Opinion
No. 13-02-225-CV
Memorandum Opinion delivered and filed June 2, 2005.
On appeal from the 135th District Court of Victoria County, Texas.
Before Justices YAÑEZ, CASTILLO, and GARZA.
MEMORANDUM OPINION
This is a memorandum opinion not designated for publication. The parties are familiar with the facts. We will not recite them here except as necessary to advise the parties of our decision and the basic reasons for it. See Tex.R.App.P. 47.4.
This case is before this Court after we reversed and remanded a summary judgment. A dispute arose between appellant Cadle Company and appellee Munir Munawar over the purchase of a service station. On remand, the jury found in favor of Munawar on his DTPA claims of misrepresentation, breach of express warranty, and unconscionability. On appeal, Cadle asserts that it is not liable under the DTPA because (1) under the law of the case, Munawar's misrepresentation claim involves breach of contract that is not actionable under the DTPA; (2) even if Munawar's claim were actionable under the DTPA, no liability exists for either misrepresentation or breach of warranty; and (3) the evidence is legally and factually insufficient to show (a) grossly unfair advantage, (b) gross disparity between the value received for the property and the consideration paid, and (c) damages. We affirm the judgment of the trial court.
See Munawar v. Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d 12, 21 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 1999, pet. denied).
The applicable version of the DTPA is determined by the date the deceptive act or practice occurs. La Sara Grain v. First Nat'l Bank, 673 S.W.2d 558, 565 (Tex. 1984) (citing Woods v. Littleton, 554 S.W.2d 662, 666 (Tex. 1977)). The events giving rise to the cause of action occurred before the 1995 amendment to the DTPA. We will apply the law in effect at that time.
Cadle framed its issues on appeal and we will address the issues throughout the opinion as follows:
1. [Cadle] is not liable under the DTPA because:
A. According to the law of the case in this Court's prior decision, [Munawar]'s misrepresentation claim involves a mere breach of contract that is not actionable under the DTPA.
B. Even if [Munawar]'s claim were actionable under the DTPA, there is no liability for either misrepresentation or breach of warranty because:
1. [Munawar] failed to prove that the Cadle Company did not own the gas pumps and that they were not conveyed by the special warranty deed.
2. Even if [Cadle] did not own the gas pumps, it delivered exactly what it promised under the special warranty deed, which was good title to all claims by and through it.
2. [Cadle] is not liable for DTPA unconscionability because:
A. There is legally or factually insufficient evidence that [Cadle] took grossly unfair advantage of [Munawar].
B. There is legally or factually insufficient evidence of a gross disparity between the value received for the property and the consideration paid.
3. There is legally or factually insufficient evidence of damages:
A. [Munawar] failed to prove the amount of money he spent to acquire "All the property to be conveyed under the earnest money contract."
1. It is undisputed that the amount paid to Thomas Petroleum included property and rights which were not included in the earnest money contract.
2. There is no or insufficient proof that Thomas Petroleum owned the gas pumps and that they were not conveyed by the earnest money contract.
I. FACTUAL AND PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND
This is a DTPA case that stems from a written contract for the sale of a convenience store. By a contract dated August 5, 1992, Munawar purchased a convenience store that had been foreclosed upon by Cadle. Munawar maintains that at all relevant times, Cadle's agents were aware that Munawar did not want to be limited to consignment sales of gasoline. Munawar further asserts that agents of Cadle represented that he would not be thus limited. Additionally, Munawar asserts that agents of Cadle represented that the gas pumps and related equipment were part of the property to be transferred to Munawar at closing. The day after closing on the property, Munawar took possession of the premises. At that time, Thomas Petroleum informed Munawar that it owned certain equipment located on the property, including the gas pumps, signs, and additional equipment, and that there was an agreement in place to split gasoline profits on a "50/50" basis. Thomas further provided Munawar with an "Exclusive Sales Agreement," which was an agreement between the supplier and the former operators of the convenience store, Robert Quitta and Gladys Steshko. The agreement provided that gasoline would be bought exclusively from Thomas for nine years and that Thomas would supply and remain the owner of equipment, including gas pumps and signs located on the property. The agreement further set forth a consignment schedule as to the sale of fuel. The agreement was recorded in the Victoria County property records, filed May 12, 1989. In November of 1993, Munawar entered into an agreement with Thomas to settle the portion of the claim relating to the gas pumps and to grant Munawar the exclusive right to sell the gasoline. Munawar paid Thomas $18,453.00, and brought suit against Cadle based on several legal theories.
The equipment at issue includes two Gilbarco MPD-3s, one Gilbarco T-12G console, one Gilbarco G-cat card reader, brand signage, and poles, all related to gasoline and diesel sales.
The contract included an option to renew for an additional ten years.
II. PROCEEDINGS BELOW
The trial court initially granted summary judgment in favor of Cadle. That decision was appealed to this Court. This Court reversed and remanded the case for a new trial. See Munawar v. Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d 12, 21 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 1999, pet. denied). Again at the trial court level, the case proceeded to a jury trial, which rendered judgment in favor of Munawar on his DTPA causes of action, including: (1) engaging in false, misleading or deceptive acts or practices; (2) breach of express warranty; and (3) engaging in an unconscionable action, along with an entry of money damages. Cadle appeals that decision.
