{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang1033\deflangfe1033{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}{\f35\fswiss\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 020b0604030504040204}Tahoma;}
{\f36\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;}{\f37\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f39\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f40\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}
{\f41\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);}{\f42\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f43\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f44\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}
{\f386\fswiss\fcharset238\fprq2 Tahoma CE;}{\f387\fswiss\fcharset204\fprq2 Tahoma Cyr;}{\f389\fswiss\fcharset161\fprq2 Tahoma Greek;}{\f390\fswiss\fcharset162\fprq2 Tahoma Tur;}{\f391\fswiss\fcharset177\fprq2 Tahoma (Hebrew);}
{\f392\fswiss\fcharset178\fprq2 Tahoma (Arabic);}{\f393\fswiss\fcharset186\fprq2 Tahoma Baltic;}{\f394\fswiss\fcharset163\fprq2 Tahoma (Vietnamese);}{\f395\fswiss\fcharset222\fprq2 Tahoma (Thai);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;
\red0\green255\blue255;\red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;
\red128\green128\blue0;\red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{\*\cs10 
\additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\*\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tblind0\tblindtype3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext15 \styrsid6975169 header;}{\s16\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar
\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext16 \styrsid6975169 footer;}{
\s17\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext17 \ssemihidden \styrsid14636666 footnote text;}{\*\cs18 \additive \super 
\sbasedon10 \ssemihidden \styrsid14636666 footnote reference;}{\*\cs19 \additive \sbasedon10 \styrsid15075086 page number;}{\*\ts20\tsrowd\trbrdrt\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrl\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrb\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrr\brdrs\brdrw10 \trbrdrh\brdrs\brdrw10 
\trbrdrv\brdrs\brdrw10 \trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tblind0\tblindtype3\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv 
\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \sbasedon11 \snext20 \styrsid4267847 Table Grid;}{
\s21\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f35\fs16\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext21 \ssemihidden \styrsid16515448 Balloon Text;}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid156930\rsid340752
\rsid469490\rsid485793\rsid536813\rsid798227\rsid1188033\rsid1210139\rsid1248353\rsid1470905\rsid1921215\rsid1981676\rsid1987724\rsid2165143\rsid2166291\rsid2181995\rsid2371046\rsid2451910\rsid2492303\rsid2497992\rsid2517826\rsid2778567\rsid2825055
\rsid2914642\rsid2961055\rsid3017979\rsid3279457\rsid3285231\rsid3617510\rsid3619227\rsid3763223\rsid3940999\rsid3997699\rsid4026687\rsid4135581\rsid4267847\rsid4399476\rsid4403435\rsid4458700\rsid4925826\rsid5191270\rsid5245361\rsid5246961\rsid5328618
\rsid5517900\rsid5644078\rsid6120700\rsid6182886\rsid6192845\rsid6360089\rsid6361216\rsid6442866\rsid6696294\rsid6975169\rsid7016874\rsid7224253\rsid7292460\rsid7348861\rsid7354263\rsid7416183\rsid7484571\rsid8289163\rsid8484698\rsid8924971\rsid8984913
\rsid9044190\rsid9187013\rsid9188460\rsid9311009\rsid9440049\rsid9444912\rsid9463741\rsid9464678\rsid9468782\rsid9517335\rsid9590010\rsid9902116\rsid9904544\rsid10040829\rsid10114624\rsid10121089\rsid10379463\rsid10498102\rsid10517091\rsid10572659
\rsid10574733\rsid10630943\rsid10688625\rsid10712607\rsid10777941\rsid10778850\rsid10827056\rsid10832380\rsid10892937\rsid10910096\rsid10957082\rsid11294695\rsid11304017\rsid11534977\rsid11563161\rsid11566513\rsid11670603\rsid11689314\rsid11755151
\rsid11826356\rsid11890056\rsid11932647\rsid12126054\rsid12196409\rsid12279390\rsid12454052\rsid12657271\rsid12730403\rsid12913315\rsid12941225\rsid13072533\rsid13119792\rsid13393444\rsid13771706\rsid13785915\rsid13900662\rsid13914634\rsid14121455
\rsid14163544\rsid14231560\rsid14306639\rsid14314927\rsid14422303\rsid14431798\rsid14506308\rsid14622444\rsid14623599\rsid14636666\rsid14640921\rsid14645944\rsid14752555\rsid14773673\rsid14830089\rsid14944675\rsid15075086\rsid15093399\rsid15161433
\rsid15360262\rsid15366622\rsid15621900\rsid15695353\rsid15735775\rsid15860554\rsid15927635\rsid15949538\rsid15992727\rsid16205596\rsid16323795\rsid16397485\rsid16473465\rsid16515448\rsid16676674\rsid16677487\rsid16715349}
{\*\generator Microsoft Word 10.0.6829;}{\info{\title Macris v. Swavely, CVA07-022}{\subject civil}{\author Supreme Court of Guam}{\operator Talevakarua Laniana}{\creatim\yr2008\mo11\dy3\hr10\min23}{\revtim\yr2008\mo11\dy3\hr10\min26}
{\printim\yr2008\mo10\dy29\hr16\min28}{\version3}{\edmins4}{\nofpages9}{\nofwords3775}{\nofchars21519}{\*\company Judiciary of Guam}{\nofcharsws25244}{\vern16393}{\*\password 00000000}}{\*\xmlnstbl {\xmlns1 urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags}}
\paperw12240\paperh15840\margl1440\margr1440\margt1440\margb1008\gutter0 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\grfdocevents0\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dgmargin\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1440\dgvorigin1440\dghshow1
\dgvshow1\jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\splytwnine\ftnlytwnine\htmautsp\nolnhtadjtbl\useltbaln\alntblind\lytcalctblwd\lyttblrtgr\lnbrkrule\nobrkwrptbl\snaptogridincell\allowfieldendsel\wrppunct\asianbrkrule\rsidroot6975169 \fet0
{\*\wgrffmtfilter 013f}{\*\ftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10040829 \chftnsep 
\par }}{\*\ftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10040829 \chftnsepc 
\par }}{\*\aftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10040829 \chftnsep 
\par }}{\*\aftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid10040829 \chftnsepc 
\par }}\sectd \psz1\linex0\headery1440\endnhere\titlepg\sectlinegrid360\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid4267847\sftnbj {\headerr \pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx9360\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2961055 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017 Macris v. Swavely}{\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017 , Opinion \tab \tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\cs19\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017  PAGE }
}{\fldrslt {\cs19\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid2825055 9}}}\sectd \linex0\endnhere\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\cs19\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017  of }{\field{\*\fldinst {\cs19\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017  NUMPAGES }}{\fldrslt {
\cs19\fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid9044190 14}}}\sectd \linex0\endnhere\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj {\cs19\fs20\insrsid12941225 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\brdrb\brdrs\brdrw10\brsp20 \tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2961055 {\cs19\fs20\insrsid12941225\charrsid11304017 
\par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15075086 {\fs22\insrsid12941225\charrsid15075086 
\par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}}
{\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8
\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 GEORGE P. MACRIS
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 Plaintiff-Appellant
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 v.
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 DANIEL D. SWAVELY
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 Defendant-Appellee
\par 
\par Supreme Court Case No. CVA07-022
\par Superior Court Case No. CV0972-03
\par 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 OPINION
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 Filed:}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 October 30, 2008
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 Cite as:}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 2008 Guam }{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 18}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and submitted on July 17, 2008
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1188033\charrsid2825055 Hag\'e5t\'f1a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 , Guam
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }\trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts20\trgaph108\trleft-108\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind0\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt
\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil \cellx4680\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil \cellx9468
\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\pararsid2825055\yts20 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 
Appearing for Plaintiff-Appellant:
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 Seaton Woodley, III. }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 Esq}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 .\tab 
\par Ste. 102, Tanaka Bldg., Rte. #4
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, GU 96910
\par 
\par \cell }{\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 Appearing for Defendant-Appellee:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 
\par Jon A. Visosky, }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 Esq}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 .
\par Dooley Roberts & Fowler LLP
\par Ste. 201, Orlean Pacific Plaza
\par 865 S Marine Corps Dr.
\par Tamuning, GU 96913\cell }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 
\trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow \ts20\trgaph108\trleft-108\trftsWidth1\trftsWidthB3\trautofit1\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\tbllkhdrrows\tbllklastrow\tbllkhdrcols\tbllklastcol\tblind0\tblindtype3 \clvertalt\clbrdrt
\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil \cellx4680\clvertalt\clbrdrt\brdrtbl \clbrdrl\brdrtbl \clbrdrb\brdrtbl \clbrdrr\brdrtbl \cltxlrtb\clftsWidth3\clwWidth4788\clshdrawnil \cellx9468
\row }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 BEFORE:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 ROBERT J. TORRES}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13900662\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055  Chief Justice; F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13900662\charrsid2825055 , Associate Justice;}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055  KATH}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 E}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 RINE }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13900662\charrsid2825055 A. MARAMAN, Associate Justice}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 CARBULLIDO, }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 J.:
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6975169\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [1]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 Plaintiff-Appellant George P. Macris}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6192845\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 appeals from a Superior Court judgment ordering him to pay Defendant-Appellee Daniel D. Swavely\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6192845\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 reasonable attorney\rquote s fees and }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid485793\charrsid2825055 court }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 costs}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
Macris}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055  a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 r}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 
gues that the trial court erred in finding that he had }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 filed suit under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 for the purpose of harassing Swavely, and contends that the trial court ignored evidence that Macris sued Swavely to enforce compliance with the federal Fair Housing Act.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid485793\charrsid2825055 Swavely requests that this court affirm the trial court\rquote s judgment }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 
as well as award him additional attorney\rquote s fees and costs to cover the expenses incurred as a result of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055  appeal of the trial court\rquote s ruling.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 We hold that the trial court
\rquote s finding was not clearly erroneous and therefore affirm the trial court\rquote s judgment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 We further order Macris to pay Swavely
\rquote s reasonable }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16205596\charrsid2825055 and necessary }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 appellate attorney\rquote s fees}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16205596\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055  in an amount determined by the Superior Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  upon remand
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16205596\charrsid2825055 , as well as }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid485793\charrsid2825055 court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16205596\charrsid2825055 costs}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 I.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15075086\charrsid2825055 FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [2]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 In early 1999, Defendant-Appellee Daniel}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055  D. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 Swavely}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 contacted Plaintiff-Appellant George P. Macris}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
and a small number of other potential investors regarding a proposed luxury condominium project to be located }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 along}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055  Tumon B
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 ay}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
Swavely provided a written description of this proposed project\emdash which eventually became known as the Villa Kanton Tasi (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 VKT}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 )\emdash to every potential investor.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 According to the proposal, VKT would consist of a 12-story tower with 22 units (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 two}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055  on each floor) on floors #2 through #12, with the first level reserved for common area amenities and parking.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 Each investor would receive one unit.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
These units were planned to have a total gross area of 2,250 square feet }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 per unit }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
and be identical in width and depth, but did not include height specifications.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 Owners were to }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 share }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 equally }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 in }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 the costs and expenses associated with the project, but would be individually responsible for the cost of design and layout of their individual units.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 On March 4, 1999, Swavely, Macris, and the other owners became members of the Beach Front Development LLC (}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 BFD}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 
), with Swavely serving as the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 initial}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16677487\charrsid2825055 , uncompensated manager of the organization.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10777941\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [3]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid156930\charrsid2825055 No }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 representations that VKT would contain a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  terrace}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid156930\charrsid2825055  were made by Swavely, or were included in any version of BFD\rquote s Articles of Organization, Swavely\rquote s original written proposal, or the purchase and sale agreement}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
Though members discussed the possibility of constructing a rooftop terrace as early as March and April 1999, it remained a controversial issue and no consensus was reached by the time Macris joined BFD.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [4]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 \tab All versions of BFD\rquote 
s Articles of Organization expressly provided that, with a few narrow exceptions, all decisions shall be made by}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055  a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
 majority vote of the members.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 On May 26, 1999, a majority of BFD\rquote s members approved a }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  terrace, as well as raised ceilings or }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 pop-ups}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  over the two units located on the 12th
 floor, one of which belonged to Swavely.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 The additional costs of these pop-ups were to be paid by the owners of the two 12th floor units.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  proxy 
was present at this meeting and all members, including Macris, were provided with minutes of the meeting and information on how to obtain full-size tower and floor plans with the included changes.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [5]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 \tab Through the end of 2000, many meetings were held about the status of the construction, including }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 that of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 the rooftop terrace and the pop-ups.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 Macris or his proxy attended most of these meetings}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055  but}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
 in early 2001 Macris }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 questioned the legitimacy of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 the pop-ups }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11304017\charrsid2825055 and}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  the specifications of the rooftop terrace, which was not designed to be accessible }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 by}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  an elevator.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 At this point, Macris began to share his strong disagreement on these issues with Swavely and BFD\rquote s other members.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 Macris actively protested the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  t
