ACCEPTED
03-15-00293-CV
7003472
THIRD COURT OF APPEALS
AUSTIN, TEXAS
9/18/2015 6:53:21 PM
JEFFREY D. KYLE
CLERK
No. 03-15-00293-CV
__________________________________________________________________
FILED IN
3rd COURT OF APPEALS
AUSTIN, TEXAS
In the Court of Appeals
9/18/2015 6:53:21 PM
For the Third Judicial District of Texas JEFFREY D. KYLE
Austin, Texas Clerk
__________________________________________________________________
BOB E. WOODY,
Plaintiff-Appellant,
v.
J. BLACK’S, LP and J. BLACK’S, GP, LLC,
Defendants-Appellees.
________________________________________________________
On Appeal from Cause No. D-1-GN-09-001436
In the 345th Judicial District Court of Travis County, Texas
The Honorable Steven Yelenosky Presiding
________________________________________________________
BRIEF OF APPELLANT BOB E. WOODY
Jeremy Gaston Tom C. McCall
HAWASH MEADE GASTON David B. McCall
NEESE & CICACK LLP THE MCCALL FIRM
2118 Smith Street 3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Houston, Texas 77002 Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Rick Gray Hector H. Cardenas, Jr.
GRAY & BECKER, PC THE CARDENAS LAW FIRM
900 West Avenue 3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, TX 78701-2210 Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Counsel for Appellant
ORAL ARGUMENT REQUESTED
IDENTITY OF PARTIES AND COUNSEL
Appellant
Bob E. Woody
Counsel for Appellant
Jeremy Gaston
Texas SBN 24012685
jgaston@hmgnc.com
HAWASH MEADE GASTON NEESE & CICACK LLP
2118 Smith Street
Houston, Texas 77002
Telephone: (713) 658-9001
Facsimile: (713) 658-9011
Rick Gray
Texas SBN 08328300
rick.gray@graybecker.com
GRAY & BECKER, PC
900 West Avenue
Austin, TX 78701-2210
Telephone: (512) 482-0061
Facsimile: (512) 482-0924
Tom C. McCall
Texas SBN 13350300
tmccall@themccallfirm.com
David B. McCall
Texas SBN 13344500
dmccall@themccallfirm.com
THE MCCALL FIRM
3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Telephone: (512) 477-4242
Facsimile: (512) 477-2271
Hector H. Cardenas, Jr.
Texas SBN 00790422
hcardenas@cardenas-law.com
THE CARDENAS LAW FIRM
3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Telephone: (512) 477-4242
Facsimile: (512) 477-2271
i
Appellees
J. Black’s, LP
J. Black’s GP, LLC
Counsel for Appellees
Mr. Eric J. Taube
Andrew Vickers
TAUBE SUMMERS HARRISON TAYLOR MEINZER BROWN, LLP
100 Congress Avenue, 18th Floor
Austin, Texas 78701
Presiding District Court Judge
The Honorable Stephen Yelenosky
354th District Court
P.O. Box 1748
Austin, Texas 78767
Telephone: (512) 854-9374
Facsimile: (512) 854-4540
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IDENTITY OF PARTIES AND COUNSEL .......................................................................... i
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................ iii
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES...............................................................................................v
STATEMENT ON ORAL ARGUMENT ............................................................................ ix
STATEMENT OF THE CASE ...........................................................................................x
STATEMENT OF ISSUES .............................................................................................. xi
STATEMENT OF FACTS .................................................................................................1
A. Factual History...................................................................................................1
B. Procedural History .............................................................................................3
1. Initial Trial Court Proceedings ..................................................................3
2. First Appeal ...............................................................................................5
3. Remand after Appeal .................................................................................6
STANDARDS OF REVIEW ............................................................................................10
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT .........................................................................................11
ARGUMENT ...............................................................................................................14
I. Principles of Specific Performance .................................................................14
II. The trial court erred in granting summary judgment for J. Black’s and
not for Woody on J. Black’s claim for specific performance. ........................19
A. Woody never actually breached any performance obligation. ................19
B. J. Black’s submitted no admissible evidence—let alone conclusive
evidence—that it was ready, willing, and able to perform. ....................25
C. The trial court’s determination that damages would be an
inadequate remedy should be reversed....................................................27
1. J. Black’s submitted no evidence—let alone conclusive
evidence—that damages would be an inadequate remedy. ............27
iii
2. J. Black’s did not move for summary judgment on this
element. ...........................................................................................28
D. The trial court’s award of specific performance is improper because
it is not based on a breach associated with any present performance
obligation. ................................................................................................29
E. An order of specific performance must compel performance by both
parties.......................................................................................................34
III. The district court erred in awarding attorney’s fees, interest, and costs to
J. Blacks. ..........................................................................................................35
A. The basis for the award – specific performance – was improper............35
B. Even if specific performance were available, J. Black’s would not
be entitled to attorney’s fees because it obtained nothing of value
and/or because it obtained no award of damages. ...................................35
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE ..................................................................................38
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE ..........................................................................................39
iv
INDEX OF AUTHORITIES
Cases
Am. Hous. Res., Inc. v. Slaughter,
597 S.W.2d 13 (Tex. Civ. App.—Dallas 1980, writ ref’d n.r.e.) ........................33
Ashford Partners, Ltd. v. ECO Res., Inc.,
401 S.W.3d 35 (Tex. 2012) ..................................................................................35
Atl. Richfield Co. v. Long Trusts,
860 S.W.2d 439 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 1993) ..................................................11
Beckham v. Munger Oil & Cotton Co.,
185 S.W. 991 (Tex. Civ. App.–Dallas 1916, no writ) .........................................33
Boyaki v. John M. O’Quinn & Associates, PLLC,
01-12-00984-CV, 2014 WL 4855021 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.]
Sept. 30, 2014, pet. filed) .....................................................................................36
Cytogenix, Inc. v. Waldroff,
213 S.W.3d 479 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2006, pet. denied).... 15, 27, 32
Delgado v. Methodist Hospital,
936 S.W.2d 479 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist], no pet.) ...............................21
Dallas Cent. Appraisal Dist. v. Seven Inv. Co.,
835 S.W.2d 75 (Tex. 1992) ..................................................................................24
DiGuiseppe v. Lawler,
269 S.W.3d 588 (Tex. 2008) ................................................................................15
Galbreath v. Farrell,
249 S.W. 277 (Tex. Civ. App.—Dallas 1923, no writ) ................................ 15, 34
Gasparotto v. Gallagher Power Fence, Inc.,
No. 03-03-00383-CV, 2004 WL 101689
(Tex. App.—Austin Jan. 23, 2004, no pet.) (mem. op.) ......................................23
Gereb v. Smith-Jaye,
70 S.W.3d 272 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2002, no pet.) ....................................11
Green Int., Inc. v. Solis,
951 S.W.2d 384 (Tex. 1997) ................................................................................35
Greenwall Theatrical Circuit Co. v. Markowitz,
97 Tex. 479, 79 S.W. 1069 (1904) .......................................................................16
Griffin’s Estate v. Sumner,
604 S.W.2d 221 (Tex. Civ. App.—San Antonio 1980, writ ref’d n.r.e.) ............32
v
Hegar v. Ryan, LLC,
No. 03-13-00400-CV, 2015 WL 3393917 (Tex. App.—Austin May 20, 2015,
no. pet. h.) .............................................................................................................31
Haubold v. Med. Carbon Research Inst., LLC,
03-11-00115-CV, 2014 WL 1018008 (Tex. App.—Austin Mar. 14, 2014, no
pet.) .......................................................................................................................35
Haynes v. City of Beaumont,
35 S.W.3d 166 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 2000, no pet.) .......................................26
Holmes v. P.K. Pipe & Tubing, Inc.,
856 S.W.2d 530 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 1993, no writ) ................. 20-21
Hudson v. Wakefield,
711 S.W.2d 628 (Tex. 1986) ..................................................................................9
First State Bank of Bishop v. Grebe,
162 S.W.2d 165 (Tex. Civ. App.—San Antonio 1942, writ ref’d w.o.m.)............9
Humphrey v. Showalter,
283 S.W.2d 91 (Tex. Civ. App.—Eastland 1955, writ ref’d n.r.e.) .....................16
In re Ferguson,
445 S.W.3d 270 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2013) (orig. proceeding) ......11
Ingersoll-Rand Co. v. Valero Energy Corp.,
997 S.W.2d 203 (Tex. 1999),
on reh’g in part, 997 S.W.2d 203 (Tex. Aug. 26, 1999) .....................................16
Lone Star Salt Co. v. Texas Short Line Ry. Co.,
99 Tex. 434, 90 S.W. 863 (1906) .........................................................................28
M.D. Anderson Hosp. and Tumor Institute v. Willrich,
28 S.W.3d 22 (Tex. 2001) (per curiam) ...............................................................10
MBM Financial Corp. v. Woodlands Operating Co., LP,
292 S.W.3d 660 (Tex. 2009) ................................................................................35
Oram v. General Am. Oil Co. of Texas,
513 S.W.2d 533 (Tex. 1974) ................................................................................10
Paciwest, Inc. v. Warner Alan Properties, LLC,
266 S.W.3d 559 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2008, pet. denied) .............................14
Polansky v. Berenji,
393 S.W.3d 362 (Tex. App.—Austin 2012, no pet.) .................................... 18, 25
Provident Life and Acc. Ins. Co. v. Knott,
128 S.W.3d 211 (Tex. 2003) ................................................................................10
vi
Prudential Ins. Co. of Am., Inc. v. Black,
572 S.W.2d 379 (Tex. Civ. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 1978) ..........................26
Roberts v. Southwest Texas Methodist Hosp.,
811 S.W.2d 141 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 1991, writ denied).......................... 29
Ryland Group, Inc. v. Hood,
924 S.W.2d 120 (Tex. 1996) ................................................................................26
S. Plains Switching, Ltd. Co. v. BNSF Ry. Co.,
255 S.W.3d 690 (Tex. App.—Amarillo 2008, pet. denied) .......................... 32, 33
Shilling v. Gough,
393 S.W.3d 555 (Tex. App.—Dallas 2013, no pet.) ............................................11
Syndex Corp. v. Dean,
820 S.W.2d 869 (Tex. App.—Austin 1991, writ denied) ....................................11
Texas Worker’s Compensation Com’n v. Patient Advocates of Texas,
136 S.W.3d 643 (Tex. 2004) ................................................................................10
Thomas v. Thomas,
902 S.W.2d 621 (Tex. App.—Austin 1995, writ denied) ....................................16
United Coin Meter Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co.,
493 S.W.2d 882 (Tex. Civ. App.—Fort
Worth 1973, no writ) .............................................................. 14-15, 27-28, 33-34
Valence Operating Co. v. Dorsett,
164 S.W.3d 656 (Tex. 2005) ................................................................................10
Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P.,
No. 07-12-00192-CV,
2013 WL 5744359 (Tex. App.—Amarillo Oct. 18, 2013) ................................ xi, 5-6
Rules and Statutes
TEX. CIV. PRAC. & REM. CODE § 38.001..................................................... 13, 14, 35
TEX. R. APP. P. 9.4 ...................................................................................................38
TEX. R. CIV. P. 166a .................................................................................................10
TEX. R. EVID. 401 .....................................................................................................26
TEX. R. EVID. 402 .....................................................................................................26
TEX. R. EVID. 802 .....................................................................................................26
TEX. R. EVID. 1002 ...................................................................................................26
vii
REFERENCES TO THE CLERK’S RECORDS
In May and July 2015, three clerk’s record volumes were filed with this Court.
