Jeopardy violations, and jurisdiction is proper because a succ essful appeal would not violate Double Jeopardy, but rather, would only reinstate the jury\rquote s guilty verdict.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People urge that interpreting 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3) \'93 in concert with federal or California law\'94 grants this court\rquote s jurisdiction over the instant appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Opp\rquote n to Def.-Appellee\rquote s Mot. to Dismiss for Want of Jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People further urge this court to look to federal and California interpretations, because according to the Compiler\rquote s Notes, Chapter 130 of the GCA \'93conformed generally to their federal or California counterparts.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Note, 8 GCA \'a7 130.10.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 4{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 4}{\insrsid3632714 }{\fs20\insrsid3632714 For example, the Notes to Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.25(2005) state that it is \'93identical to former \'a7 1242,\'94 which in turn is identical to California Penal Code \'a7 1242. }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 See also}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.35 (2005) (noting the provision to be \'93 substantively the same as Rule 3 of the Federal Rules of Appellate Procedure\'94); Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.30 (2005) (noting that Fed. R. Crim. P. 38 [is] substantively the same as\'94 section 130.30); Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.55 (2005 ) (noting that California Penal Code \'a7 1259 to be \'93substantively the same\'94 as section 130.55); Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.70 (2005) (noting the provision to be \'93substantively the same as . . . California Penal Code \'a7 1263.\'94 ). Although similar commentary is noticeably absent with regard to section 130.20, this court has recognized that \'93[s]ection 130.20 takes the identical language from the California statute . . . . \'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 People v. Pak}{ \fs20\insrsid3632714 , 1998 Guam 27 \'b6 6 (citing Cal. Penal Code \'a7 1466(a)(1)(B) (West Supp. 1998) and Cal. Penal Code \'a7 1238 (a)(8) (West 1982)). }}}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 1.}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Federal law}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [10]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People cite 18 U.S.C. \'a7 3731 (Westlaw through P.L. 109-127 (2005)), which requires a consideration of Double Jeopardy and states in relevant part:}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \'93In a criminal case an appeal by th e United States shall lie . . . from a decision, judgment, or order . . . dismissing an indictment or information or granting a new trial . . . except that no appeal shall lie where the double jeopardy clause . . . prohibits further prosecution.\'94}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Furthermore, the United States Supreme Court has interpreted this statute as exhibiting Congress\rquote intent \'93to broaden the Government\rquote s appeal rights. . . . [L]egislative history makes it clear that Congress intended to remove all statutory barriers to Government appeals and to allow appeals whenever the Constitution would permit.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Wilson}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 420 U.S. 332, 337 (1975).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The general rule in the federal circuits, as the People recognize, allows an appeal from a trial court\rquote s grant of a motion of acquittal after a jury\rquote s guilty verdict.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See e.g., United States v. Horwitz,}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 622 F.2d 1101 (2d Cir. 1980);}{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Uzzolino,}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 651 F.2d 207 (3d Cir. 1981); }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. McInnis,}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 601 F.2d 1319 (5th Cir. 1979); }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Blasco}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 581 F.2d 681 (7th Cir. 1978);}{ \i\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Moore}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 586 F.2d 1029 (4th Cir.1978);}{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Rojas}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 554 F.2d 938 (9th Cir. 1977); }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 United States v. Donahue}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 539 F.2d 1131 (8th Cir. 1976).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 These cases, however, are based on federal law reflecting Congress\rquote intent to allow the government to appeal, and are therefore inapposite.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 5{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 5}{\insrsid3632714 }{\fs20\insrsid3632714 One state adopted the reasoning used by the Supreme Court and federal circuit courts and held that the government may appeal from a trial court\rquote s grant of a defendant\rquote s motion to acquit when not barred by Double Jeopardy concerns. }{ \i\fs20\insrsid3632714 See State v. Monticello Developers, Inc.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 527 N.E.2d 1111, 1112 (Ind. 1988) (holding that because the defendant \'93 will not be exposed to a second trial or further fact-finding proceedings of any kind, remand of the case for sentencing on the jury\rquote s verdict does not violate the double jeopardy clause\'94 but also noting that state statute allowed the government to then appeal after the remand).}}}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [11]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Congress also enacted 48 U.S.C. \'a7 1493 in 1984, allowing territorial governments to seek review}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 or relief in an appellate court in certain instances.