The jury answered in the affirmative to the following questions:
1. Did the Cadle Company engage in any false, misleading, or deceptive act or practice that was a producing cause of damages to Munir Munawar?
2. Was the failure, if any, of The Cadle Company to comply with a warranty a producing cause of damages to Munir Munawar?
3. Did the Cadle Company engage in any unconscionable action or course of action that was a producing cause of damages to Munir Munawar?
The jury answered with the sum of $18,453.00 to the following question:
1. What sum of money, if any, if paid now in cash, would fairly and reasonably compensate Munir Munawar for his damages, if any, that resulted from such conduct?
III. LAW OF THE CASE
As part of its first issue, Cadle asserts it is not liable under the DTPA because according to the law of the case in this Court's prior decision, Munawar's misrepresentation claim involves a mere breach of contract that is not actionable under the DTPA. See Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d at 12. The "law of the case" doctrine binds a court of appeals to its initial decision if there is a subsequent appeal in the same case. Hudson v. Wakefield, 711 S.W.2d 628, 630 (Tex. 1986); see also Ramirez v. Carreras, No. 13-02-00003-CV, 2004 Tex. App. LEXIS 7445, at *6 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi, Aug. 19, 2004, no pet.). The "law of the case" doctrine applies to questions of law. Wakefield, 711 S.W.2d at 630. The doctrine does not apply to questions of fact. Id.
This case has been designated as an opinion by this court. See Ramirez v. Carreras, No. 13-02-00003-CV, 2004 Tex. App. LEXIS 7445, at *6 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi, Aug. 19, 2004, no pet.).
In the original proceeding, the trial court granted summary judgment in Cadle's favor as to all causes of action without expressly stating the basis for its decision. Munawar appealed that judgment to this Court. In reversing and remanding the matter, this Court stated "[b]ecause Cadle did not establish as a matter of law that Munawar could not prevail on his DTPA claims for breach of warranty, misrepresentation, and unconscionable acts, or his alternative breach of contract claim, we hold that summary judgment was improper." Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d at 21. This Court noted that Cadle had not raised an argument in its motion for summary judgment that Munawar's DTPA claims for breach of warranty or unconscionable acts involved only contractual notions. Id. at 18. Therefore, at least two of Munawar's DTPA theories, breach of warranty and unconscionability, were never before the court, and Munawar was not barred upon remand from asserting them as bases for recovery. In addition, this Court expressly reversed that part of Cadle's summary judgment relating to DTPA breach of warranty, misrepresentation, and unconscionability. As such, we overrule that portion of Cadle's first issue relating to the law of the case.
This Court stated:
Because Cadle did not establish as a matter of law that Munawar could not prevail on his DTPA claims for breach of warranty, misrepresentation, and unconscionable acts, or his alternative breach of contract claim, we hold that the summary judgment was improper. The judgment of the trial court is REVERSED and this cause is REMANDED for proceedings consistent with this opinion.
Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d at 21.
IV. LEGAL SUFFICIENCY-UNCONSCIONABILITY AND DAMAGES A. Role of the Jury
A court of appeals is not a fact finder. Accordingly, we do not assess witnesses' credibility or substitute our judgment for that of the jury, even if the evidence could support a different result. Mar. Overseas Corp. v. Ellis, 971 S.W.2d 402, 407 (Tex. 1998). Nor do we re-weigh the evidence and set aside a jury verdict because we feel that a different result is more reasonable. Pool v. Ford Motor Co., 715 S.W.2d 629, 634 (Tex. 1986) (op. on reh'g).
The jury found that Cadle engaged in an unconscionable action or course of action that was a producing cause of damages to Munawar. In its second issue, Cadle asserts that the evidence is legally and factually insufficient to prove that (1) Cadle took grossly unfair advantage of Munawar, and (2) a gross disparity existed between the value received and the consideration paid. As such, Cadle argues it is not liable for DTPA unconscionability. As we have concluded that the law of the case did not bar Munawar from proceeding under the theory of DTPA unconscionability at the trial court level, we proceed with our review.
B. Standard of Review
We address legal-sufficiency challenges as either "no-evidence" or "matter-of-law" issues. Gooch v. Am. Sling Co., 902 S.W.2d 181, 183-84 (Tex.App.-Fort Worth 1995, no writ). We analyze the issue as a "no-evidence" challenge when the party complaining on appeal did not bear the burden of proof at trial. Id. In challenging the legal sufficiency of the evidence to support a finding on which an adverse party bore the burden of proof, the appellant must show that the record presents no evidence to support the adverse finding. Croucher v. Croucher, 660 S.W.2d 55, 58 (Tex. 1983).
When the party brings a legal sufficiency challenge to a finding on which that party bore the burden of proof at trial, we address the issue as a "matter-of-law" challenge. Dow Chem. Co. v. Francis, 46 S.W.3d 237, 241 (Tex. 2001) (per curiam). If, in reviewing a "matter-of-law" challenge, we conclude that the record presents no evidence to support the finding, we then examine the entire record to determine if a contrary proposition is established as a matter of law. Holley v. Watts, 629 S.W.2d 694, 696 (Tex. 1982); Raw Hide Oil Gas, Inc. v. Maxus Exploration Co., 766 S.W.2d 264, 276 (Tex.App.-Amarillo 1988, writ denied).