However, they are hard to distinguish because each says “Volume 1 of 1” at the top.
As such, the best way to keep track of them is by the earliest date shown on their
covers. In particular, one was first delivered to this Court on February 7, 2011;
another was first delivered to this Court on May 21, 2012; and the third was first
delivered to this Court on July 16, 2015. Thus, these clerk’s records will be cited
by the last two digits of the year they were first filed:
11CRx Page x of the Clerk’s Record first delivered February 7, 2011.
12CRx Page x of the Clerk’s Record first delivered May 21, 2012.
15CRx Page x of the Clerk’s Record first delivered July 16, 2015.
OTHER RECORD REFERENCES
RRx (date) Reporter’s Record of date, page x
App. x Appendix Tab x
viii
STATEMENT ON ORAL ARGUMENT
Given the lengthy procedural history of this case, including a prior appeal
heard by another court of appeals, appellant believes oral argument would materially
assist this Court’s decisional process.
ix
STATEMENT OF THE CASE
Nature of the Case: This is a commercial landlord-tenant dispute.
Course of Appellant Bob E. Woody filed suit against his sublessee
Proceedings: (appellee J. Black’s, LP), claiming that J. Black’s
breached the parties’ sublease and that the sublease
would soon terminate because it had not been properly
extended. 11CR8-78. In response, J. Black’s claimed
that Woody had breached the sublease by “refusing to
acknowledge” J. Black’s extension of the sublease, by
demanding that J. Black’s vacate the premises or pay
holdover rent, and by alleging nonexistent defaults.
11CR91, 88-93, 5-10.
On summary judgment, the trial court held that Woody
had breached the sublease (11CR97-123, 491-92) and
that J. Black’s had not breached the sublease or
committed any associated torts (11CR497-647, 711,
949; 15CR636). The court then entered judgment
awarding J. Black’s specific performance of the sublease
extension and attorney’s fees. 11CR1160-61, 1302-03.
On appeal, the case was transferred to the Amarillo Court
of Appeals, which held that J. Black’s had properly
extended the sublease, but that the trial court erred in
granting specific performance because J. Black’s had not
conclusively shown it was ready, willing, and able to
perform. See App. 1 (Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., No. 07-
12-00192-CV, 2013 WL 5744359, at *6 (Tex. App.—
Amarillo Oct. 18, 2013)). The Court, without addressing
Woody’s other arguments against specific performance,
then remanded for further proceedings. Id. at *9.
Trial Court: 354th District Court (Honorable Stephen Yelenosky,
presiding).
Trial Court’s On remand, the trial court entered summary judgment
Disposition: that J. Black’s was entitled to specific performance of the
parties’ sublease, $173,438.85 in attorney’s fees, $20-
40,000 in conditional appellate attorney’s fees, post-
judgment interest, and costs. App. 2 (15CR1652-53).
x
STATEMENT OF ISSUES
1. Did the trial court err in granting summary judgment for J. Black’s and not for
Woody on J. Black’s request for specific performance?
2. Did the trial court abuse its discretion and commit harmful error in excluding
certain of Woody’s summary judgment evidence and failing to exclude certain
of J. Black’s summary judgment evidence?
3. Did the trial court err in awarding J. Black’s attorney’s fees, interest, and costs?
xi
STATEMENT OF FACTS
A. Factual History
On August 21, 2006, appellant Bob E. Woody subleased the first floor of 710
W. Sixth Street in Austin, Texas to J. Black’s, LP for use as a bar and restaurant.
15CR927. The initial term of the sublease was 36 months beginning September 1,
2006. Id.; 15CR924 ¶ 3. Under the sublease, J. Black’s had an option to extend the
term by three years and could do so up to four times, so long as J. Black’s was not
in default and gave timely written notice of its intent to extend the term. Id.
In particular, to extend the original term by three years, J. Black’s had to give
written notice to Woody by March 4, 2009 by personal delivery or certified mail.
11CR21 Art. 3.01. On February 23, 2009, J. Black’s sent such notice by certified
mail, return receipt requested, but Woody did not receive it. 11CR162-69, 184 ¶ 14,
427-33, 286-289 This led to a dispute between the parties as to whether J. Black’s
had timely exercised its option.
The parties also disputed whether J. Black’s was in default under the sublease.
In particular, at some point during or before 2009, J. Black’s connected three gas
heaters to the property—and to Woody’s gas meter—without a city permit or
Woody’s authorization, thus resulting in $11,951.83 in unauthorized gas charges that
were billed to Woody. 11CR59-70, 146-47. In addition, the parties disputed
whether the gas heaters, once attached to the property, became a “fixture” or
“improvement” that no longer belonged to J. Black’s under the sublease. 11CR11,
177-178. During the pendency of these disputes, J. Black’s removed the heaters and
1
refused to return them, although it did repay Woody for the gas. 11CR279, 282,
505-06. The parties also disputed whether J. Black’s was in default for failure to
provide food service as required under the sublease. 11CR144-45.
Based on the above events, including the fact that Woody did not receive J.
Black’s certified notice of its intent to exercise its first extension option, Woody told
J. Black’s that it would have to leave the premises by midnight on August 31, 2009.
11CR158-59. J. Black’s ignored Woody and stayed in the premises, where it
remains today. 15CR925 ¶¶ 5-7; 15CR1271.
On May 5, 2009, Woody sued J. Black’s for conversion, theft, trespass to
personal property, and breach of contract, seeking damages and injunctive relief.
11CR8, 14. The district court issued a temporary restraining order, restraining J.
Black’s from removing any fixtures/improvements, interfering with Woody’s
utilities, or interfering with Woody’s own access to the property (which included a
separate restaurant/bar run by Woody). 11CR8-87; RR1-11 (May 6, 2009). After a
hearing on May 14, 2009, the district court denied Woody’s request for a temporary
injunction with respect to the gas heaters removed by J. Black’s from the premises.
11CR 95, 243-343; RR99 (May 13, 2009).
J. Black’s then filed an answer and counterclaim, which alleged that Woody
had committed fraud (in connection with the gas heater claims) and that Woody had
breached the sublease by alleging nonexistent defaults, refusing to acknowledge J.
Black’s extension of the sublease, and demanding that J. Black’s vacate the premises
by August 31, 2009. 11CR88-93. J. Black’s requested specific performance of the
2
sublease, or alternatively, damages and attorney’s fees. 11CR89-92. On October 15,
2009, Woody demanded that J. Black’s pay delinquent holdover rent and late fees,
11CR172-73, but J. Black’s ignored Woody’s demands.
Since the sublease began (September 1, 2006), Woody never locked J. Black’s
out of the premises; never initiated any eviction proceedings; and never prevented J.
Black’s from conducting its business there. 15CR925 ¶¶ 5-6. Accordingly, J.
Black’s has remained in continuous physical possession of the subleased premises
since the sublease started (September 1, 2006) through the present.
B. Procedural History
1. Initial Trial Court Proceedings
On November 20, 2009, J. Black’s moved for partial summary judgment that
Woody had breached the sublease by refusing to acknowledge J. Black’s sublease
extension. 11CR97-173, 106. On December 17, 2009, the trial court granted J.
Black’s first motion for partial summary judgment.1 11CR492.
On August 27, 2010, J. Black’s filed a second motion for partial summary
judgment, seeking, among other things, dismissal of Woody’s claims for breach of
contract, conversion, trespass to personal property, and theft. 11CR497-651. On
1
In the motion’s introduction, J. Black’s stated that it “seeks partial summary judgment on
its breach of contract counterclaim, which alleges in part that Woody has breached the
Sublease by refusing to acknowledge the extension of the term of the Sublease and by
demanding holdover rent.” 11CR98. However, J. Black’s made no argument in the motion
that Woody’s request for holdover rent breached any contractual obligation and in the
motion’s conclusion/prayer, J. Black’s specifically stated only that it sought “partial,
summary judgment that Woody has breached the Sublease agreement by refusing to
acknowledge J. Black’s extension of the Sublease.” 11CR106.