errace, arguing that, as designed, it would not be in compliance with the Fair Housing Act (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 FHA}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 ) or the Americans with Disabilities Act.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 Once it became clear that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14314927\charrsid2825055 BFD would not construct the terrace }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055  desired specifications, Macris launched an 
e}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14314927\charrsid2825055 mail campaign attacking Swavely.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [6]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 T}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 he BFD members, in response to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
 actions, held a re-vote on the pop-ups issue, which resulted in the pop-ups being re-approved by a majority vote of all members.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 
After this vote, Macris filed a complaint with the Department of Land Management (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 DLM}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6696294\charrsid2825055 ) regarding the pop-ups, which resulted in a DLM letter stating that the pop-ups were consistent with prior DLM approval of the project.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 Macris also continued to press that BFD adopt his alternative layout for the proposed rooftop terrace.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 After BFD\rquote s legal counsel concluded that elevator access for the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055  terrace was necessary to comply with the FHA, BFD\rquote s members, aware that extending the elevator to the roof would cause significant delay and additional expens
es, voted not to proceed with the rooftop terrace, but to construct infrastructure capable of supporting a terrace should the VKT Homeowner\rquote s Association choose to build one in the future.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 Macris, not content with th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454052\charrsid2825055 e}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454052\charrsid2825055 e}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055  outcome}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454052\charrsid2825055 s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 , threatened to sue Swavely under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 DTPA}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 ), 5 GCA \'a7 32101 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 et seq}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12454052\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [7]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1188033\charrsid2825055 On July 3, 2003 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 Macris filed }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1188033\charrsid2825055 a complaint}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 
, alleging that Swavely had engaged in unconscionable actions prohibited by the DTPA.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5644078\charrsid2825055 
Swavely submitted an answer denying the allegations and }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 initiated a counterclaim for attorney\rquote s fees and costs pursuant to 5 GCA \'a7 32107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 Both }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055  DTPA action and Swavely\rquote s counterclaim came before the Superior Court for a bench trial.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 T}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid485793\charrsid2825055 he Superior Court issued }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 
findings of fact and conclusions of law }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14314927\charrsid2825055 holding}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 
 that Macris failed to prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that Swavely engaged in unconscionable actions prohibited by the DTPA.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 
The trial court further found that, because }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055  lawsui
t was without merit and had been filed with the intent to harass Swavely, reasonable attorney\rquote s fees and costs should be awarded to Swavely pursuant to 5 GCA \'a7 32107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 The Superior Court\rquote s judgment was entered on }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 September 27}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 , 2007, and Macris filed a timely Notice of Appeal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 II.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15075086\charrsid2825055 JURISDICTION}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [8]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055 
This court has jurisdiction to hear appeals of final judgments entered by the Superior Court of Guam}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 48 U.S.C. \'a7 1424-1(a)(2) (West through Pub. L. 110-}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 350}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 
 (excluding P.L. 110-}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 329, 110-343, 110-344, and 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 10-}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 346}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 ) (200}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 ));}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 7 GCA \'a7\'a7 3107(b),}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055  3108(a)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7484571\charrsid2825055 , 25101, 25102(a)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9444912\charrsid2825055  (2005).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 III.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15075086\charrsid2825055 DISCUSSION}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10574733\charrsid2825055 A. The Trial Court\rquote s Finding of Harassment Was Not Clearly Erroneous
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4267847\charrsid2825055 [9]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 The DTPA provides that, }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 [o]n a finding by the court that an action under this chapter was groundless a
nd brought in bad faith, or brought for the purpose of harassment, the court shall award to the innocent party reasonable and necessary attorneys\rquote  fees and court costs.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 5 GCA \'a7 32107}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055  (2005)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 Determination of a party\rquote s intent is a pure question of fact.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 Pullman-Standard, v. Swint}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 , 456 U.S. 273, 287-88 (1982).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 Upon appellate review, findings of fact }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 
are reviewed in a highly deferential manner and will only be set aside if clearly erroneous.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 Zahnen v. Limitiaco}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 , 2008 Guam 5 \'b6 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055  (citing }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 
In re Application of Leon Guerrero}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 , 2005 Guam 1 \'b6 15)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 Under this standard, the appellate court affords deference to the trial court to judge the credibility of witnesses.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 Jenkins v. Montallana}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 , 2007 Guam 12 \'b6 9.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 A finding of fact is }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 clearly erroneous}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055  if }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 
the reviewing court on the entire evidence is left with the definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 
Fargo Pac., Inc. v. Korando Corp.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 , 2006 Guam 22 \'b6 22.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 
When evaluating the trial court\rquote s judgment, the appellate court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 