In performing a legal-sufficiency review, we consider only the probative evidence and inferences that support the challenged finding, disregarding all evidence and inferences to the contrary. Lenz v. Lenz, 79 S.W.3d 10, 19 (Tex. 2002); Maxus, 766 S.W.2d at 276. We overrule a legal-sufficiency issue if the record reflects any evidence of probative force to support the finding. ACS Investors, Inc. v. McLaughlin, 943 S.W.2d 426, 430 (Tex. 1997). If there is more than a scintilla of evidence to support the finding, the legal-sufficiency challenge fails. Formosa Plastics Corp. USA v. Presidio Eng'rs Contractors, Inc., 960 S.W.2d 41, 48 (Tex. 1998). We sustain a legal-sufficiency challenge when (1) the record conclusively establishes the complete absence of evidence of a vital fact, (2) the court is barred by rules of law or of evidence from giving weight to the only evidence offered to prove a vital fact, (3) the evidence offered to prove a vital fact is no more than a mere scintilla, or (4) the evidence conclusively establishes the opposite of a vital fact. Marathon Corp. v. Pitzner, 106 S.W.3d 724, 727 (Tex. 2003) (per curiam); Merrell Dow Pharms., Inc. v. Havner, 953 S.W.2d 706, 711 (Tex. 1997); Hines v. Comm'n for Lawyer Discipline, 28 S.W.3d 697, 701 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 2000, no pet.). The evidence is no more than a scintilla and, in legal effect, is no evidence "[w]hen the evidence offered to prove a vital fact is so weak as to do no more than create a mere surmise or suspicion of its existence." Kindred v. Con/Chem, Inc., 650 S.W.2d 61, 63 (Tex. 1983). Suspicion linked to other suspicion produces only more suspicion, not some evidence. Pitzner, 106 S.W.3d at 727; Browning-Ferris, Inc. v. Reyna, 865 S.W.2d 925, 928 (Tex. 1993). Similarly, an inference stacked only on other inferences is not legally sufficient evidence. Pitzner, 106 S.W.3d at 727. Conversely, more than a scintilla exists when the evidence "rises to a level that would enable reasonable and fair-minded people to differ in their conclusions." Transp. Ins. Co. v. Moriel, 879 S.W.2d 10, 25 (Tex. 1994). We reverse and render judgment when we sustain a legal-sufficiency point. Vista Chevrolet, Inc. v. Lewis, 709 S.W.2d 176, 177 (Tex. 1986) (per curiam); Heritage Res., Inc. v. Hill, 104 S.W.3d 612, 619 (Tex.App.-El Paso 2003, no pet.).
But see Formosa Plastics Corp. USA v. Presidio Eng'rs Contractors, Inc., 960 S.W.2d 41, 48 (Tex. 1998) (holding that legal-sufficiency review is conducted by considering "all the record evidence" in light most favorable to prevailing party, indulging every reasonable inference in that party's favor). A unanimous supreme court, without discussing the analytical construct applied in Formosa Plastics, "reaffirmed the traditional and historical statement of the scope of review [w]hen the court stated: '[w]e emphasize . . . that under a legal-sufficiency review, we must disregard all evidence and inferences contrary to the jury's finding.'" W. Wendell Hall, Standards of Review in Texas, 34 St. Mary's L.J. 1, 160 (2002) (quoting Lenz v. Lenz, 79 S.W.3d 10, 19 (Tex. 2002)). We apply the supreme court's most recent analytical construct.
C. Unconscionability
Munawar asserted, and the jury found in his favor as to, a claim for unconscionability under the DTPA. The DTPA creates a cause of action where an unconscionable action or course of action is a producing cause of actual damages. See Tex. Bus. Com. Code Ann. § 17.50(a)(3) (Vernon 2002). The DTPA defined "unconscionable action or course of action" as an act or practice which, to a person's detriment (1) takes advantage of the lack of knowledge, ability, experience, or capacity of a person to a grossly unfair degree, or (2) results in a gross disparity between the value received and consideration paid, in a transaction involving transfer of consideration. See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44, amended by Act of May 4, 1995, 74th Leg., R.S., ch. 414, § 2, 1995 Tex. Gen. Laws 2988, 3005 (amended 1995) (current version at Tex. Bus. Com. Code Ann. § 17.45(5) (Vernon 2002)).