3
October 8, 2010, the trial court granted J. Black’s motion in part and dismissed those
claims. 11CR710. However, the trial court specifically refrained from finding that
Woody had breached the sublease by claiming that J. Black’s had breached the
sublease. Although J. Black’s requested such a finding in its proposed order, the
trial court struck through that language:
15CR710; see also 15CR636 (correcting misidentification of parties in October 8,
2010 order).2
2
These orders were issued by then-Judge (now Chief Justice) Jeff Rose.
4
On January 12, 2012, the trial court signed a final judgment awarding J.
Black’s specific performance, attorney’s fees, and sanctions (based on Woody filing
a summary judgment motion pertaining to the court’s prior summary judgment
rulings). 11CR868-870. In February 2012, while Woody’s motion for new trial was
pending, Woody and J. Black’s executed an amended sublease agreement, which
changed some of the sublease’s requirements concerning food service and alterations
to the premises. 15CR1636-1638. Woody appealed the final judgment to this Court,
which transferred the appeal to the Amarillo Court of Appeals. 11CR871.
2. First Appeal
The Court of Appeals held that J. Black’s exercise of its first option to extend
the sublease was effective, even though not received by Woody, on the basis that the
sublease’s option to use certified mail did not require proof of delivery. App. 1
(Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., No. 07-12-00192-CV, 2013 WL 5744359, at *4 (Tex.
App.—Amarillo Oct. 18, 2013)). But the Court of Appeals vacated the trial court’s
award of specific performance, holding that the “summary judgment record simply
does not contain conclusive proof” that J. Black’s was ready, willing, and able to
perform the sublease. Id. at *6. Because the trial court’s award of attorney’s fees
was based on its award of specific performance, the Court of Appeals vacated that
award as well. Id. at *6-7. The Court of Appeals also found that the trial court
abused its discretion by imposing sanctions on Woody and one of its trial attorneys.
Id. at *7-8.
In addition to arguing on appeal that J. Black’s was not entitled to specific
5
performance because it had failed to show it was ready, willing, and able to perform,
Woody also argued on appeal that J. Black’s was not entitled to specific performance
because (1) J. Black’s had no proof that Woody committed any actual breach of the
sublease; (2) J. Black’s did not prove that damages would be an inadequate remedy;
(3) the sublease lacked mutuality of obligation; and (4) specific performance would
require too much court supervision. Appellants’ Brief at 23-32, Woody v. J. Black’s,
L.P., No. 07-12-00192-CV, 2013 WL 5744359 (Tex. App.—Amarillo Oct. 18,
2013). Because J. Black’s failure of proof on the “ready, willing, and able” element
was enough to decide the appeal, the court of appeals did not reach Woody’s other
arguments. App. 1 at *6 (“[R]eview of Woody’s remaining arguments challenging
the decree of specific performance is unnecessary to the disposition of this appeal.”
(citing TEX. R. APP. P. 47.1)).
3. Remand after Appeal
On remand, J. Black’s moved for summary judgment on its claim for specific
performance. 15CR996. In support, J. Black’s submitted an affidavit from a
manager stating “On February 23, 2009 and at all times since the date of February
23, 2009, J. Black’s GP, LLC and J. Black’s, L.P, has been ready, willing and able
to perform the entirety of its obligations under the Sublease” and that “J. Black’s has
at all relevant times had the necessary funds, resources, and manpower to comply
with all obligations.” 15CR1200 ¶ 6. J. Black’s submitted a “Vendor Quick Report”
indicating that it had paid rent and other expenses during January 2015 (and years
prior), but submitted no other evidence of its then-current financial condition (i.e.,
6
as of January 2015). In addition, J. Black’s submitted no evidence of any actual
breach of the sublease by Woody. Finally, J. Black’s submitted no evidence that its
legal remedies were inadequate, apart from a statement by its manager that J. Black’s
had “benefited” from being in a highly-visible/popular location. 15CR1199 ¶ 2.
Woody moved for summary judgment on J. Black’s claim for specific
performance and argued that J. Black’s “ready, willing, and able” evidence was
conclusory; J. Black’s had no evidence that Woody committed any breach allowing
specific performance; J. Black’s had no proof that damages were inadequate; the
sublease lacked mutuality of obligations; J. Black’s prior request for specific
performance as to the first lease extension was moot (as that extension expired in
August 2012), while J. Black’s request for any broader award concerning the parties’
future performance under the sublease was unsupported; and specific performance
would require undue court supervision. 15CR911, 915-920.
In an effort to avoid most of Woody’s arguments, J. Black’s repeatedly told
the trial court that, according to the court of appeals’ decision, J. Black’s was
automatically entitled to a decree of specific performance so long as the trial court
determined on remand that J. Black’s was ready, willing and able to perform.
15CR1007-08, 1308 & n.14. J. Black’s characterized this as “the law of the case.”
15CR1308 & n.14.
Initially, the trial court accepted J. Black’s argument and construed the court
of appeals’ mandate as specifically limited to one issue: whether J. Black’s was
ready, able and willing to perform the sublease. 15CR1643 (statement by trial court
7
that “the law of the case” requires nothing more from J. Black’s other than proof it
was ready, willing and able to perform). At the same time, the trial court granted J.
Black’s summary judgment motion and denied Woody’s competing motion for
summary judgment. 15CR1639 (March 11, 2015).
However, the trial court later reconsidered the scope of the appellate court’s
mandate, acknowledged that the mandate might have been broader than the trial
court originally appreciated, but then concluded that the summary judgment should
still stand because J. Black’s evidence was conclusive as to every element:
“I noticed in my letter that I indicated in the third to the
last paragraph that there was conclusive proof of
readiness, willingness and ability to perform and I said law
[of the] case requires no more to establish entitlement to
award attorney’s fees. My recollection is that the Court of
[Appeals’] decision could have left open[,] as the other
party [Woody] argues, the other issues not reached on the
summary judgment and I didn’t mention them in the letter.
But to the extent the Court of Appeals did not reach those,
my order finds that those are also satisfied.
...
[J]ust to be clear, I should have put in the letter that the
summary judgment evidence before me satisfied those
other issues not yet reached by the Court of Appeals.”
RR8-9 (March 25, 2015).
Then, on March 31, 2015, the court entered judgment for J. Black’s, awarding
specific performance of the sublease, $173,438.85 in attorney’s fees, $20,000-
40,000 in conditional appellate attorney’s fees, post-judgment interest, and costs.
15CR1653.
8
In a motion for new trial, Woody argued that J. Black’s and the trial court had
misconstrued the court of appeals’ mandate, pointing out that (1) the court of appeals
had skipped Woody’s additional arguments about specific performance, not because
they had been decided against him, but because they were unnecessary to the
disposition of the appeal; and (2) nowhere in the court of appeals’ opinion or
mandate did that court purport to limit the scope of the remand to one element of
specific performance.3 15CR1660-61. In denying Woody’s motion for new trial,
the court stated:
“I considered [Mr. Woody’s] arguments in [his] motion
for new trial that this court has granted more than J.
Black’s sought in its motion for summary judgment and
that J. Black’s and I had misconstrued the scope of the
remand. Upon reflection, I think Mr. Woody is confusing
what this court reached with what the court of appeals
reached. This court reached all issues in granting the Final
Judgment of 2012. The 7th Court expressly reached only
the issue on which this court was reversed - readiness,
willingness, and ability to perform. J. Black’s most recent
motion for summary judgment addresses that issue.
Whether the Court of Appeals’ remand empowers this
court to reconsider other rulings entailed in the Final
Judgment of 2012, it does not require it to do so. This court
can let stand the prior rulings it still believes are correct. If
there is an appeal of the 2015 judgment, the judgment does
not preclude the appellate court from reviewing prior
rulings of this court that it did not reach in the first appeal.”
3
When an appellate court vacates and remands a case for further proceedings and the
mandate is not limited by special instruction, the effect of the remand is to re-open the case
in its entirety on all factual issues. See Hudson v. Wakefield, 711 S.W.2d 628, 630 (Tex.
1986); First State Bank of Bishop v. Grebe, 162 S.W.2d 165 (Tex. Civ. App.—San Antonio
1942, writ ref’d w.o.m.) (opinion and mandate remanding a cause for further proceedings
“in accordance with this opinion when not modified by more specific instructions, has the
effect of remanding the cause for a trial on all issues of fact”).
9
15CR1705-06 (May 6, 2015). On May 13, 2015, Woody timely filed his notice of
appeal. 15CR1708; TEX. R. APP. P. 26.1(a)(1).
STANDARDS OF REVIEW
An appellate court reviews the district court’s summary judgment rulings de
novo. Valence Operating Co. v. Dorsett, 164 S.W.3d 656, 661 (Tex. 2005).
Summary judgment is proper when there are no disputed issues of material fact and
the movant is entitled to judgment as a matter of law. TEX. R. CIV. P. 166a(c);
Provident Life and Acc. Ins. Co. v. Knott, 128 S.W.3d 211, 215-16 (Tex. 2003).
A movant seeking a traditional summary judgment on its own cause of action
or affirmative defense has the initial burden of establishing its entitlement to
judgment as a matter of law by conclusively establishing each element of its cause
of action or affirmative defense. See M.D. Anderson Hosp. and Tumor Institute v.
Willrich, 28 S.W.3d 22, 23 (Tex. 2001) (per curiam). If the movant meets this
burden, the burden shifts to the non-movant to raise a genuine issue of material fact
precluding summary judgment. Oram v. General Am. Oil Co. of Texas, 513 S.W.2d
533, 534 (Tex. 1974).
Where both parties move for summary judgment on overlapping issues and
the district court grants one motion and denies another, the appellate court reviews
the summary judgment evidence presented by both sides, determines all questions
presented, and renders the judgment that the district court should have rendered.