must examine the evidence in the light most favorable to the successful party, resolve any controverted fact in favor of the successful party, and give the successful party the benefit of every reasonable inference from the evidence.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 Id.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055  at \'b6 23}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055  (citing }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 Guam United Warehouse Corp. v. DeWitt Transp. Servs. of Guam, Inc.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 , 2003 Guam 20 \'b6 41)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 The appellate court cannot merely substitute its judgment for that of the trial court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 People v. Flores}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3763223\charrsid2825055 , 2004 Guam 18 \'b6 7.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11932647\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [10]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403435\charrsid2825055 \tab Sufficient evidence exists to support a finding that Macris filed suit with the intent to harass Swavely.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403435\charrsid2825055 In its Findings of Fact & Conclusions of Law, the trial court cite}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 d}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403435\charrsid2825055  numerous instances of Macris bringing forth claims without evidentiary support and concluded, based on witness testimony and other evidence introduced at trial, }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055 that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055  lawsuit was an }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055 evolution in strategy}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055  in }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055  ongoing efforts to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10832380\charrsid2825055 force BFD to }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055 create a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055  terrace accessible by elevator}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10832380\charrsid2825055  and stop construction of the pop-ups}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2371046\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055 ER at }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9464678\charrsid2825055 13}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9463741\charrsid2825055  (Finds. Fact & Concl. L.).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 Even Macris has not gone so far as to say that no plausible evidence exists to support the trial court\rquote 
s finding of harassment, for Macris concedes that he }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 came out second best in the credibility determinations}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055  and that the trial court, as the finder of fact, had the discretion to believe one witness over another.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1188033\charrsid2825055 Appellant\rquote s Reply Br. at}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055  4}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1188033\charrsid2825055  (May 1, 2007)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 Though it is possible that another finder of fact may have evaluated }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055  credibility differently, in the absence of a }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 
definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055  the trial court\rquote s decision should not be disturbed.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 Fargo Pac., Inc.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7348861\charrsid2825055 , 2006 Guam 22 \'b6 22.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4403435\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [11]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055 \tab Macris argues that, while the trial court had the right to believe Swavely over him, }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16473465\charrsid2825055 we }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055 should nevertheless overturn the finding of harassment because the trial court purportedly }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3619227\charrsid2825055 ignored evidence that Macris was trying}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055  to enforce a policy of non-discrimination against future }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 VKT }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055 residents }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 w}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055 ith disabilities and to enforce compliance with the FHA.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14636666\charrsid2825055 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\s17\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12730403 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs18\super\insrsid12941225 \chftn }{\insrsid12941225 
 Swavely has argued that this court should not consider this argument because it is inappropriate for Macris to raise Swavely\rquote s alleged violations of the FHA for the first time on appeal.  It is well established that, as a general rule, \'93
this court will not entertain an issue raised for the first time on appeal.\'94  }{\i\insrsid12941225\charrsid14636666 Sinlao v. Sinlao}{\insrsid12941225 , 2005 {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname place}}Guam{\*\xmlclose} 24 \'b6
 30.  We do not believe that Macris is raising a new issue, for he has not requested that this court determine Swavely\rquote s l
iability under the FHA.  Rather, Macris is setting forth an argument that his subjective belief that Swavely violated the FHA should negate a finding of intent to harass.  Thus, we may consider Macris\rquote 
 argument, to the extent that our analysis is limited to the issue of Macris\rquote  intent and not Swavely\rquote s actual liability under federal law.}}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 However, the trial court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 did not ignore this}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055  evidence.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 The trial court expressly acknowledged that Macris }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 actively protested the roof top access, arguing that it was not in compliance with}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  . . . }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055 t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 he Fair Housing Act}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14944675\charrsid2825055  . . . becaus}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 e it was not handicap accessible.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 ER}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 tab }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 4}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  at }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 7 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16397485\charrsid2825055 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055 Finds. Fact & Concl. L.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 )}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 The trial court also recognized }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055  other actions that could be construed as attempts to get Swavely to follow th
e law, such as filing a complaint with the DLM claiming that the pop-ups were not consistent with previous government approvals.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055 Id. }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055 at 8}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1248353\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [12]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 \tab The record indicates that the trial court, rather than ignoring this evidence, sim
ply interpreted it in a way not favorable to Macris.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 The trial court characterized }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055  activities as all part of }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055  evolving }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 strategy to ensure that}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055  BFD and Swavely adopted}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055  his position}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055  on the pop-ups and rooftop terrace.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 As the trial court describes,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11755151\charrsid2825055 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 When Plaintiff\rquote s attempt to secure a roof top terrace by a majority of members failed during initial meetings, Plaintiff sought Defendant\rquote s assistance as an ally or friend.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 However, Defendant informed Plaintiff that the project was a continuing effort and modifications were to be made pursuant to the collective
\rquote s approval.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 Subsequently, Plaintiff questioned Defendant\rquote 
s ability to remain objective, his qualifications, and personal motives.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 After unsuccessful attempts to convince members to adopt s
imilar views of Defendant and Defendant\rquote s role in the modifications, Plaintiff switched to legal tactics.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 
He informed members of violations with federal regulations (implying that Defendant should have known of these violations due to his wife\rquote s legal bac
kground), filed complaints with respective government agencies, and threatened to sue Defendant unless Defendant submitted to Plaintiff\rquote s requests.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 Thus, the Court finds substantial evidence that Plaintiff has used the instant action to harass Defendant.