Under section 17.50(a)(3), there is no requirement that the defendant's unconscionable act occur simultaneously with the sale or lease of the goods or services that form the basis of the consumer's complaint. Flenniken v. Longview Bank Trust Co., 661 S.W.2d 705, 707 (Tex. 1983) (citing Leal v. Furniture Barn, Inc., 571 S.W.2d 864, 865 (Tex. 1978)); see Tex. Bus. Com. Code Ann. § 17.50(a)(3) (Vernon 2002). An action for DTPA unconscionable conduct may be maintained even if the seller made no specific misrepresentations. Johnston v. McKinney Am., 9 S.W.3d 271, 278-79 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 1999, pet. denied) (citing Comm. Escrow Co. v. Rockport Rebel, Inc., 778 S.W.2d 532, 538 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 1989, writ denied)). "Gross" as used in this section, means "glaringly noticeable, flagrant, complete and unmitigated." State Farm Lloyds v. Nicolau, 951 S.W.2d 444, 451 (Tex. 1997) (discussing prior version of the statute). This is true for both sections 17.45 (a) and (b). See Chastain v. Koonce, 700 S.W.2d 579, 583 (Tex. 1985). Review of a finding of unconscionability requires an examination of the entire transaction, not the defendants' intent. See Cooper v. Lyon Fin. Servs., Inc., 65 S.W.3d 197, 207 (Tex.App.-Houston [14th Dist.] 2001, no pet.) (citing Koonce, 700 S.W.2d at 583).
1. Grossly Unfair Advantage a. The Law
The first ground for liability under DTPA unconscionability is to prove an "unconscionable action or course of action," which is an act or practice which, to a person's detriment takes advantage of the lack of knowledge, ability, experience, or capacity of a person to a grossly unfair degree. See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44 (amended 1995). The plaintiff must show that the defendant took advantage of his lack of knowledge and "that the resulting unfairness was glaringly noticeable, flagrant, complete and unmitigated." See id.; see also Ins. Co. of N. Am. v. Morris, 981 S.W.2d 667, 677 (Tex. 1998)). "[N]ot every misrepresentation of fact, even an intentional one, constitutes unconscionable conduct." Latham v. Castillo, 972 S.W.2d 66, 72 (Tex. 1998). The test is whether the consumer was taken advantage of to a grossly unfair degree. Id. This should be determined by examining the entire transaction and not by inquiring whether the defendant intended to take advantage of the consumer or acted with knowledge or conscious indifference. Koonce, 700 S.W.2d at 583. In order to prove an act or course of action unconscionable, there is no need to prove the actor had "actual awareness," when his skill or superior knowledge imposes a duty to ascertain the fact in question. Williams v. Trail Dust Steak House, Inc., 727 S.W.2d 812, 816 (Tex.App.-Fort Worth 1987, no writ).
As it must in a legal sufficiency challenge, our review encompasses only the probative evidence and inferences supporting the challenged finding for Munawar. Lenz, 79 S.W.3d at 19. We begin by considering the first basis for liability under unconscionability and review only the evidence tending to prove Cadle took grossly unfair advantage of Munawar.
b. Analysis
Munawar produced evidence in order to prove that Cadle took advantage of his (1) lack of knowledge of the facts surrounding the transaction and (2) lack of ability to understand the legal ramifications of the contract he entered into. See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44 (amended 1995). Munawar testified that he knew no one in Victoria, Texas, prior to this transaction. Munawar possessed no legal or real estate knowledge to rely on in negotiating the contract. In addition to his lack of legal knowledge, Munawar lacked the counsel of an attorney in contracting for the purchase of convenience store. Gladys Steshko, who operated the gas station at the time Munawar purchased it, and who had owned the store prior to its acquisition by Cadle in the foreclosure proceedings, provided the only assistance Munawar received in negotiating for the convenience store. Munawar found himself negotiating with Gordon Bruce, a licensed attorney working for Cadle. Munawar and Bruce faxed the contract back and forth numerous times, each making changes to the document. Munawar insisted that the following clause ("paragraph 26") be inserted into the final agreement:
While Gladys Steshko was, in fact, the operator of the convenience store in question at the time of the special warranty deed between Munawar and Cadle, Munawar testified it was happenstance that he contacted Steshko. Munawar was not previously aware of Steshko's connection to the store, but instead had been referred to Steshko in her capacity as a real estate agent.
26. SPECIAL PROVISIONS. (This section to include additional factual data relevant to the sale which may include addendums.)
It is controllingly provided that buyer must have the right to terminate any lease on said property by giving the Lessee 30 days written notice. Buyer's purpose in purchasing this property is to operate the convenience store located on said property, including the sale of gasoline products, himself.
This clause was accepted, but without stating why, Bruce changed the conveying document from a general warranty deed to a special warranty deed. Munawar testified he did not know the effect of this change. The title Cadle transferred to Munawar did not specifically except the pumps and equipment at issue from what was transferred.
Cadle owned and possessed the property at least from August 5, 1992, to the date of closing on September 25, 1992. Cadle therefore stood in the better position to know of the existence of the agreement he had with Thomas. Munawar asserts that Cadle should have taken steps to determine that it could perform what it had promised to do under the special provision of the contract. Munawar testified that no one informed him of any problem with the pumps prior to closing, even though Munawar repeatedly communicated and discussed his desire to sell the gasoline himself, without being subject to a consignment agreement. Munawar asserted that, in addition, the title policy made no exception for the pumps and the related equipment. After closing, Munawar received an indemnity affidavit as to debts, liens, and possession executed by Cadle, which stated that there was no one else with any claims against the property. The court admitted this affidavit into evidence at trial.
This Court has already addressed the fact that Munawar had no duty to inspect the sales agreement between Thomas and the former owner of the station as the document, though filed, did not comprise an essential link in Munawar's chain of title. See Munawar v. Cadle Co., 2 S.W.3d 12, 20 (Tex.App.-Corpus Christi 1999, pet. denied).