Texas Worker’s Compensation Com’n v. Patient Advocates of Texas, 136 S.W.3d
643, 648 (Tex. 2004).
10
A trial court’s admission of evidence is reviewed for an abuse of discretion.
See Syndex Corp. v. Dean, 820 S.W.2d 869, 873-74 (Tex. App.—Austin 1991, writ
denied) (“test is whether the court acted without reference to any guiding rules and
principles” or “the act was arbitrary or unreasonable”); In re Ferguson, 445 S.W.3d
270, 274 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2013) (orig. proceeding) (“With respect
to a trial court’s determination of legal principles, [a] trial court has no ‘discretion’
in determining what the law is or applying the law to facts.” (internal quotation
marks omitted)).
A court’s decision to award fees on a statutory basis is reviewed de novo. See
Shilling v. Gough, 393 S.W.3d 555, 559 (Tex. App.—Dallas 2013, no pet.); Gereb
v. Smith-Jaye, 70 S.W.3d 272, 273 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 2002, no pet.); Atl.
Richfield Co. v. Long Trusts, 860 S.W.2d 439, 450 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 1993).
(Although the amount of fees may be reviewed for abuse of discretion, see Atlantic
Richfield, 860 S.W.2d at 450, it is J. Black’s entitlement to fees that is being disputed
here, not their amount.)
SUMMARY OF ARGUMENT
In the spring of 2009, Woody and J. Black’s disputed whether J. Black’s had
effectively extended the parties’ sublease. Woody believed J. Black’s had not
effectively extended the sublease and that J. Black’s was also in default based on its
installation, use, and removal of gas heaters and its food service. Accordingly,
Woody told J. Black’s that it would have to vacate the premises at the end of the
lease term or pay holdover (i.e., higher) rent. J. Black’s ignored Woody, remained
11
in the premises, and paid no higher rent. Rather than lock J. Black’s out, seek to
evict J. Black’s, or otherwise interfere with J. Black’s actual use and enjoyment of
the premises, Woody let the parties’ disputes be resolved by the judicial process.
The trial court and Amarillo Court of Appeals both determined that J. Black’s
had effectively exercised its option to extend the sublease term, which resolved the
parties’ dispute as to the first sublease extension. In addition, J. Black’s successfully
defended against Woody’s breach of contract claim in the trial court, a determination
Woody chose not to appeal.
In the meanwhile, the parties have operated as sublessor and sublessee without
incident. Indeed, the parties negotiated and executed an amended sublease (in
February 2012) and J. Black’s has invoked two more 3-year extensions of the
sublease term—both of which Woody recognized, thereby allowing J. Black’s to
remain in the premises through August 2018 so long as it was not in default.4
The parties’ dispute is still ongoing, however, because J. Black’s wants to
recover attorney’s fees, while Woody does not believe they are recoverable. In
particular, although J. Black’s successfully defended against Woody’s original
breach of contract claims, a successful defense does not give rise to a claim for
attorney’s fees unless the contract in question has a prevailing party clause, which
the sublease did not.
Before the first appeal, J. Black’s did obtain a finding from the trial court that
4
If J. Black’s timely exercises its one remaining term extension option and it is not in
default, the sublease term could continue through August 31, 2021.
12
Woody breached the sublease by “refusing to acknowledge” J. Black’s exercise of
its first extension of the sublease, but J. Black’s suffered no damages from that, nor
did it seek or recover any. As such, J. Black’s cannot recover attorney’s fees under
Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 38.001 based on any contract damages
award. Thus, the only remaining (potential) avenue for attorney’s fees was J.
Black’s request for specific performance, but that avenue fails for the following three
reasons.
First, in 2009, J. Black’s claim was for specific performance of the first
sublease extension. But J. Black’s never proved any actual breach of the sublease
by Woody. At most, J. Black’s just proved an anticipatory repudiation that never
turned into an actual breach. At first, this may sound like a distinction without a
difference. But under Texas law, a claimant cannot obtain specific performance
based on an anticipatory repudiation unless the repudiation turns into an actual
breach of a performance obligation, which never occurred here.
Second, specific performance is only available when legal remedies are
inadequate. Here, however, J. Black’s produced no evidence that its legal remedies
were inadequate. Conversely, Woody did demonstrate that J. Black’s had an
adequate legal remedy. In particular, Woody showed that J. Black’s had years of
financial data and thus could have shown the profits it made from operating its
restaurant/bar, which in turn could have been used to show any lost profit damages
if J. Black’s ever had been wrongly evicted from the location (which, again, never
happened).
13
Third, J. Black’s produced no competent evidence that it was “ready, willing,
and able” to perform; instead, J. Black’s just made a conclusory statement to that
effect with no supporting financial information.
Finally, even if the trial court’s award of specific performance were proper, it
does not support any award of attorney’s fees because at the time it was entered
(March 31, 2015), Woody had not committed any actual breach of any performance
obligation under the sublease in the preceding 8+ years. As such, there was no basis
to say that an award of specific performance had any value (as needed, at a minimum,
to support an award of attorney’s fees). Alternatively—and although some courts
have awarded attorney’s fees in connection with awards of specific performance—
such an award is unsupported by Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 38.001,
which facially requires a plaintiff to first recover some “amount” on an associated
contract claim.
For these reasons, the trial court’s award of specific performance should be
reversed, and its awards of fees, interest, and costs should be vacated.
ARGUMENT
I. Principles of Specific Performance
Specific performance is a remedy for a breach of contract. To obtain this
remedy, a party must prove: (a) a breach of contract; (b) that damages for the breach
are inadequate; and (c) that it is ready, willing, and able to perform its obligations
under the contract. See Paciwest, Inc. v. Warner Alan Properties, LLC, 266 S.W.3d
559, 571 (Tex. App.—Fort Worth 2008, pet. denied) (breach); United Coin Meters
14
Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co., 493 S.W.2d 882 (Tex. Civ. App.—Ft.
Worth 1973) (inadequacy of legal damages); DiGuiseppe v. Lawler, 269 S.W.3d
588, 595 (Tex. 2008) (ready/willing/able to perform).
In addition, an order of specific performance is improper if (d) the breach to
be remedied is not associated with a present performance obligation or (e) the order
does not bind both parties to the contract. See Cytogenix, Inc. v. Waldroff, 213
S.W.3d 479, 487-88 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 2006, pet. denied); United
Coin Meter Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co., 493 S.W.2d 882, 888 (Tex.
Civ. App.—Fort Worth 1973, no writ) (both stating that remedial relief must be
connected to present performance obligations); Galbreath v. Farrell, 249 S.W. 277,
280 (Tex. Civ. App.—Dallas 1923, no writ) (“[A court of equity] never deems it
wise or just to enforce one or more of the promises in a contract until it can enforce
all of the contract outstanding at the time of the suit, including the promises of the
plaintiff as well as those of the defendant.”); United Coin Meter, 493 S.W.2d at 888
(same).
To correctly apply the above principles in the present case, one distinction is
particularly important: the three-way distinction between (1) an actual breach of a
performance obligation; (2) an anticipatory repudiation of a performance obligation
that never matures into an actual breach of a performance obligation; and (3) a legal
dispute, such as a dispute over contract terms/interpretation or the adequacy of one
parties’ performance. This three-way distinction is relevant because an award of
specific performance requires an (1) actual breach, not merely (2) an anticipatory
15
repudiation or (3) legal dispute, even if the legal dispute is ultimately losing.
In particular, when one party repudiates a contract, the other party can choose
to immediately sue for damages. But if suit is brought before any actual breach, the
contract is treated as terminated, and the plaintiff cannot sue on the contract for
specific performance. See Thomas v. Thomas, 902 S.W.2d 621, 625 (Tex. App.—
Austin 1995, writ denied) (“[A]ppellant ‘elected’ to terminate the contract when she
chose to sue for anticipatory repudiation instead of waiting to enforce the contract
and sue to collect the alimony installments as they became due and unpaid.”);
Greenwall Theatrical Circuit Co. v. Markowitz, 97 Tex. 479, 79 S.W. 1069, 1071-
02 (1904) (“[A] contract cannot be . . . treated, for one purpose, as subsisting, and,
for another purpose, as at an end. Upon [an anticipatory] repudiation . . . the [non-
repudiating party] may make his choice between the two courses open to him, but
can neither confuse them together nor take both.”); Ingersoll-Rand Co. v. Valero
Energy Corp., 997 S.W.2d 203, 211 (Tex. 1999) (“[T] he effect of . . . an anticipatory
repudiation is to give the nonrepudiating party the option of treating the repudiation
as a breach or ignoring the repudiation and awaiting the agreed upon time of
performance.”), on reh’g in part, 997 S.W.2d 203 (Tex. Aug. 26, 1999); Humphrey
v. Showalter, 283 S.W.2d 91, 94 (Tex. Civ. App.—Eastland 1955, writ ref’d n.r.e.)
(“If [the non-repudiating party] accepts the renunciation as terminating the
agreement and as relieving him from further performance, [the non-repudiating
party] may not afterwards sue on the contract [for specific performance]; his action
should be for damages for a breach.”).
16
The following four examples illustrate the importance of these principles in
factual contexts that, while simple, are materially analogous to those that arose in
the present case:
1. Suppose John and Sarah executed a contract for Sarah to buy John’s
house for $100,000, with closing set to occur 60 days later. A few weeks pass and
John has second thoughts. Days before closing, he tells Sarah, “I’ve decided I don’t
want to sell my house after all.” Sarah immediately sues John and seeks a remedy
for his actions. What are Sarah’s available options? Sarah can seek damages but
not specific performance because John’s actions constitute an anticipatory breach
rather than an actual breach of a performance obligation. Accordingly, if Sarah sues
immediately and demonstrates that the value of John’s home was $150,000, she
could get an award of $50,000 in damages, but not specific performance.