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055 Id.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 at}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055  13-14.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 
The trial court, as the finder of fact, is entitled to deference from this court with respect to how it has judged the credibility of the witnesses}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 . Coffey v. Gov\rquote t of Guam}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 , 1997 Guam 14 \'b6 19.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 While it is possible that a different fin
der of fact could have reached a different conclusion, sufficient evidence exists to support a finding that Macris initiated his lawsuit for the improper purpose of harassing Swavely.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 At trial, the initial VKT proposal, the purchase agreement, and the Fir
st and Second Operating Agreements were introduced into evidence, none of which indicated that a rooftop terrace was among VKT\rquote s planned common area amenities or that the units had any height specifications.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 S}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 upplemental Excerpts of Record (}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 ), tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  14}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15621900\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055 at 181-84 }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15621900\charrsid2825055 (Def\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055 s. }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Ex. 41, }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15621900\charrsid2825055 Letter from Dan Swavely to BFD Members, Jan. 11, 1999)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 ; SER, tab }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 17}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055  at 188-201 (Def\rquote s }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Ex. 46}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055 , Purchase and Sale Agreement}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9188460\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055 )}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 9}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055  at 274-344}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8484698\charrsid2825055 (Def\rquote s }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Ex. 49,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\highlight7\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9188460\charrsid2825055 First and Second Operating Agreements)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15860554\charrsid2825055 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Multiple witnesses testified that Swavely did not make any representations that VKT\rquote 
s units would have the same ceiling height or that a rooftop terrace would be a common area amenity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 See}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  3}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  at 29-32}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055 (}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Swavely Tr.,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  Jan. 31, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  7}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  at 97-98, 120}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Keogh Tr.,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  Feb. 2, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  11}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  at 167 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Johnson Tr.,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  Sept. 7, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  6}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  at 81 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Felix Tr.,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15093399\charrsid2825055  Feb. 2, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 .
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [13]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 \tab Likewise, substantial evidence was introduced at trial indicating that }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  allegations had no evidentiary basis.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Both witness testimony and documentary evidence established that BFD\rquote s members\emdash and not Swavely himself\emdash 
eliminated the rooftop terrace, and that the cost of the pop-ups was paid by the owners of the 12th floor units, and not BFD\rquote s entire membership.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 See}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  4}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  at 71 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Swavely Tr.,}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  Feb. 1, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  5}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  at 79}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Swavely Tr.,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  Feb. 2, 2006)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  6}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  at 91-93}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055 (}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Felix Tr.,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  Feb. 2, 2006)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  51}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14645944\charrsid2825055  at 434-37 (Def\rquote s }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Ex. 117}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055 , BFD Meeting Minutes, June 30, 2001)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  55}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055  at 445 (Def\rquote s}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  Ex. 127}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055 , Copy of Swavelys\rquote  Personal Check and Receipt No. 6520)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 56}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055  at 446 (Def\rquote s }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Ex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 128}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055 , Copy of Swavelys\rquote  Personal Check and Deposit Slip).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 
Evidence was also introduced showing that Macris was aware of the situation, opposed the pop-ups and elimination of the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 rooftop}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  terrace, and, when the membership did not adopt his positions, harassed Swavely in the hopes that those decisions would be reversed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 See}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  4}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055  at 52, 86 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Swavely Tr.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6120700\charrsid2825055 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  7}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14163544\charrsid2825055  at 112-13 (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Keogh Tr}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14163544\charrsid2825055 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 ; SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  40}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14163544\charrsid2825055  at 397 (Def\rquote s}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  Ex. 95}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14163544\charrsid2825055 , Copy of e-mail message from Dr. Bobby C. Baker to BFD Members, Mar. 9, 2001)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 .}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Notably, Macris sought to get his way by filing multiple complaints with government agencies that were ultimately rejected.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [14]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 \tab Furthermore, even after receiving an explanation }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 
from opposing counsel }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 as to how his claims were groundless, Macris chose to file suit against Swavely under the DTPA anyway.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 60}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14163544\charrsid2825055  at 473-76 (Def\rquote s Ex. 121, Letter from }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14773673\charrsid2825055 Attorney Thomas Lannen to Attorney Seaton Woodley, Sept. 28, 2001)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Finally, Robert Keogh, at the time the President of the VKT Homeowner
\rquote s Association, testified that }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 
 attorney met with him and told him that he would have the instant lawsuit }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 go away}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  if }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15735775\charrsid2825055 the Homeowners Association }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 agreed to allow }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055  dog to reside in his VKT unit despite VKT\rquote s prohibition against pets.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 SER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9468782\charrsid2825055 , tab}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 
 7, Keogh Tr., 108:10-108:6.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7416183\charrsid2825055 Reviewing }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957082\charrsid2825055 the entire evidence}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957082\charrsid2825055  we are not}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10379463\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957082\charrsid2825055 left with the definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed by the trial court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13393444\charrsid2825055 Accordingly, we affirm the trial court\rquote s finding of harassment and imposition of attorney\rquote s fees and costs under 5 GCA \'a7 32107.