Munawar further presented evidence that Cadle took advantage of his lack of ability and experience in selling him the property. See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44 (amended 1995). As already stated, Munawar was not an attorney, nor a real estate agent. Munawar testified to having limited experience with contracts of this magnitude, as he had previously participated in only one transaction of this sort.
Numerous courts have found sufficient evidence to support unconscionability in cases similar to this one. See generally, Sanchez v. Guerrero, 885 S.W.2d 487, 489-90 (Tex.App.-El Paso 1994, no writ) (court found ample evidence to support finding real estate agent acted unconscionably, where he knew the prior owner of the home was accused of child molestation but did not share that information with potential buyers, and took advantage of home buyer's inexperience and trust in the agent's expertise); Bonanza Rests. v. Uncle Pete's, 757 S.W.2d 445, 448 (Tex.App.-Dallas, 1988, writ denied) (Uncle Pete's complained that when it undertook the obligations of the franchise agreement, it did not know and was not told about the restaurant's reputation for unsanitary operation, that it had been closed by city health authorities, operated at a loss, or that operations were impaired by Bonanza's legal and financial woes; the jury found Bonanza's conduct in selling the franchise to Uncle Pete's was unconscionable within the meaning of the DTPA).
Munawar presented the aforementioned evidence that Cadle took advantage of his lack of knowledge, ability, experience, or capacity to a grossly unfair degree See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44, (amended 1995). The evidence included the fact that Munawar was not an attorney and lacked the counsel of an attorney. In addition, Munawar testified that he was assured that he could sell the gasoline himself, and requested the addition of paragraph 26, only to later find that a document on file in that county proved an agreement otherwise. Bruce changed the character of the contract from a general warranty deed to a special warranty deed upon accepting the clause Munawar requested. Cadle knew that Munawar was in a hurry to complete the transaction. Munawar insists no one informed him of any problem with the pumps, even though he discussed his wish to sell gasoline without a consignment agreement. We conclude that Munawar produced "evidence of probative force to support the jury's finding" that Cadle engaged in unconscionable actions or practices with regard to Munawar, and that Cadle's legal sufficiency challenge to Munawar's unconscionability claim fails. See McLaughlin, 943 S.W.2d 426, 430 (Tex. 1997). We overrule a legal-sufficiency issue if the record reflects any evidence of probative force to support the finding. Id.
2. "Gross Disparity" a. The Law
The second basis for liability under DTPA unconscionability is to prove an act or a practice that results in a gross disparity between the value received and the consideration paid, in a transaction involving transfer of consideration See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44 (amended 1995). A consumer's proof of gross disparity under subdivision B does not require proof that the defendant acted intentionally, knowingly or with conscious indifference. Id.; Koonce, 700 S.W.2d at 583. A slight disparity between the consideration paid and the value received is not unconscionable; a glaring and flagrant disparity is. Id. at 583.
b. Analysis
The jury charge submitted at trial allowed the jury to consider two bases for unconscionability: (1) that Cadle took advantage of Munawar to a grossly unfair degree, and (2) that there was a gross disparity between the value received and the consideration paid. We have found evidence of probative force supporting the jury's decision that Cadle engaged in an unconscionable action or course of action by taking advantage of Munawar to an unfair degree. See McLaughlin, 943 S.W.2d at 430. Accordingly, we need not determine whether Munawar presented legally sufficient evidence of a gross disparity between the value received and the consideration paid. See Tex.R.App.P. 47.1. We overrule Cadle's second issue on appeal.
D. Damages
We next address Cadle's third issue on appeal, challenging the legal sufficiency of the evidence supporting the jury's findings on damages in this case. The jury awarded Munawar $18,453.00 in damages — the amount of Munawar's alleged out-of-pocket loss. Munawar contracted to pay $175,000.00 for the property identified under paragraph 2 of the earnest money contract. Munawar presented evidence showing he paid this money upon closing. Munawar additionally paid $18,453.00 to purchase equipment from Thomas upon demand from the same. Munawar asserted that he paid $193,953.00 to purchase what he contracted to purchase for $175,000.00.
Paragraph 2 stated:
Property, Lot No. One (1), Block One (1), Woodland Square, S/B Addition, City of Victoria, Texas, or as described on attached Exhibit "A", together with all and singular the rights and appurtenances pertaining to the property, including any right, title, and interest of Seller in and to adjacent streets, alleys, or rights of way. All of such real property, rights, and appurtenances being hereinafter referred to as the "Property", together with any improvements, fixtures, and personal property situated on and attached to the Property, including but not limited to the following: [blank].
Exhibit A reads
Being Lot No. One (1), in Block No. One (1), of WOODLAND SQUARE SUBDIVISION, an addition to the County of Victoria, Texas, according to the established map and play of record in Volume 6, Page 267 of the Plat Records of Victoria County, Texas.
Cadle complains that the evidence to prove the amount of money spent to acquire all the property to be conveyed under the earnest money contract is legally insufficient as (1) the amount paid to Thomas included property and rights not included in the earnest money contract, and (2) there is no or insufficient proof that Thomas owned the gas pumps and they were not conveyed by the earnest money contract.