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 This provision states in its entirety:}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The prosecution in a territory }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 or Commonwealth }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 is authorized--unless precluded by local law--to seek review or other suitable relief in the appropriate local}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 or Federal}{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 appellate court}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , or, where applicable, in the Supreme Court of the United States from\endash }{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (a)}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 a decision, judgment, or order of a trial court dismissing an indictment or information as to any one or more counts, except that no review shall lie where the constitutional prohibition against double jeopardy would further prosecution;}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (b)}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 a decision or order of a trial court suppressing or excluding evidence or requiring the return of seize d property in a criminal proceeding, not made after the defendant has been put in jeopardy and before the verdict or finding on an indictment or information, if the prosecution certifies to the trial court that the appeal is not taken for purpose of delay and that the evidence is a substantial proof of a fact material in the proceeding;}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 and}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 (c)}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 an adverse decision, judgment, or order of an appellate court.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 48 U.S.C. \'a7 1493 (Westlaw through P.L. 109-127 (2005)) (emphases added.).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Even pursuant to this f ederal statute, the People are foreclosed from appealing this case, as the People do not appeal from a \'93a decision, judgment, or order of a trial court dismissing an indictment or information as to any one or more counts\'94 pursuant to subsection (a), or \'93a decision or order of a trial court suppressing or excluding evidence or requiring the return of seized property in a criminal proceeding\'94 pursuant to subsection (b).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Therefore, the People do not satisfy either basis for jurisdiction under 48 U.S.C. \'a7 1493 under either subsection (a) or (b). }{ \insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [12]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab We are not persuaded by the People\rquote s argument to rely on federal statutes or precedent.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Unlike the congressional intent to broaden the government\rquote s appeal rights, Guam\rquote s legislative history does not reflect an intent by the Legislature to expand the People\rquote s right to appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In fact, this court has recognized that \'93section 130.20 is a jurisdictional statute which will be strictly construed.\'94 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People v. Superior Court (Bruneman)}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 24 \'b6 9.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 While Guam law does not expressly preclude an appeal from a trial court\rquote s grant of a Motion for Acquittal, Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 contains the bases for the People to appeal, and this provision does not include an appeal from a trial court\rquote s grant of a Motion for Acquittal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Moreover, no other statute allows the People to appeal from such a decision.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Therefore, the People may not appeal here because there is no statutory authority to support an appeal.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Accepting the People\rquote s contrary interpretation would result in a liberal construction of the statute, and would run contrary to this court\rquote s prior statement in }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Bruneman}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 .}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Our result here is underscored by }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Lujan}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 28, where we addressed this same issue and}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 emphasized the rule of strict construction:}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 6{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 6}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 The People distinguish the facts of }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Lujan}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 1998 Guam 28, to argue that it does not establish binding precedent on this court. We reject the People\rquote s argument. Although }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Lujan}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 has different facts, the case nevertheless presents our interpretation of Guam\rquote s jurisdictional statutes as enacted by the Guam Legislature.}}}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Despite statutory provisions expressing a broad grant of jurisdiction, }{\cs67\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 see}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 7 GCA \'a7\'a7 3107 and 3108 (1994), where other statutory provisions contain specific limitations on the ability of a party to pursue appellate relief, we must respect those restrictions. . . . }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Regardless of our broad jurisdiction, we will not consider an issue which a party is statutorily not permitted to advance.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \'b6 9 (emphasis added).