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 B. Swavely is Entitled to Appellate Attorney\rquote s Fees and Costs
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [15]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10517091\charrsid2825055 Swavely requests that}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2451910\charrsid2825055 , pursuant to 5 GCA \'a7 32107,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10517091\charrsid2825055  this court grant him an award of additional attorney\rquote 
s fees and costs to cover the expenses incurred in defending }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10892937\charrsid2825055 Macris\rquote }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10517091\charrsid2825055  appeal of the trial court\rquote 
s finding of harassment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5517900\charrsid2825055 Guam, like other United States jurisdictions, follows the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5517900\charrsid2825055 American Rule}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5517900\charrsid2825055  governing attorney\rquote s fees.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5517900\charrsid2825055 Fleming v. Quigley}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5517900\charrsid2825055 , 2003 Guam 4 \'b6 35.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8924971\charrsid2825055 Under the American Rule, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 
the prevailing litigant is ordinarily not entitled to collect a reasonable attorneys\rquote  fee from the loser.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 
Alyeska Pipeline Serv. Co. v. Wilderness Soc\rquote y}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 , 421 U.S. 240, 247 (1975).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 Instead, all litigants }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 bear their own litigation expenses, including attorney
\rquote s fees.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 Fleming}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 , 2003 Guam 4 \'b6 7.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 However, certain recognized exceptions apply to the American Rule.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 Most notably, fee-shifting is permitted when it is authorized by }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15161433\charrsid2825055 a }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 statute.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8984913\charrsid2825055 Id.}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12196409\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [16]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2451910\charrsid2825055 \tab Both parties acknowledge that, while 5 GCA \'a7
 32107 mandates that a trial court award a prevailing defendant reasonable and necessary attorney\rquote s fees and costs upon a finding that a plaintiff initiate
d a DTPA action for the purpose of harassment, the plain text of the statute neither explicitly allows nor precludes an award of attorney\rquote s fees incurred during the course of an appeal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2451910\charrsid2825055 Macris contends that the statute\rquote s failure to explicitly authorize appellate attorney\rquote s fees precludes }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 
such an award, whereas Swavely argues this award would be consistent with how other jurisdictions have applied substantially similar DTPA statutes and would further the public policy goals behind the fee-shifting provision.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2165143\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [17]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 \tab Whether 5 GCA \'a7
 32107 authorizes fee-shifting on appeal is a pure question of law that involves statutory interpretation.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 
Accordingly, this court must base its decision on the statute\rquote s plain meaning and the legislature\rquote s intent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 People v. Root}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 , 2005 Guam 16 \'b6 9.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13914634\charrsid2825055 
The legislature has expressly authorized courts construing the DTPA to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13914634\charrsid2825055 
consider relevant and pertinent decisions of courts in other jurisdictions.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13914634\charrsid2825055 5 GCA \'a7 32108(c)(B)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  (2005)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13914634\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4135581\charrsid2825055 
Given the fee-shifting statute\rquote s ambiguous language and the absence of prior Guam case law interpreting }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 5 GCA \'a7 32107}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4135581\charrsid2825055 , it is instructive to consider how courts in jurisdictions with similarly}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1210139\charrsid2825055  worded statutes have resolved this issue.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10712607\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [18]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 \tab Several states have DTPA statutes with attorney\rquote s fees provisions that contain language similar to 5 GCA 
\'a7 32107.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s17\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12730403 
\fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs18\super\insrsid12941225 \chftn }{\insrsid12941225  These states include {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname place}}{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Alabama{\*\xmlclose}{\*\xmlclose}
, Ala. Code. \'a7 8-19-10(a)(3), {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Colorado{\*\xmlclose}, Colo. Rev. Stat. \'a7 6-1-113(3), {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname country-region}}Georgia{\*\xmlclose}, {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Ga.{\*\xmlclose}
 Code Ann. \'a7 10-1-399, {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname place}}Louisiana{\*\xmlclose}{\*\xmlclose}, La. Rev. Stat. Ann. art. 51:1409(A), {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Tennessee{\*\xmlclose}, 
{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Tenn.{\*\xmlclose} Code Ann. \'a7 47-18-109(e)(2), and {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Texas{\*\xmlclose}, {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname place}}{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Tex.{\*\xmlclose}
{\*\xmlclose} Bus. & Com. Code Ann. \'a7 17.50(c).