1. The Law
Under a proper measure-of-damages instruction, a fact finder has the discretion to find damages within the range of evidence presented at trial. See Gulf States Utils. Co. v. Low, 79 S.W.3d 561, 566 (Tex. 2002). Under the DTPA as it existed at the time this case accrued and the suit was filed, a consumer was entitled to recover "actual damages." See Act of May 4, 1995, 74th Leg., R.S., ch. 414, § 2, 1995 Tex. Gen. Laws 2988, 3005 (amended 1995). Although the DTPA did not define "actual damages," the term as used in the DTPA means those recoverable at common law. Castillo, 972 S.W.2d at 69, (citing Brown v. Am. Transfer Storage Co., 601 S.W.2d 931, 939 (Tex. 1980)).
Section 17.45(5) does not expressly require a consumer to prove the mental attitude of the defendant in order to recover actual damages. See Act of June 19, 1983, 68th Leg., R.S., ch. 883, §§ 2, 3, 1983 Tex. Gen. Laws 4943, 4943-44 (amended 1995); Koonce, 700 S.W.2d 579, 583 (Tex. 1985). The legislative history of the 1979 amendments to the DTPA supports the conclusion that the legislature did not intend to require proof of intent, knowledge or conscious indifference to support recovery. Koonce, 700 S.W.2d at 583.
2. Cadle's assertion that the damages included items not included in the contract
Cadle first argues that the amount paid to Thomas included property and rights not included in the earnest money contract. Cadle asserts the amount paid by Munawar to Thomas included payment to procure more than the gas pumps and signage. Cadle argues that the payment included compensation for a cash register and a console used inside the store in authorizing gasoline sales, a computerized credit card reader, the right to sell gasoline exclusively and a share of the profits from all gasoline sales. Cadle asserts that in addition to all these items, the purchase of an air compressor, not part of the earnest money contract, was part of the transaction. Cadle argues that in the absence of a segregation of the amounts paid for the different property and rights under the Exclusive Sales Agreement, no causation exists between the sale of the realty and the settlement amount Munawar paid to Thomas.
a. Property
Cadle objected to the damage question to the jury. In its motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict, Cadle preserved error only so far as to assert that as a matter of law, no evidence was presented as to the amount paid to acquire all the property to be conveyed. The motion solely complains that the consideration was paid not only to acquire the equipment in question, but also to obtain a release from the contract to purchase all gas from Thomas. The motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict does not address the extraneous air pump. On appeal, Cadle again complains based on the fact that Munawar paid for extraneous air pumps with his $18,453.00 payment. Munawar admitted this fact at trial.
"[T]here is no evidence as to what he paid to acquire all the property. There is evidence to what he paid to properly secure and release of the 20 year agreement, to get an air compressor that wasn't even equipment to begin with. So, we don't believe there is any evidence for the submission of that question your Honor."
Except for fundamental error, to preserve any complaint for appellate review, a party must present to the trial court a timely and specific request, objection, or motion. Tex.R.App.P. 33.1(a); Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. v. McKenzie, 997 S.W.2d 278, 280 (Tex. 1999) (per curiam). In particular, to preserve a legal-sufficiency challenge, a party must have specifically raised its complaint in (1) a motion for instructed verdict, (2) an objection to the submission of a jury question, (3) a motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict, (4) a motion to disregard the jury's answer to a vital fact question, or (5) a motion for new trial. Cecil v. Smith, 804 S.W.2d 509, 510-11 (Tex. 1991); U.S.A. Precision Machining Co. v. Marshall, 95 S.W.3d 407, 411 (Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] 2002, pet. denied). We conclude that, as Cadle's motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict did not include the argument now asserted on appeal, Cadle has waived error as to non-segregation of monies spent in gaining the pumps, in buying out the consignment portion of the agreement, and those monies spent for extraneous items, such as the air compressor. See Tex.R.App.P. 33.1(a).
To counter Cadle's assertion that the amount paid to Thomas included property not included in the earnest money contract, Munawar first points out that it is undisputed that all property Munawar eventually acquired from Thomas was either affixed to or situated on the property in question on the date of the earnest money contract. Therefore, Munawar claims, all of the property acquired from Thomas was property that should have been transferred or conveyed to Munawar from Cadle at closing. Munawar asserts he insisted on the inclusion of paragraph 26 to protect him from any litigation involving third parties asserting claims against the property and gasoline business. Further, the exclusive sales agreement between Thomas and Cadle's predecessors-in-interest was on file in Victoria County, Texas, on the date of the contract between Munawar and Cadle. The document reflects the gas pumps and related equipment were owned by Thomas. Cliff Thomas, the owner of Thomas Petroleum, testified that Thomas Petroleum owned the gas pumps and related equipment situated on the property in question. Munawar insists that no evidence on the record shows Cadle ever owned the pumps in question.