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Comparing this court\rquote s statement in }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Lujan}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 to the Supreme Court\rquote s recognition in }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Wilson}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 of Congress\rquote intent to broaden the federal government\rquote s right to appeal reveals that the reasoning in the federal cases cannot be applied to Guam.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Cf. State ex rel Yates}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 512 N.E. 2d 343, 345-46 (Ohio 1987) (\'93hol d[ing] that a judgment of acquittal by a trial judge . . . is a final verdict within the meaning of [state law] and is not appealable by the state as a matter of right or by leave to appeal pursuant to a statute.\'94).}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 2.}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 California law}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [13]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People cite two California statutes as impliedly allowing this appeal, and argue that because California Penal Code \'a7\'a7 1118.1 and 1118.2 prohibit the government from appealing a motion for judgment of acquittal before the jury verdict, then impliedly, the government may appeal a motion after the jury verdict.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 7{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 7}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 California Penal Code \'a7 1118.2 (Westlaw through all 2005 laws, Governor\rquote s Reorganization Plans No. 1 & 2, and all propositions appearing on the Nov. 8, 2005 ballot (2005)) states in relevant part: \'93 A judgment of acquittal entered pursuant to . . .[section] 1118.1 shall not be appealable and is a bar to any other prosecution for the same offense.\'94 California Penal Code \'a7 1118.1 (Westlaw through all 2005 laws, Governor\rquote s Reorganization Plans No. 1 & 2, and all propositions appearing on the Nov. 8, 2005 ballot (2005)) states: \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\b\fs20\insrsid3632714 Trial by jury; entry of judgment of acquittal for insufficient evidence.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 In a case tried before a jury, the court on motion of the defendant or on its own motion, at the c lose of the evidence on either side and before the case is submitted to the jury for decision, shall order the entry of a judgment of acquittal of one or more of the offenses . . . if the evidence then before the court is insufficient to sustain a convict ion . . . .}}}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People fail to cite any authority, other than its interpretation of these statutes, and we find the reliance on these statutes is misplaced.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [14]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab In fact, one California appellate court\rquote s interpretation of these provisions directly undercuts the People\rquote s argument.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People v. Witt}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 125 Cal. Rptr. 653, 659 (Ct. App. 1975), the court stated:}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \'93A motion made pursuant to Penal Code section 1118.1 is an evidentiary motion going to the sufficiency of the evidence to sustain a conviction of the offense charged, and, if granted, operates as a judgment on the merits.\'94}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Therefore, even if the People\rquote s argument were accepted and the motion for a judgment of acquittal may be appealed prior to the jury verdict, the trial court\rquote s grant of the motion in this case is a \'93judgment on the merits\'94 and therefore, there is no order \'93after\'94 the judgment that would allow an appeal pursuant to 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(3). }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [ 15]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab We instead believe it is more rational to look at California Penal Code \'a7 1238, which is the source of 8 GCA 130.20.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 8{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 8}{\insrsid3632714 }{\fs20\insrsid3632714 California Penal Code \'a7 1238 currently states: \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0 {\b\fs20\insrsid3632714 1238. Appeal by people}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 (a) An appeal may be taken by the people from any of the following: \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 (1) An order setting aside all or any portion of the indictment, information, or complaint. \par (2) An order sustaining a demurrer to all or any portion of the indictment, accusation, or information. \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14242062 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 (3) An order granting a new trial. \par (4) An order arresting judgment. \par (5) An order made after judgment, affecting the substantial rights of the people. \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 (6) An order modifying the verdict or finding by reducing the degree of the offense or the punishment imposed or modifying the offense to a lesser offense. \par (7) An order dismissing a case prior to trial made upon motion of the court pursuant to Section 1385 whenever such order is based upon an order granting the defendant's motion to return or suppress property or evidence made at a special hearing as provided in this code. \par (8) An order or judgment dismissing or otherwise terminating all or any portion of th e action including such an order or judgment after a verdict or finding of guilty or an order or judgment entered before the defendant has been placed in jeopardy or where the defendant has waived jeopardy. \par (9) An order denying the motion of the people to reinstate the complaint or a portion thereof pursuant to Section 871.5. \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid14242062 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 (10) The imposition of an unlawful sentence, . . . \par (11) An order recusing the district attorney pursuant to Section 1424. \par (b) If, pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a), the people prosecute an appeal to decision, or any review of such decision, it shall be binding upon them and they shall be prohibited from refiling the case which was appealed. \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 California Penal Code \'a71238 (Westlaw through all 2005 laws, Governor\rquote s Reorganization Plans No. 1 & 2, and all propositions appearing on the Nov. 8, 2005 ballot (2005)).