\par }}}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 Of these states, }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055 we consider }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 Texas}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055  particularly relevant }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 because}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055  its DTPA jurisprudence is well-developed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 ,}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055 
 and its DTPA mandatory fee-shifting statute, Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Ann. \'a7 17.50(c), contains language that is virtually identical to 5 GCA \'a7 32107.}{\cs18\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\s17\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12730403 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs18\super\insrsid12941225 \chftn }{\insrsid12941225  The {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname 
place}}{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Texas{\*\xmlclose}{\*\xmlclose} statute reads as follows:
\par 
\par }\pard \s17\qj \li720\ri720\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid14773673 {\insrsid12941225 On a finding by the court that an ac
tion under this section was groundless in fact or law or brought in bad faith, or brought for the purpose of harassment, the court shall award to the defendant reasonable and necessary attorneys\rquote  fees and costs.
\par }\pard \s17\qj \li0\ri0\widctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12730403 {\insrsid12941225 
\par {\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname place}}{\*\xmlopen\xmlns1{\factoidname State}}Tex.{\*\xmlclose}{\*\xmlclose} Bus. & Com. Code Ann{\*\bkmkstart OLE_LINK1}{\*\bkmkstart OLE_LINK2}. \'a7 17.50(c) (2005).{\*\bkmkend OLE_LINK1}{\*\bkmkend OLE_LINK2}  }}}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055 Texas }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 courts have }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9590010\charrsid2825055 routinely }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14752555\charrsid2825055 used Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Ann. \'a7 17.50(c) to award}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055  prevailing defendants additional attorney\rquote s fees and costs incurred due to a plaintiff\rquote s unsuccessful appeal of a trial court\rquote s finding of bad faith or harassment.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 See}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 
Schott v. Leissner}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 , 659 S.W.2d 752 (Tex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 App. 1983)}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15927635\charrsid2825055  (awarding defendant $2,500 in attorney\rquote s fees }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 under \'a7 17.50(c) }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15927635\charrsid2825055 for defending an a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9904544\charrsid2825055 ppeal in the Court of Appeals}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7292460\charrsid2825055 
 and an additional $1,500 in appellate fees in the event of an appeal to the Texas Supreme Court}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid9904544\charrsid2825055 )}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 ; }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 see also}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 Loeffler v. Lytle Indep}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 .}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055  Sch}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055 .}{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055  Dist.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 , 211 S.W.3d 331}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 , 351}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055  (Tex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid798227\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16715349\charrsid2825055 App. 2006) (affirming award of defendant\rquote 
s appellate attorney\rquote s fees under \'a7 17.50(c) contingent on plaintiff\rquote s appeals being unsuccessful)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7292460\charrsid2825055 ; }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7292460\charrsid2825055 
Transport Indem. Co. v. Orgain, Bell & Tucker}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7292460\charrsid2825055 , 846 S.W.2d 878 (Tex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12126054\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid7292460\charrsid2825055 App. 1993) (affirming award of $20,000 in defendant\rquote s appellate attorney\rquote s fees in the event plaintiff appeals finding of bad faith under \'a7 17.50(c) to the C
ourt of Appeals and the Texas Supreme Court).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12730403\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [19]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10498102\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14121455\charrsid2825055 An award of appellate attorney\rquote 
s fees in such circumstances is }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957082\charrsid2825055 deemed }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14121455\charrsid2825055 necessary }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10957082\charrsid2825055 
by Texas courts }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid14121455\charrsid2825055 to promote the public policy considerations that underlie Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Ann. \'a7 17.50(c)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 , 5 GCA 
\'a7 32107, and similar fee-shifting provisions in other DTPA statutes.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 
As the Texas Supreme Court succinctly summarizes, requiring a plaintiff to pay a defendant\rquote s attorney\rquote s fees and costs upon a finding that the plaintiff\rquote s DTPA lawsuit was initiated in bad faith or with an intent to harass serves }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 
to deter similar conduct in the future and to compensate the aggrieved party by reimbursing the costs incurred in responding to baseless pleadings.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 " }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 Klein v. Dooley}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 , 949 S.W.2d 307, 308 (Tex. 1997)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  (quoting
 }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 Scott & White Mem}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12126054\charrsid2825055 \rquote l}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  Hosp. v. Schexnider}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 , 940 S.W.2d 594, 596-597 (Tex. 1996)) (internal quotation marks omitted)}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3940999\charrsid2825055 We agree that an}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055  award of appellate attorney\rquote s fees in the event of an unsuccessful appeal}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5246961\charrsid2825055  of a finding of harassment}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 , even when the appeal itself }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5246961\charrsid2825055 is}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055  not groundless or brought for an improper purpose, is necessary to further the public policy considerations}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3940999\charrsid2825055 
 that underlie 5 GCA \'a7 32107}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 See}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 Loeffler}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12279390\charrsid2825055 , 211 S.W.3d at }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5245361\charrsid2825055 351 (observing that award of appellate attorney\rquote s fees contingent on plaintiff\rquote s unsuccessful appeal is }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5245361\charrsid2825055 designed to compensate appellees for the expenses of defending its award.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 "}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5245361\charrsid2825055 ).}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3940999\charrsid2825055 Accordingly, we hold that Macris pay Swavely\rquote s reasonable and necessary appellate attorney\rquote s fees.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10498102\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [20]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13785915\charrsid2825055 \tab Finally, Swavely argues that this court }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6192845\charrsid2825055 should }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13785915\charrsid2825055 determine the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 exact}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13785915\charrsid2825055  amount of appellate attorney\rquote 
s fees in lieu of the trial court because this court is better suited than the trial court to evaluate the reasonableness and necessity of fees incurred in defending an appeal.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 We have previously recognized that, nationally, appellate courts are split on this issue, with some courts remanding the }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 