The exclusive sales agreement between Thomas and Cadle's predecessors was admitted in evidence at trial.
b. Rights
Cadle additionally argues that money paid to Thomas was for rights not included in the earnest money contract. Munawar counters that Cadle's agents were aware that Munawar did not want to be limited to consignment sales of gasoline, and that agents of Cadle represented that he would not be. Munawar testified that he insisted on the inclusion of Paragraph 26 in the contract for that very reason. After closing, Munawar received an indemnity affidavit as to debts, liens, and possession, executed by Cadle, which stated there was no one else with any claims against the property. The court admitted this affidavit into evidence at trial. Contrary to paragraph 26 and the indemnity affidavit, the exclusive sales agreement between Thomas and the predecessors-in-interest to the gas station directly infringes upon Munawar's right to sell the gasoline on a non-consignment basis. Munawar asserts he paid $18,453.00 to get rid of all the claims of Thomas.
3. Cadle's assertion that evidence to show Thomas owned the pumps was legally insufficient.
Finally, Cadle asserts that the evidence presented to show that Thomas owned the gas pumps and that the pumps were not conveyed by the earnest money contract is legally insufficient. To prove this contention, Cadle only offers a restatement of its assertion that the earnest money contract between Cadle and Munawar was supposed to, but did not, convey the rights to the gas pumps and signage. Cadle offers no proof of ownership in anyone other than Thomas. Munawar asserts that the sales agreement executed by Thomas and Cadle's predecessor-in-title was admitted in evidence as proof that the gas pumps were owned by Thomas. This document, filed in Victoria County on May 12, 1989, reflects ownership in the pumps by Thomas. Cliff Thomas testified to that fact as well.
We find more than a scintilla of evidence to support the jury's damages finding. See Moriel, 879 S.W.2d at 25; see also Kindred, 650 S.W.2d at 63. We do not find the evidence to be factually too weak to support the jury's damages finding. See Ritchey v. Crawford, 734 S.W.2d 85, 86-87 n. 1 (Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] 1987, no writ) (quoting Robert W. Calvert, "No Evidence "and "Insufficient Evidence "Points of Error, 38 Tex. L. Rev. 361, 366 (1960)). The jury's damages finding was within the range of evidence presented at trial and within the jury's discretion. See Gulf States Utils. Co., 79 S.W.3d at 566. After observing all the evidence presented at trial, the jury determined Munawar suffered $18,453.00 in damages, an amount allowable under the DTPA as it read at that time, for actual damages. We conclude the evidence was legally sufficient to support an award of $18,453.00. See id.
V. FACTUAL SUFFICIENCY-UNCONSCIONABILITY
By its second issue, Cadle also alleges factually insufficient evidence was presented to prove: (1) that Cadle took grossly unfair advantage of Munawar (and therefore Cadle cannot be liable for DTPA unconscionability), (2) a gross disparity between the value received for the property and the consideration paid, and (3) the damages awarded. In relation to damages, Cadle asserts Munawar failed to prove the amount of money spent to acquire all the property to be conveyed under the earnest money contract. Cadle states the amount paid to Thomas included property and rights which were not part of the earnest money contract, which Cadle maintains is undisputed. Finally, Cadle argues, apparently in the alternative, factually insufficient proof exists to prove that Thomas owned the gas pumps and that the pumps were not conveyed by the earnest money contract.
A. Standard of Review
Unlike legal-sufficiency challenges, factual-sufficiency issues concede that the record presents conflicting evidence on an issue. Maxus, 766 S.W.2d at 275. Like legal-sufficiency challenges, the standard of review on factual-sufficiency issues depends on the burden of proof at trial. Id. at 275. The party attacking a finding on which an adverse party bore the burden of proof must show that the record presents "insufficient evidence" to support the finding. Gooch, 902 S.W.2d at 184. In reviewing an insufficient-evidence issue, we examine and consider all of the evidence, not just the evidence that supports the verdict, to see whether it supports or undermines the finding. Maritime Overseas, 971 S.W.2d at 406-07. We set aside the finding for factual insufficiency if the "evidence adduced to support the vital fact, even if it is the only evidence adduced on an issue, is factually too weak alone to support it." See Ritchey, 734 S.W.2d at 86-87 n. 1.
If we reverse a trial court's judgment on factual-sufficiency grounds, we detail all of the evidence relevant to the issue and articulate why the finding is factually insufficient. Maritime Overseas Corp., 971 S.W.2d at 407. We reverse and remand for a new trial when we sustain a factual-sufficiency point. Glover v. Tex. Gen. Indem. Co., 619 S.W.2d 400, 401 (Tex. 1981) (per curiam); Heritage Res., 104 S.W.3d at 619.
B. Unconscionability 1. Grossly Unfair Advantage
In reviewing the record as related to factual sufficiency, we consider all the evidence, not just the evidence that supports the verdict, to see whether it supports the trial court's finding. Maritime Overseas, 971 S.W.2d at 406-07. As evidence presented which supports the trial court's findings has already been considered above, there is no need to again discuss that evidence here. We turn to evidence presented contrary to Munawar's contention that Cadle took grossly unfair advantage of him.