Conversely, if Sarah waited until closing came and went—and assuming John did
not perform—Sarah could obtain $50,000 in damages or an award of specific
performance (assuming all elements of specific performance are otherwise shown).
2. Suppose that, right before closing, John realized his change of mind
was not a legal defense and instead of breaching, he went ahead and conveyed the
property to Sarah. If that happened, Sarah would have no basis to sue, even though
there was a period of time while she was uncertain as to what might happen.
3. Suppose John agrees to rent his home to Sarah for $1,000/month under
a two-year lease. The lease says “no pets” and enforces any violation with a $50/day
liquidated damages clause day. During the term of the lease, Sarah buys a goldfish.
17
John tells her that she is in breach and must either leave or pay $50/day. Sarah does
neither. John consults his attorney, who informs him that he could seek to evict
Sarah, either actually (e.g., by changing the locks) or constructively (by instituting
eviction proceedings). John does neither. Instead, he sues Sarah for breach. Sarah
counterclaims that John’s claim of breach is meritless and thus constitutes a breach
of the lease all by itself.
Both John and Sarah seek attorney’s fees, but the lease does not include a
“prevailing party” provision that would award attorney’s fees to a party even for
merely successfully defending a breach of contract claim. The court concludes that
a goldfish is not a pet under the lease and thus rejects John’s breach of contract claim.
At the same time, the court does not find that John’s losing claim itself was a breach
of the lease and rejects Sarah’s claim, including her claim for fees. Was that correct?
Yes. John never promised to not sue Sarah for potential breaches that turned out not
to be breaches, and to imply any such a promise would substantively incorporate a
“prevailing party” clause into the contract despite its absence.5
4. Suppose that after the goldfish incident, Sarah completes her lease and,
in fact, renews it for two more years pursuant to a renewal option. Further suppose
that after two more years, she renews it again pursuant to a second renewal option.
In addition, suppose that Sarah not only extended the lease, but also negotiated some
5
See Polansky v. Berenji, 393 S.W.3d 362, 368 (Tex. App.—Austin 2012, no pet.) (“The trial
court abused its discretion to the extent that it awarded the [prevailing defendants] their
attorneys’ fees as the prevailing parties without a statutory or contractual basis to do so.”).
18
changes to the terms, including a removal of the “no pets” provision. Then, at the
start of the third term (i.e., after four years in the house), Sarah preemptively sues
John based on the fear that he might make some future claim of default.
Sarah then asks the court for a “general” award of specific performance that
would require John to broadly “comply with the lease.” She does not mention any
specific concern about what John might be planning to do, she just says that, based
on John’s past conduct, she is afraid he may make a losing claim again. Should the
court award specific performance? The answer is no because specific performance
is a remedy for an actual contractual breach. It is not a prophylactic means to coerce
future performance that might or might not occur on its own, let alone compel
“generic” performance of all obligations, especially where there is no indication of
any impending threatened breach. (This scenario is like the present case: after some
legal disputes arose—but before the first appeal—the parties executed an amended
contract, and then on remand after appeal, one party sought specific performance of
the new contract based solely on the fear that the other might in the future either
breach the contract or raise a losing dispute, neither of which is sufficient to obtain
specific performance in the absence of any actual breach.)
As next shown, the above principles and examples confirm that the trial
court’s award of specific performance in this case (and, in turn, its awards of fees,
interest, and costs) was improper.
II. The trial court erred in granting summary judgment for J. Black’s and
not for Woody on J. Black’s claim for specific performance.
A. Woody never actually breached any performance obligation.
19
As explained above, the distinction between an actual breach of a performance
obligation (on the one hand), and either a threatened breach or legal dispute (on the
other hand), is important because specific performance cannot be awarded absent an
actual breach.
Here, J. Black’s sued Woody, claiming that Woody had: (1) refused to
recognize the validity of J. Black’s lease extension; (2) wrongly demanded holdover
rent and that J. Black’s vacate the premises; and (3) alleged nonexistent defaults by
J. Black’s. But even if true, none of those events was a breach of any performance
obligation by Woody. Woody never promised to make only “winning” arguments,
claims, or demands with respect to his construction of the sublease’s terms or the
adequacy of J. Black’s performance of its obligations under the sublease. More
specifically, Woody never agreed not to have a legal dispute regarding the sublease’s
requirements for giving notice of extensions, nor did Woody ever agree not to
demand that J. Black’s either pay holdover rent or vacate the premises when its lease
term was up, nor did Woody ever agree not to complain about J. Black’s food
service. To view the parties’ sublease otherwise would effectively add a “prevailing
parties” attorney’s fee clause that the parties never agreed to.
That said, Woody’s alleged actions might be read as a threat to take further
action (on his own or through the courts) to dispossess J. Black’s of its use of the
subleased premises, which, if the threat was carried out and Woody’s view of things
turned out to be wrong, could be a breach of the sublease. But that just means that
Woody’s initial actions, if viewed as threats, might be construed as an anticipatory
20
repudiation of the sublease.
But in order to seek specific performance in the face of merely threatened
breaches of contract, J. Black’s had to wait and see if any actual breaches occurred.
Here, however, no actual breaches occurred because it is undisputed that Woody
never actually or constructively evicted J. Blacks, instead allowing J. Blacks to
remain in continuing possession of the property at all times since the lease began
September 1, 2006. See Holmes v. P.K. Pipe & Tubing, Inc., 856 S.W.2d 530, 539
(Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] 1993, no writ) (“A breach of the covenant of quiet
enjoyment requires an eviction, actual or constructive, brought about by the acts of
the landlord, those acting for the landlord, or those acting with the landlord’s
permission. . . . The essential elements of constructive eviction are: (1) an intention
on the part of the landlord that the tenant shall no longer enjoy the premises; (2) a
material act by the landlord that substantially interferes with the tenant’s intended
use and enjoyment of the premises; (3) the act permanently deprives the tenant of
the use and enjoyment of the premises; and (4) the tenant abandons the premises
within a reasonable time after the commission of the act. . . . The landlord’s intent
may be inferred from the circumstances.”).6
6
In addition, because J. Black’s remained in possession of the premises throughout the
first and second (and now third) term extensions—and with all parties treating the sublease
as continuing through August 2018—J. Black’s forfeited any claim for breach of contract
based on any anticipatory repudiation that occurred in 2009. See Delgado v. Methodist
Hospital, 936 S.W.2d 479, (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist], no pet.) (plaintiff waived any
claim for breach of contract by insisting on and accepting performance of contract and
being furnished private room as contracted for); 15CR919 (presentation of waiver
argument to trial court).
21
Again, it is important to distinguish between (1) an actual breach of a
performance obligation and (2) a legal dispute about contractual
requirements/performance. The parties disagreed as to whether J. Black’s had
effectively given timely notice of its intent to exercise its first option to extend the
sublease; whether J. Black’s was in default of the lease (i.e., in connection with the
gas heaters or its food services); whether Woody was “wrong” in refusing to
recognize J. Black’s exercise of its extension option, demanding holdover rent, and
telling J. Black’s to vacate the premises before September 1, 2009; and whether
Woody had breached the sublease by alleging nonexistent defaults. And, to be sure,
the trial court decided most of these disagreements in J. Black’s favor, holding that
J. Black’s notice was effective; J. Black’s was not in default; and Woody was
“wrong” in not recognizing the extension.7
But the fact that Woody was wrong about the validity of the extension was
not itself a breach of any performance obligation under the lease.8 Indeed, although
Woody believed J. Black’s had failed to extend the lease, and although Woody’s
attorney sent demand letters to J. Black’s to vacate the premises or pay higher rent,
Woody never attempted to evict J. Black’s, either actually or constructively, nor did
Woody ever collect or receive any holdover rent.
7
The trial court did not find that Woody breached the sublease by alleging non-existent
defaults; demanding holdover rent; or telling J. Black’s to vacate the premises. See supra
at pp. 3-4 & n.1.
8
Although unnecessary to determine, the same is true with respect to Woody’s demand for
J. Black’s to leave or pay holdover rent, as well as Woody’s allegations that J. Black’s was
otherwise in default under the sublease.
22
J. Black’s may argue that Woody’s conduct still constituted some kind of
breach of the implied covenant of peaceable and quiet possession. In its first
summary judgment, the district court ruled that Woody had breached the sublease,
which was affirmed on appeal. J. Black’s accompanying motion prayed for a finding
that Woody had breached the sublease by refusing to recognize J. Black’s exercise
of the first lease term extension option. 11CR106. But J. Black’s made no argument,
nor requested any finding, that Woody had somehow breached the implied covenant
of peaceable and quiet possession. As such, while the trial court’s first summary
judgment can be read as a finding of anticipatory breach, it cannot be read as a
finding of any actual breach of any performance obligation.
J. Black’s may also argue that Woody wrongly asserted that J. Black’s was in
default of various provisions of the sublease, and it is true that the trial court found
against Woody on his allegations of default. But even though J. Black’s wanted the
trial court to declare those allegations to somehow be breaches of the sublease, the
trial court did not. Instead, the trial court crossed out such language on J. Black’s
proposed order, see supra at p. 4, a determination J. Black’s did not appeal.
Moreover, litigants have the right to bring their contract-related issues to
court, and it is not a breach of contract merely to lose. Any other view would be
contrary to the rule that successful defendants are entitled to attorney’s fees in breach
of contract actions only if there is a contractual “prevailing parties” provision, which
this sublease did not have. See Gasparotto v. Gallagher Power Fence, Inc., No. 03-
03-00383-CV, 2004 WL 101689 (Tex. App.—Austin Jan. 23, 2004, no pet.) (mem.