}}}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Even assuming }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 arguendo}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 that we adopt the argument that Double Jeopardy is not implicated because reversal on appeal would simply reinstate the prior jury verdict, 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(5) still does not bestow us with jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 An examination of California\rquote s legislative history concerning Penal Code \'a7 1238 makes this abundantly clear.}{\super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 9{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 9}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 We have recognized that when Guam statutes are derived from statutes of other jurisdictions, we may be guided by that jurisdiction\rquote s interpretation. \'93 Generally, when a legislature adopts a statute which is identical or similar to one in effect in another jurisdiction, it is presumed that the adopting jurisdiction applies the construction placed on the statute by the originating jurisdiction. . . .\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Sumitomo Constr. Co. v. Zhong Ye, Inc.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 1997 Guam 8 \'b6 9 (citing Sutherland\rquote s Stat. Const. \'a752.01 (5th ed.));}{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 see also Torres v. Torres}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 2005 Guam 22 \'b6 33; }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 People v. Superior Court (Laxamana)}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 2001 Guam 26 \'b6 8. The other jurisdiction\rquote s interpretation, however, is \'93only persuasive and does not bind or control\'94 our analysis.\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Sumitomo Constr. Co.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 1997 Guam 8 \'b6 7 (citing Sutherland\rquote s Stat. Const. \'a752.01 (5th ed.)).}}}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [16]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Prior to 1998, California Penal Code \'a7 1238(a)(8) was identical to Guam\rquote s 8 GCA \'a7 130.20(a)(5).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In 1998 California amended certain portions of section 1238, and legislative history reveals that drafters believed that the amendments would:}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Allow[] the People to appeal from an order setting aside only a portion of the charging document, }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 as well as an order or judgment after a verdict of guilty or finding of guilty}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 .}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Specifically, th[e] bill provides the People may appeal from:}{ \insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 . . .}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 3) An order or judgment d ismissing or otherwise terminating all or any portion of the action including such an order or judgment after a verdict or finding of guilty . . . .}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Calif. Assembly Comm. on Public Safety, SB 1850 Bill Analysis, Hr\rquote g May 12, 1998 (available at htttp://www.leginfo.ca.gov) (emphasis added).}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The California Assembly acknowledged that the version of section 1238, prior to the suggested amendments, did not allow for the People to appeal from an order or judgment dismissing the case after the jury had returned a guilty verdict.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Calif. Assembly Comm. on Public Safety, SB 1850 Bill Analysis, Hr\rquote g May 12, 1998.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The California Senate also noted the limitation, stating that \'93the prosecution cannot currently appeal from the dismissal of a charge after a guilty verdict.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Calif. Senate Comm. on Public Safety, SB 1850 Bill Analysis, Hr\rquote g April 14, 1998 (available at htttp://www.leginfo.ca.gov).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Both committees envisioned that the amendment constituted an expansion of the People\rquote s right to appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Consequently, the legislators amended California Penal Code \'a7 1238(a)(8) to specify that appeals would be allowed from \'93such an order or judgment after a verdict or finding of guilty or an order or judgment entered before the defendant has been placed in jeopardy or where the defendant has waived jeopardy.\'94}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Cal. Penal Code \'a7 1238(a)(8).}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [17]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The expansion of the government\rquote s right to appeal was recognized in }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 People v. Salgado}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 10 5 Cal. Rptr. 2d 373 (Ct. App. 2001), where, in facts somewhat similar to the case herein, a jury returned a guilty verdict on charges of carjacking and assault with a firearm.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 After the verdict, the trial court questioned the sufficiency of the evidence on the carjacking charge, granted its own motion for a new trial on that count, and immediately dismissed the charge.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People appealed.