question}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055  to the trial court while others make the determination themselves.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 Cruz v. Cruz}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 , 2005 Guam 3 \'b6 21.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 In }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 Cruz}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 , this court, while acknowledging that it has the 
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 authority}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055  to }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 determine the exact amount of}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055  appellate attorney\rquote s fees, chose to remand th}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 at determination }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 to the trial court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 But unlike }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 Cruz}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11826356\charrsid2825055 , the attorney\rquote s fees at issue here are mandatory\emdash not discretionary\emdash and do n
ot depend on facts better known to the trial court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 Because the instant case is distinct from }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 Cruz}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11566513\charrsid2825055 , we must consider whether remand is appropriate in light }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 of the changed circumstances.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid13785915\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [21]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 W}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 hen determining which court should assess the amount of appellate attorney\rquote s fees owed to a prevailing party under a deceptive trade practices statute\rquote s fee-shifting provision, }
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12126054\charrsid2825055 a}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 ppellate courts in other jurisdictions }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 
have often made the determination themselves rather than remanding the issue to the trial court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 See, e.g.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 , }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 Laurents v. Louisiana}{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 Mobile Homes, Inc.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 , 689 So.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12126054\charrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 2d 536, 543 (La.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  Ct. A}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 pp. 1997) (increasing trial court
\rquote s attorney\rquote s fees award by $1,000 for work done in connection with successful appeal); }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 Schott}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 
, 659 S.W.2d at 755 n.1 (ordering plaintiff-appellant to pay defendant-appe}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12913315\charrsid2825055 llee $2,500}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055  in appellate attorney\rquote s fees).
}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 
However, appellate courts have also frequently remanded the determination to the trial court, particularly when the reasonableness of the prevailing party\rquote s appellate attorney\rquote s fees }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5191270\charrsid2825055 was}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055  in dispute.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 See, e.g.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 , }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 A.V.I., Inc. v. Heathington}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 , 842 S.W.2d 712, 718 (Tex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 App.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 992) (holding that since the probable amount of appellate attorney\rquote 
s fees ranged from $3,000 to $7,500, remand to the trial court was appropriate since a question of fact existed as to the reasonable amount of appellate fees); }{\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 Smith v. Smith}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 , 757 S.W.2d 422, 426 (Tex.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4026687\charrsid2825055 
App. 1988) (remanding appellate attorney\rquote s fees issue to trial court because the trial court, as the finder of fact, must hear evidence to determine whether the amount of attorney\rquote s fees is reasonable).
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [22]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1987724\charrsid2825055 \tab Here, the parties disagree as to whether the appellate attorney\rquote s fees requested by Swavely are reasonable.}
{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1987724\charrsid2825055 Though Swavely has requested an award of $7,212 in appellate attorney\rquote s fees, Macris disputes the
 reasonableness of this figure, accusing Swavely of unnecessarily incurring substantial costs }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5191270\charrsid2825055 in the hope that the fees would be assessed against Macris.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 With respect to this issue, t}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5191270\charrsid2825055 he record before us is}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5191270\charrsid2825055 too underdeveloped for this court to determine wh
ether the fees Swavely has requested are reasonable and necessary under 5 GCA \'a7 32107.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid5191270\charrsid2825055 
Because a trial court is the more proper forum to litigate such matters, we remand this issue to the Superior Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 IV.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15075086\charrsid2825055 CONCLUSION}{
\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [23]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 
We cannot find that the trial court erred when it held that Macris filed his DTPA lawsuit for the improper purpose of harassing Swavely.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 
Under the clear error standard, we may overturn the trial court\rquote s finding of harassment only if we are left with the definite and firm conviction that a mistake has been committed.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 We hold that the trial court considered the entirety of the evidence and that sufficient evidence exists to support a finding of harassment}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 .}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055 T}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 hus}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15695353\charrsid2825055  we}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055  }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 AFFIRM}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055  the trial court\rquote s decision.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11689314\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055 
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid469490\charrsid2825055 [24]}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 \tab }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2497992\charrsid2825055 Having affirmed the finding of harassment, w}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 e further hold that Swavely is entitled to his reasonable and necessary appellate attorney\rquote s fees and court costs under 5 GCA \'a7 32107.}{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 While we have the power to award a specific amount of attorney\rquote s fees on appea
l, we decline to do so, for in this particular case the trial court is the more appropriate forum to determine whether the fees Swavely has requested are reasonable and necessary.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055  }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 Accordingly, we }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 ORDER}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055  Macris to pay Swavely\rquote 
s reasonable attorney\rquote s fees and court costs in connection with this appeal, and }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055 REMAND}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15949538\charrsid2825055  to the trial court the }{
\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2497992\charrsid2825055 determination of the exact amount of reasonable and necessary appellate attorney\rquote s fees.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2914642\charrsid2825055 
\par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid2825055 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 F. PHI}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055\charrsid2825055 
LIP CARBULLIDO}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 
\par Associate Justice}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid2825055\charrsid2825055 
\par 
\par KATHERINE A. MARAMAN
\par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 Associate }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3997699\charrsid2825055 Justice
\par 
\par ROBERT J. TORRES
\par Chief Justice
\par }}