23
op.).9
In sum, the original breach found by the trial court was not the type of breach
that can support an award of specific performance, and there is no evidence in the
record to support any finding of an actual breach. Indeed, J. Black’s has remained
in possession of the premises at all times since the sublease began, and has even
exercised its third extension option to stay in possession of the premises through
August 31, 2018. 15CR1271.
In addition, Woody submitted an affidavit stating that he “accept[ed],
acknowledge[d] and agree[d] that J. Black’s [had] timely exercised its third option
to extend the sublease term through August 31, 2018.” 15CR1270 ¶ 3. The trial
court granted Woody’s request to supplement the summary judgment record with J.
Black’s letter extending the sublease through August 2018, but the court struck the
quoted paragraph (¶ 3) of Woody’s affidavit. 15CR1639-40. But there was nothing
inadmissible about Woody’s acknowledgment that J. Black’s had timely exercised
its third option, and it is relevant in showing how Woody and J. Black’s have
continued to operate under the amended sublease without issue. The trial court’s
exclusion of that paragraph was thus an abuse of discretion; indeed, even J. Black’s
did not contend that Woody had repudiated J. Black’s exercise of that option.
Likewise, the fact that J. Black’s prevailed against Woody’s claims of breach
9
A losing party might also be penalized through sanctions if a claim was held to be
groundless, but there was no such finding here.
24
also does not equal a breach that would support an award of specific performance,
nor did the trial court so find. J. Black’s request for specific performance on a
sublease that is being successfully performed by both parties is merely an improper
attempt to recover attorney’s fees for successfully defending Woody’s original suit.
See Dallas Cent. Appraisal Dist. v. Seven Inv. Co, 835 S.W.2d 75, 77 (Tex. 1992)
(attorney’s fees may not be recovered unless provided for by statute or by contract
between the parties); Polansky v. Berenji, 393 S.W.3d 362, 368 (Tex. App.—Austin
2012, no pet.) (“The trial court abused its discretion to the extent that it awarded the
[prevailing defendants] their attorneys’ fees as the prevailing parties without a
statutory or contractual basis to do so.”).
For these reasons, J. Black’s was not entitled to summary judgment on its
claim for specific performance, and Woody was entitled to summary judgment that
J. Black’s was not entitled to specific performance.
B. J. Black’s submitted no admissible evidence—let alone conclusive
evidence—that it was ready, willing, and able to perform.
The trial court abused its discretion in considering statements that were
inadmissible because they were conclusory and subject to a valid best evidence
objection. In particular, J. Black’s submitted an affidavit from manager Sean Fric,
who stated that J. Black’s “has at all relevant times had the necessary funds,
resources, and manpower to comply with all obligations.” 15CR1200 ¶ 6. Although
this statement may superficially appear relevant, that is only because it contains an
implied reference to financial information that in theory could prove the accuracy of
25
the statement, as by showing the then-current financial status of J. Black’s.10 But if
any such information existed, it was not disclosed by J. Black’s, let alone established
to be reliable/admissible. Woody thus objected to Fric’s statement as a conclusory,
speculative, subjective belief that was (1) unsupported by factual data; (2) hearsay
with respect to its implicit reference to the undisclosed information; and (3) in
violation of the best evidence rule. 15CR1288-89; 15CR1613-14.11 In particular,
under the best evidence rule, J. Black’s had to attach and authenticate any financial
documents whose contents were referenced expressly or implicitly by Fric’s
testimony. See TEX. R. EVID. 1002 (“An original writing, recording, or photograph
is required in order to prove its content unless these rules or other law provides
otherwise.”).
The trial court thus committed an abuse of discretion that was harmful error
in overruling Woody’s objection and relying on Sean Fric’s statement (15CR1639).
And because J. Black’s submitted no other evidence to show that it was ready,
willing, and able to perform the sublease, J. Black’s was not entitled to summary
10
To be clear, Mr. Fric’s affidavit included a printout showing J. Black’s past payment of
expenses, but nothing showing J. Black’s current financial status, such as a current balance
sheet or financial statement.
11
See Haynes v. City of Beaumont, 35 S.W.3d 166, 178 (Tex. App.—Texarkana 2000, no
pet.) (conclusory statements in affidavit are inadmissible); Ryland Group, Inc. v. Hood,
924 S.W.2d 120, 122 (Tex. 1996) (affidavit must be based on personal knowledge);
Prudential Ins. Co. of Am., Inc. v. Black, 572 S.W.2d 379, 380 (Tex. Civ. App.—Houston
[14th Dist.] 1978) (“The best evidence rule . . . mandates that the only competent evidence
to prove the contents of a document is the document itself.”); TEX. R. EVID. 401 (defining
relevant evidence), 402 (irrelevant evidence is not admissible), 802 (hearsay is
inadmissible absent exception), 1002 (best evidence rule).
26
judgment on its claim for specific performance, and Woody was entitled to summary
judgment that J. Black’s was not entitled to specific performance.
C. The trial court’s determination that damages would be an inadequate
remedy should be reversed.
1. J. Black’s submitted no evidence—let alone conclusive evidence—that
damages would be an inadequate remedy.
Although specific performance is ordinarily granted in certain kinds of cases
(such as sales of realty) based on the inadequacy of legal remedies, specific
performance is not a remedy that exists “as a matter of right” even in those cases.
See United Coin Meter, 493 S.W.2d at 887 (where plaintiffs sought specific
performance of leases involving real estate, court rejected claim that plaintiffs did
not have to prove legal remedies were inadequate). Therefore, it was incumbent on
J. Black’s to prove that legal remedies (i.e., damages) would be inadequate. See
Cytogenix, Inc. v. Waldroff, 213 S.W.3d 479, 489 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.]
2006, pet. denied) (specific performance not available because, among other reasons,
plaintiffs “have not shown that they lack an adequate remedy at law”); United Coin
Meter Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co., 493 S.W.2d 882, 886 (Tex. Civ.
App.—Fort Worth 1973, no writ) (“[T]o get specific performance of a contract the
party seeking it must show that he has no adequate remedy at law by way of an action
for damages for breach of contract, and if an adequate remedy at law is available,
then specific performance will not be granted.”).
Here, however, J. Black’s submitted no admissible summary judgment
evidence that damages would be an inadequate remedy at law in the unlikely event
27
that Woody allegedly committed some future breach of the sublease agreement. By
contrast, it was undisputed that J. Black’s has been in continuous possession of the
premises since September 1, 2006, and has been conducting its business for well
over 8 years. In addition, financial information attached to both Sean Fric’s and
Woody’s affidavits demonstrated that J. Black’s maintained past financial records,
which could have been used to calculate lost profit damages if a breach had occurred.
15CR1256-1261, 1591-96;12 see United Coin Meter, 493 S.W.2d at 888 (“It is
obvious that since the plaintiffs had been engaged in the performance of these
contracts for more than 5 years that all data needed for proving the damages they
would sustain by reason of defendant’s breach of contract is readily available to
them”).
As the court stated in United Coin Meter, “Since the only benefit plaintiffs
could get from a performance of the contracts for the rest of the terms is the amount
of net profits they would realize from a complete performance of the contracts, a
judgment awarding recovery of that amount would be an adequate remedy.” Id. at
888 (citing Lone Star Salt Co. v. Texas Short Line Ry. Co., 99 Tex. 434, 90 S.W. 863
(1906)). J. Black’s failure to prove this required element for specific performance
defeats its entitlement to such relief. See United Coin Meter, 493 S.W.2d at 887.
2. J. Black’s did not move for summary judgment on this element.
On remand, J. Black’s summary judgment motion did not expressly move for
12
Because Woody is a limited partner of J. Black’s, he occasionally receives financial
information, such as statements of cash flow, balance sheets and profit and loss.
28
summary judgment on the issue of a lack of an adequate remedy at law. In addition,
both J. Black’s motion and J. Black’s response to Woody’s summary judgment
motion argued that the trial court had to comply with the court of appeals’ mandate
and solely address the ready/willing/able element. 15CR1007-08; 15CR1308 &
n.14.
The body of J. Black’s motion did briefly argue that J. Black’s legal remedies
were inadequate. 15CR1005-06. But given (1) J. Black’s repeated claims that the
only issue for the trial court was the ready/willing/able element as well as (2) the
lack of any other specifically listed grounds for summary judgment, the trial court’s
resulting order should be treated as invalid for granting summary judgment on
grounds not presented by the movant. See Roberts v. Southwest Texas Methodist
Hosp., 811 S.W.2d 141, 146 (Tex. App.—San Antonio 1991), writ denied (Oct. 16,
1991) (“When a motion for summary judgment asserts grounds A and B, it cannot
be upheld on grounds C and D, which were not asserted, even if the summary
judgment proof supports them and the responding party did not except to the
motion.”). Woody brought this error to the trial court attention in his motion for new
trial, 15CR1660-61, which the trial court denied, 15CR1707.
For these reasons, J. Black’s was not entitled to summary judgment on its
claim for specific performance, and Woody was entitled to summary judgment that
J. Black’s was not entitled to specific performance.
D. The trial court’s award of specific performance is improper because it is not
based on a breach associated with any present performance obligation.
Before the first appeal, J. Black’s sought specific performance of the first
29
extension of the parties’ original sublease. On remand after the first appeal, J.