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The appellate court acknowledged that \'93[p]rior to 1998, section 1238, subdivision (a)(8) did not permit appeals afte r a defendant had been placed in jeopardy unless there was an express or implied waiver of jeopardy.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 at 379.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Because of the amendment in 1998, the court concluded, }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 inter alia}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , that the People could appeal pursuant to \'a7 1238(a)(8) because the trial court\rquote s dismissal \'93occurred after a guilty verdict, [and thus] there is now express statutory authority for the People\rquote s appeal of the dismissal of the carjacking count.\'94}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Id.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The rationale was that a successful appeal would not place the defendant in jeop ardy, because the result would only reinstate the jury\rquote s guilty verdict.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [18]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Unlike California, the Guam Legislature has not amended 8 GCA \'a7 130.20.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 We are guided, then, by the pre-1998 version of California Penal Code \'a7 1238(a)(8).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 As discussed above, the California drafters and courts have interpreted the pre-1998 version as denying the People from appealing.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See Salgado}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 105 Cal. Rptr. 2d}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 373.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Unless and until the Guam Legislature amends 8 GCA \'a7 130.20, this provision does not allow the People to a ppeal from a trial court\rquote s grant of a Motion for Acquittal after a jury\rquote s guilty verdict.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [19]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Moreover, this court has interpreted jurisdiction narrowly.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Lujan}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 28 \'b6 9 (\'93[W]here other statutory provisions contain specific limitations on the ability of a party to pursue appellate relief, we must respect those restrictions.\'94); }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Bruneman}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 24 \'b6 9\~(\'93[S]ection 130.20 is a jurisdictional statute which will be strictly construed.\'94). }{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [20]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Based on these reasons, we hold that there is no statutory authority for the People to bring the instant appeal.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 B.\tab Motion for Reconsideration}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [21]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People next argue that it should be allowed to appeal the Judgment of Acquittal, because during proceedings below, the People would have been allowed to appeal from the trial court\rquote s decision on a Motion for Reconsideration.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People argue it would be an unreasonable result if we were allowed to review a judgment of acquittal after an order is made in a Motion for Reconsideration, but foreclosed from}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 ever ruling on a judgment of acquittal in the absence of such a motion.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 The People further argue that it would be unreasonable if the People were required to \'93perform busywork filing motions for reconsideration that are not going to be granted.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Opp \rquote n to Def-Apellee\rquote s Mot. to Dismiss for Want of Jurisdiction, p. 6.}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [22]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab The People cite no authority to support this argument, relying instead on cases holding that a trial court may reconsider its rulings; however, it is undisputed that the trial court may reconsider its rulings.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In the overall picture, it may make sense that this court should be allowed to rule on a trial court action.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 It is undeniable, nevertheless, that jurisdiction may be exercised only as allowed by statute.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \'93We have consistently held that this court\rquote s appellate jurisdiction is limited to those matters which the legislature permits us to review.\'94}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Lujan}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 28 \'b6 8.}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In some cases, Guam law does not permit review by regular appeal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Laxamana}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 2001 Guam 26 \'b6 23 (acknowledging that \'93[n]o provision within 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 permits the People to appeal a pretrial discovery order\'94 but ultimately holding the court could exercise writ jurisdiction); }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Borja v. Bitanga}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 29 \'b6 14 (acknowledging that \'93[t]he right to appeal is limited and n ot available to a defendant denied habeas relief\'94 but nonetheless treating the appeal as a writ proceeding).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Here, we find no statutory basis for exercising appellate jurisdiction.} {\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 C.}{\b\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Writ jurisdiction}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [23]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab Finally, the People request that if jurisdiction is lacking pursuant to Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20, then this court may alternatively treat the instant appeal as a petition for an extraordinary writ.