Munawar wanted to purchase the property prior to any contact with Cadle. Munawar did, in fact, bid against Cadle at the foreclosure sale, the morning the contract was signed between the two, but lost when Cadle outbid him. Munawar sought out the property, negotiated a contract, and signed a contract for the property all inside one day. Cadle points out that Munawar had almost two months to review the contract, to look at the property, review the title, and/or hire an attorney before closing the deal. Cadle asserts no evidence was offered tending to prove Cadle knew something Munawar did not. In addition, Cadle asserts Munawar did not prove he possessed inferior ability, experience, or capacity of which Cadle could take advantage. Cadle points to the fact that Munawar already owned a convenience store and was an educated, intelligent, experienced business person. Cadle asserts Munawar knew how to hire an attorney but chose not to in this instance.
The jury was the sole trier of fact and of the credibility of the witnesses. See Maritime Overseas Corp., 971 S.W.2d at 407. We do not assess witnesses' credibility or substitute our judgment for that of the jury, even if the evidence could support a different result. Id.; see Pool, 715, S.W.2d at 634. The jury was free to decide that Munawar was an experienced businessman who understood the importance of written contracts, participated in contract negotiations, and committed to a written contract for the purchase of a business. Even so, by its verdict, the jury found Cadle took grossly unfair advantage of Munawar. We conclude that the record evidence, reviewed as a whole, is not factually too weak to support the jury's finding. Considering all of the evidence at trial, we find that the evidence adduced to support the theory of unconscionability based on Cadle taking unfair advantage of Munawar, is not factually too weak to support the judgment. We conclude the evidence was factually sufficient to support the finding of unconscionability. See Ritchey, 734 S.W.2d at 86-87 n. 1.
2. Gross Disparity
Also in connection with unconscionability, Cadle alleges factually insufficient evidence to show a gross disparity between the value received for the property, and the consideration paid. We do not consider this issue as we have already found the facts sufficient to support the jury's finding of unconscionability. See Tex.R.App.P. 47.1. We overrule Cadle's second issue on appeal.
C. Damages
Finally, Cadle complains that the evidence to prove the amount of money spent to acquire all the property to be conveyed under the earnest money contract was factually insufficient as (1) the amount paid to Thomas included property and rights not included in the earnest money contract, and (2) there is no or insufficient proof that Thomas owned the gas pumps and that they were not conveyed by the earnest money contract. As that evidence which tends to support the trial court's findings as relates to damages has already been discussed, we now turn to that evidence which tends not to support the trial court's decision on damages.
Cadle asserts the amount paid by Munawar to Thomas included payment for claims to more than the gas pumps and signage. Cadle argues the payment included compensation for a cash register and a console used inside the store in authorizing gasoline sales, a computerized credit card reader, the right to sell gasoline exclusively and a share of the profits from all gasoline sales. Cadle asserts that in addition to all these items, the purchase of an air compressor, not part of the earnest money contract, was part of the transaction.
Munawar testified he paid $18,453.00 for all the property and rights in the Exclusive Sales Agreement, plus the air compressor. Munawar testified the payment for the two were not separated out in any way. Munawar stated that the twenty-year exclusive sales agreement was his "major concern." Cadle again asserts that, in the absence of a segregation of the amounts paid for the different property and rights under the exclusive sales agreement, no causation exists between the sale of the realty and the settlement amount Munawar paid to Thomas. We conclude that, because Cadle's motion for judgment notwithstanding the verdict did not include the argument now asserted on appeal, Cadle has waived error as to non-segregation of monies spent in gaining the pumps, in buying out the consignment portion of the agreement, and those monies spent for extraneous items, such as the air compressor. Tex.R.App.P. 33.1; Cecil, 804 S.W.2d at 510-11; see also Tex. R. Civ. P. 324 (b)(2).
Cadle also argues there is insufficient proof that Thomas owned the gas pumps and the gas pumps were not in fact conveyed by the earnest money agreement. Cadle merely restates its assertion that Munawar did not prove the earnest money contract was supposed to, but did not in fact, convey the rights to the gas pumps and signage.
We do not find the evidence to be factually too weak to support the jury's damages finding. See Richey, 734 S.W.2d at 86-87 n. 1. The jury's damages finding was within the range of evidence presented at trial and within the jury's discretion. See Gulf States Utils. Co., 79 S.W.3d 566. After considering the evidence presented at trial, the jury determined Munawar suffered $18,453.00 in damages. We hold the evidence factually sufficient to support the damages award. See id. We overrule Cadle's third issue on appeal.
VI. MISREPRESENTATION AND WARRANTY
Also by its first issue, Cadle asserts that even if Munawar's claims were actionable under the DTPA, there is no liability for either misrepresentation or breach of warranty because: (1) Munawar failed to prove that Cadle did not own the gas pumps and the pumps were not conveyed by the special warranty deed; and (2) even if Cadle did not own the gas pumps, it delivered exactly what it promised under the special warranty deed, which was good title to all claims by and through it. Because the jury charge conditioned the recovery of damages on a "yes" answer to any one of three questions: one on misrepresentation, one on warranty, and one on unconscionability, and because we find that the evidence supports recovery on unconscionability, it is not necessary to address the trial court's findings on misrepresentation or warranty. See Tex.R.App.P. 47.1. We overrule Cadle's first issue on appeal.
Please also refer to footnote 7 for the language of the jury charge.
VII. DISPOSITION
We affirm the judgment of the trial court.