Black’s abandoned that request, which was moot for two reasons. For one, the first
extended term had expired on August 31, 2012. Second, after the judgment in the
first case, Woody and J. Black’s executed an amended sublease agreement, which
changed some of the sublease’s requirements concerning food service and alterations
to the premises. 15CR1636-1638. In other words, neither the contract, nor the
contract term, that previously was at issue existed anymore. Consistently, on
remand, J. Black’s did not even ask the trial court to order specific performance of
the first contract extension term of the parties’ original contract.13 Instead, J. Black’s
asked the trial court to issue a decree of specific performance ordering Woody not
to interfere with J. Black’s right to peaceful and quiet possession of the sublease
premises during the second (and possibly third and fourth) extended terms of their
current contract:
“J. Black’s is entitled to a grant of specific performance of
the Sublease and a judgment that Woody be compelled to
comply with its obligation to allow J. Black’s to peaceably
and quietly maintain its right to possess and enjoy the
Premises thereunder.”
15CR1009. The trial court went even further, issuing a broad order that “Woody
shall specifically perform the entirety of his obligations under that certain Sublease
13
Accord United Coin Meter Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co., 493 S.W.2d 882,
891 (Tex. Civ. App.—Fort Worth 1973, no writ) (“It is obvious that since the terms
provided for in the contracts have come to an end, that a court can no longer order specific
performance of that contract. We would have affirmed the entire judgment had not part of
the case become moot.”).
30
Agreement dated August 21, 2006, as it has been extended and modified,”
15CR1653, ostensibly based on J. Black’s fear that Woody might someday in the
future assert a made-up claim of default by J. Black’s. 15CR1010-11.
J. Black’s request for specific performance was invalid for two reasons. First,
J. Black’s had no pleadings on file alleging a breach by Woody of any implied
covenant of peaceful and quiet possession, let alone with respect to the amended
contract. Woody objected to J. Black’s request for summary judgment on an
unpleaded theory, 15CR1272-75,14 which the trial court overruled, 15CR1639. The
trial court committed an abuse of discretion by entertaining a motion for summary
judgment on an unpleaded legal theory, which was harmful because the court
granted summary judgment in favor of J. Black’s. Second, J. Black’s had no
evidence that Woody had actually breached the covenant.15
The court’s broader award was invalid for these same reasons, but it also was
invalid for two additional reasons. First, it was an abuse of discretion and legally
infirm to grant broader relief than J. Black’s requested. See Hegar v. Ryan, LLC,
No. 03-13-00400-CV, 2015 WL 3393917, at *8 (Tex. App.—Austin May 20, 2015,
no. pet. h.) (error for trial court to grant broader relief than requested).
Second, a generic decree to simply perform all future obligations under a
contract is improper under Texas law. In particular, it is improper for a court to
14
See also 15CR1655-56.
15
Indeed, with respect to the parties’ amended sublease, J. Black’s had no evidence that
Woody had ever even threatened to breach any performance obligation.
31
order a party to perform a continuous series of future acts extending over a long
period of time:
“[T]o order specific performance . . . present performance
must be possible. . . . A court should not decree future
contractual performance by requiring a party to perform a
continuous series of acts, extending through a long period
of time, over which the court exercises its supervision. . . .
Instead, absent a significant public interest, parties to a
private contract are left to their remedies at law. . . . Here,
the trial court’s injunction seeks to enforce the future
contractual rights of the parties, not to stop any current
breach of the agreements and enforce present
performance. . . . We conclude that the agreements do not
support specific performance by injunctive enforcement .
. . . .”
Cytogenix, Inc. v. Waldroff, 213 S.W.3d 479, 487-88 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st
Dist.] 2006, pet. denied).16
Here, the parties’ amended sublease has numerous provisions and there was
no evidence that Woody was breaching – or even threatening to breach – any of
16
See also United Coin Meter Co., Inc. v. Johnson-Campbell Lumber Co., 493 S.W.2d
882, 888 (Tex. Civ. App.—Fort Worth 1973, no writ) (“[A] court of equity . . . will not
decree a party to perform a continuous series of acts extending through a long period of
time, requiring constant supervision by the court . . . .” (internal quotation marks omitted));
United Coin Meter, 493 S.W.2d at 889 (“[Under the contracts at issue,] the plaintiffs were
required monthly . . . to go to the [laundry] machines, collect the money from them, count
it[,] and to give the apartment owners their part of the proceeds. One of the contracts had
several years yet to run. . . . [T]he court could not render a specific performance decree
capable of being presently performed that would dispose of the entire controversy and this
was an additional reason why the court did not err in refusing to decree specific
performance of the contracts.”); S. Plains Switching, Ltd. Co. v. BNSF Ry. Co., 255 S.W.3d
690, 703 (Tex. App.—Amarillo 2008, pet. denied) (“The purpose of specific performance
is to compel a party who is violating a duty under a valid contract to comply with his
obligations.” (citing Griffin’s Estate v. Sumner, 604 S.W.2d 221, 225 (Tex. Civ. App.—
San Antonio 1980, writ ref’d n.r.e.) (emphasis added)).
32
them, whether related to the current term or any future term. Moreover, that
sublease is currently expected to continue through August 2018 – and potentially
August 2021 if J. Black’s exercises its fourth term extension option. In such a
situation, a general decree to simply “perform the entirety” of one’s obligations is
improper.
For example, in United Coin Meter, the court rejected the remedy of specific
performance where, after trial, (1) there remained a period of years before one of the
contracts would end and (2) the contracts called for performance by the parties (or
their representatives) of additional unperformed acts during that period. 493 S.W.2d
at 877. Like the contract in United Coin Meter, the parties’ sublease contains
numerous obligations (yet unperformed) over a long period of time. Because a
decree of specific performance would require court supervision for potentially
several more years, specific performance is not appropriate. See id.; see also South
Plains Switching, Ltd. Co. v. BNSF Ry. Co., 255 S.W.3d 690, 703 (Tex. App.-
Amarillo 2008, no pet) (court generally will not decree a party to perform a
continuous series of acts which extend through a long period of time and require
constant supervision by the court).17
Moreover, a generic decree aimed at future events does not end any current
or future controversy. Both parties have continuing rights and obligations under the
17
Instead, parties are left to their remedies at law unless the public interest is involved.
Beckham v. Munger Oil & Cotton Co., 185 S.W. 991, 992 (Tex. Civ. App.–Dallas 1916,
no writ).
33
sublease well into the future. If Woody or J. Black’s breaches any future
performance obligation, the appropriate remedy is for the parties to be left to their
claims for breach of contract at the time of any breach. See Am. Hous. Res., Inc. v.
Slaughter, 597 S.W.2d 13, 16 (Tex. Civ. App.—Dallas 1980, writ ref’d n.r.e.) (order
granting specific performance was improper where it “would not grant complete
relief” and “would leave unresolved the ultimate liability of the [defendants] and, in
that respect, would provide no more adequate or prompt relief than if the [plaintiffs]
were relegated to a suit for damages upon a final determination of whether the
[defendants were actually liable for anything] . . . . [The order’s] only purpose would
be to provide a ready means of enforcing an ultimate claim for damages. We know
of no authority, and appellees have cited none, that would support use of the
equitable remedy of specific performance for such a purpose.”).
E. An order of specific performance must compel performance by both parties.
A proper decree of specific performance includes an order against both sides
so as to end the controversy. Here, the order does nothing except tell Woody to
comply with the terms of the lease, which he was already obliged to do and which
there was no evidence of any threat that he wouldn’t. See United Coin Meter, 493
S.W.2d at 888 (“[I]n the enforcement of affirmative promises[,] a court of equity
deems it neither wise nor just to enforce one or more of such promises in a contract
unless it can enforce all of the contract outstanding at the time of the suit, including
the promises of the plaintiff as well as those of the defendant.” (internal quotation
marks omitted)); Galbreath v. Farrell, 249 S.W. 277, 280 (Tex. Civ. App.—Dallas
34
1923, no writ hist.) (“[B]efore a court of equity will enforce affirmative promises
made by defendant in behalf of the plaintiff, it must also be able to enforce the
affirmative promises made by plaintiff in behalf of the defendant.”). The trial court’s
award was improper because it binds Woody but not J. Black’s.
III. The district court erred in awarding attorney’s fees, interest, and costs to
J. Blacks.
A. The basis for the award – specific performance – was improper.
If the Court agrees that specific performance is unavailable, as argued above,
then it should vacate the trial court’s award of fees, interest, and costs, which were
premised solely upon that award.
B. Even if specific performance were available, J. Black’s would not be entitled
to attorney’s fees because it obtained nothing of value and/or because it
obtained no award of damages.
To recover attorney’s fees under the statute allowing such recovery in breach
of contract claims, a litigant must do two things: (1) prevail on a breach of contract
claim and (2) recover damages. See TEX. CIV. PRAC. & REM. CODE § 38.001; MBM
Financial Corp. v. Woodlands Operating Co., LP, 292 S.W.3d 660, 666 (Tex. 2009);
Ashford Partners, Ltd. v. ECO Res., Inc., 401 S.W.3d 35, 40 (Tex. 2012).
J. Black’s recovered no monetary damages against Woody and is not entitled
to recover attorney’s fees against under § 38.001. See Green Int., Inc. v. Solis, 951
S.W.2d 384, 391 (Tex. 1997) (because Green failed to recover damages on its breach
of contract claim, Green was not entitled to recover attorney’s fees under Section
38.001); Ashford Partners, 401 S.W.3d at 40 (“[T]o qualify for fees under the
statute, a litigant must prevail on a breach of contract claim and recover damages.”);
35
Haubold v. Med. Carbon Research Inst., LLC, 03-11-00115-CV, 2014 WL 1018008,
at *7 (Tex. App.—Austin Mar. 14, 2014, no pet.).
J. Black’s may argue that some courts have allowed fees under § 38.001, even
when no damages are recovered, based on an award of specific performance if the
award is of “value” or “enforcement prevents actual loss to the aggrieved party.”