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Title 7 GCA, Chapter 31, Article 2 (2005) (governing writs of mandate).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 This court has, when faced with improperly filed appeals from denials of writs of habeas corpus, elected to treat those appeals as original petitions for writs of habeas corpus.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 See e.g.}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Borja}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 29 \'b6 14 (\'93[W]e have the ability to elect to treat their appeals as original petit ions for writs of habeas corpus filed with the court.\'94);}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 White v. Klitzkie}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1998 Guam 31 \'b6 13 (\'93 Although this matter was filed as an appeal of an order denying habeas relief, we elect to treat this matter as an original petition for a writ of habeas corpus.\'94); }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Naron v. Bitanga}{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 , 1999 Guam 21 \'b6 4 (\'93In its discretion, this court may elect to treat an appeal of the denial of a Petition for a Writ of Habeas Corpus as an original petition for the same relief.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 We elect to exercise such discretion in the instant matter . . . .\'94) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 These cases, however, are }{ \i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 habeas corpus}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 proceedings involving }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 pro se}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 petitioners who failed to recognize this court\rquote s original writ jurisdiction.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In these }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 habeas corpus}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 cases, it was undisputed that this court had jurisdiction.} {\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 In contrast, the parties here are represented by counsel and there is a dispute regarding whether writ jurisdiction would be proper.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{ \insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 We distinguish the }{\i\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 habeas corpus}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 proceedings from this case, and therefore, decline to treat this appeal as a petition for an extraordinary writ.}{ \super\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 10{\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3632714 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\super\insrsid3632714 10}{\insrsid3632714 }{ \fs20\insrsid3632714 We note that in }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 State v. Wilson}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 82 P.3d 797 (Ariz. Ct. App. 2004), the court elected to treat an appeal as a \'93special action\'94 (or petition for extraordinary writ), stating that \'93a trial court\rquote s grant of a post-verdict judgment of acquittal is subject to appellate review and reversal if the court abused its discretion.\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Id. }{\fs20\insrsid3632714 at 800. In another factually-similar case, however, a California appellate court in }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Fadelli Concrete Pumping, Inc. v. Appellate Dep\rquote t}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 40 Cal. Rptr, 2d 757 (Ct. App. 1995), held that the government could not appeal from the trial court\rquote s imposition of a fine, and furthermore, that transforming the appeal into a petition for extraordinary writ was improper. Moreover, the }{ \i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Fadelli}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 court strongly counseled against granting extraordinary jurisdiction: \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 The statutory limitations on the People\rquote s right to appeal . . . are substantive limitations on review of trial court determinations in criminal trials. }{ \i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Because these limitations are substantive, the People may not routinely circumvent the limitation on appeals by attempting to seek review by extraordinary writ.}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 \'93 To permit the People to resort to an extraordinary writ to review where there is no right to appeal would be to give the People the very appeal which the Legislature has denied to them.\'94 }{\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 People v. Superior Court, supra,}{ \fs20\insrsid3632714 69 Cal. 2d at p. 499, 72 Cal. Rptr. 330, 446 P.2d 138.) \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\insrsid3632714 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\i\fs20\insrsid3632714 Fadelli}{\fs20\insrsid3632714 , 40 Cal. Rptr. 2d at 761 (citations omitted, emphasis added). Because we decline to treat this appeal as a wri t proceeding, however, we do not rule on the propriety of such an action.}}}{\insrsid12933136 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 III.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\insrsid12933136 \par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12933136 {\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 [24]}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 \tab We hold that Title 8 GCA \'a7 130.20 does not provide grounds for appellate review of a trial court \rquote s grant of a Motion for Judgment of Acquittal.}{\insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Natividad\rquote s Motion to Dismiss is }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 GRANTED}{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 .}{ \insrsid12933136\charrsid12933136 }{\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 Therefore, this appeal is hereby }{\b\insrsid3632714\charrsid12933136 DISMISSED.}{\insrsid12933136 \par }}