Boyaki v. John M. O’Quinn & Associates, PLLC, 01-12-00984-CV, 2014 WL
4855021, at *14 (Tex. App.—Houston [1st Dist.] Sept. 30, 2014, pet. filed). But
here, the decree of specific performance is of no value and prevents no actual loss
because the summary judgment evidence established that ever since the parties’
original disputes arose, they both performed under the sublease (for over six years),
successfully amended it, and successfully invoked and recognized multiple
extensions. For these reasons, this Court should vacate the trial court’s award of
fees, interest, and costs.
CONCLUSION
For these reasons, this Court should reverse the trial court’s summary
judgment in favor of J. Black’s and enter summary judgment in favor of Woody on
J. Black’s claim for specific performance. The Court should also vacate the trial
court’s award to J. Black’s of attorney’s fees, interest, and costs. Alternatively, if
the Court determines that neither party was entitled to summary judgment on J.
Black’s claim for specific performance, then the Court should vacate the trial court’s
judgment and remand for further proceedings. Appellant also requests all such other
and further relief to which he may be entitled.
36
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Jeremy Gaston
Jeremy Gaston
Texas SBN 24012685
jgaston@hmgnc.com
HAWASH MEADE GASTON
NEESE & CICACK LLP
2118 Smith Street
Houston, Texas 77002
Telephone: (713) 658-9001
Facsimile: (713) 658-9011
Rick Gray
Texas SBN 08328300
rick.gray@graybecker.com
Gray & Becker, PC
900 West Avenue
Austin, TX 78701-2210
Telephone: 512-482-0061
Facsimile: 512-482-0924
Tom C. McCall
Texas SBN 13350300
tmccall@themccallfirm.com
David B. McCall
Texas SBN 13344500
dmccall@themccallfirm.com
The McCall Firm
3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Telephone: (512) 477-4242
Facsimile: (512) 477-2271
Hector H. Cardenas, Jr.
Texas SBN 00790422
hcardenas@cardenas-law.com
THE CARDENAS LAW FIRM
3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Telephone: (512) 477-4242
Facsimile: (512) 477-2271
Counsel for Appellant
37
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
This brief complies with the length limitation of TEX. R. APP. P. 9.4(i)(2)(B)
because this brief contains 10,181 words but excluding those parts of the brief
exempted by TEX. R. APP. P. 9.4(i)(1).
/s/ Jeremy Gaston
Jeremy Gaston
38
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I certify that on September 18, 2015 a true and correct copy of the foregoing
document was served on the following counsel of record by electronic filing:
Eric J. Taube
Andrew Vickers
TAUBE SUMMERS HARRISON TAYLOR MEINZER BROWN, LLP
100 Congress Avenue, 18th Floor
Austin, Texas 78701
Counsel for Appellees
/s/ Jeremy Gaston
Jeremy Gaston
39
No. 03-15-00293-CV
__________________________________________________________________
In the Court of Appeals
For the Third Judicial District of Texas
Austin, Texas
__________________________________________________________________
BOB E. WOODY,
Plaintiff-Appellant,
v.
J. BLACK’S, LP and J. BLACK’S, GP, LLC,
Defendants-Appellees.
________________________________________________________
On Appeal from Cause No. D-1-GN-09-001436
In the 345th Judicial District Court of Travis County, Texas
The Honorable Steven Yelenosky Presiding
________________________________________________________
APPENDIX OF APPELLANT BOB E. WOODY
Jeremy Gaston Tom C. McCall
HAWASH MEADE GASTON David B. McCall
NEESE & CICACK LLP THE MCCALL FIRM
2118 Smith Street 3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Houston, Texas 77002 Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Rick Gray Hector H. Cardenas, Jr.
GRAY & BECKER, PC THE CARDENAS LAW FIRM
900 West Avenue 3660 Stoneridge Road, Suite F-102
Austin, TX 78701-2210 Austin, Texas 78746-7759
Counsel for Appellant
APPENDIX CONTENTS
Tab Description Date
1 Amarillo Court of Appeals’ Decision October 18, 2013
2 Final Judgment March 31, 2015
i
Tab One
Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., Not Reported in S.W.3d (2013)
2013 WL 5744359
2013 WL 5744359
Only the Westlaw citation is currently available.
SEE TX R RAP RULE 47.2 FOR DESIGNATION AND SIGNING OF OPINIONS.
MEMORANDUM OPINION
Court of Appeals of Texas,
Amarillo.
Bob E. WOODY, The Ranch L.L.C., and Hector H. Cardenas, Jr., Appellants
v.
J. BLACK’s, L.P. and J. Black’s, G.P., L.L.C., Appellees.
No. 07–12–00192–CV. | Oct. 18, 2013. | Rehearing overruled Dec. 19, 2013.
On Appeal from the 345th District Court Travis County, Texas, Trial Court No. D–1–GN–09–001436, Honorable Stephen
Yelenosky, Presiding.
Attorneys and Law Firms
Tom C. McCall, David B. Mccall, Hector H. Cardenas, for The Ranch L.L.C., Hector H. Cardenas Jr., and Bob E. Woody.
Eric J. Taube, for J. Black’s, L.P. and J. Black’s, G.P., L.L.C.
Before CAMPBELL and HANCOCK and PIRTLE, JJ.
MEMORANDUM OPINION
JAMES T. CAMPBELL, Justice.
*1 This appeal arises from a commercial landlord-tenant dispute over the sublease of premises located in Austin. Judgment in
the trial court was for appellee J. Black’s, LP and J. Black’s, GP, LLC (J. Black’s). Appellant Bob E. Woody and the Ranch,
LLC (Woody) present five issues on appeal. Woody’s attorney, Hector H. Cardenas, Jr., joins Woody’s fifth issue
challenging an award of monetary sanctions in favor of J. Black’s. We will affirm in part and otherwise reverse and remand
for further proceedings.
Background
In 2006, Woody leased property located at 710 West 6th Street in Austin from Montwalk Holdings, LP (the master lease).
Woody subleased the first floor of the structure to J. Black’s for use as a bar and restaurant. Woody operated a bar known as
“The Ranch” in the space above and beside J. Black’s. Mr. Woody is also a limited partner in J. Black’s.
The primary term of the sublease began September 1, 2006, and ended August 31, 2009, but the sublease gave J. Black’s
options for extending the term.
To exercise its option to extend the sublease term for an additional thirty-six months, the sublease required J. Black’s to
provide Woody written notice by March 4, 2009. By notice sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, dated February
© 2015 Thomson Reuters. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. 1
Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., Not Reported in S.W.3d (2013)
2013 WL 5744359
23, 2009, J. Black’s stated its intention to extend the sublease term through August 31, 2012. The notice was addressed to
Woody at the location specified in the sublease. However, it was not received by Woody.
Through two March 2009 letters, Woody demanded that J. Black’s cure asserted sublease defaults concerning food service
and installation of gas heaters connected to Woody’s gas meter without consent and without city permits. J. Black’s paid
Woody the amount demanded for natural gas used by the heaters and eventually removed the heaters.
During April 2009 Woody’s gave J. Black’s written notice that its February 23, 2009 notice was not received and the
sublease term therefore was not extended. Woody demanded that J. Black’s vacate the premises by midnight on August 31,
2009.
Woody filed suit on May 5, 2009, alleging J. Black’s committed conversion, breach of contract, theft, and trespass to
personal property. At Woody’s request, a temporary restraining order issued against J. Black’s.
J. Black’s answered and through a counterclaim alleged Woody committed fraud concerning the issue of gas heaters and that
Woody “repudiated and breached” the sublease by alleging non-existent lease defaults, refusing to recognize the extension of
the sublease term, and demanding that J. Black’s vacate the premises. J. Black’s requested specific performance of the
sublease, or alternatively, damages.
J. Black’s moved for partial summary judgment on its breach of contract counterclaim. It argued Woody breached the
sublease by refusing to acknowledge the extension of the sublease term and demanding holdover rent. The motion was set for
hearing on December 14, 2009. On December 9, Woody filed a document containing a response to the motion and its own
motion for partial summary judgment on the grounds that J. Black’s breached the sublease and that the sublease expired on
August 31, 2009. J. Black’s objected to the untimeliness of notice and the trial court did not consider Woody’s motion at the
December 14 hearing. According to an order signed December 17, the trial court granted J. Black’s motion “in full.”
*2 Through an August 2010 motion, J. Black’s sought a second partial summary judgment requesting judgment that it did not
breach the sublease, Woody breached the sublease by asserting groundless defaults, and J. Black’s did not commit
conversion, trespass, and theft as Woody alleged. The trial court rendered a partial summary judgment that Woody take
nothing on its claims that J. Black’s defaulted on the sublease and on Woody’s claims against J. Black’s for conversion,
trespass, and theft. Judgment was not granted, however, on J. Black’s claim that Woody breached the sublease by falsely
asserting defaults.
During November 2010, J. Black’s filed a third motion for partial summary judgment, this time requesting specific
performance of the sublease and an award of attorney’s fees under Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 38.001 and the master
lease.
In January 2011, the trial court signed a judgment, in the form of a final judgment, which, among other things, decreed
specific performance and awarded J. Black’s the requested attorney’s fees under section 38.001. Woody’s motion for new
trial was granted by an order signed in April 2011.
In October 2011, Woody filed a motion for summary judgment on the grounds that the sublease terminated on August 31,
2009, that J. Black’s was in default, and seeking recovery of holdover rent. J. Black’s responded and also requested sanctions
against Woody and Cardenas under Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 10. According to J. Black’s, Woody’s motion
for summary judgment sought relief previously rejected by the trial court. The trial court denied Woody’s motion and entered
a monetary sanction of $6,958.00 against Woody and Cardenas. A final judgment was signed on January 12, 2012, and
Woody’s motion to modify and for new trial was denied by order signed March 28, 2012.
Analysis
Extension of Sublease
© 2015 Thomson Reuters. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. 2
Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., Not Reported in S.W.3d (2013)
2013 WL 5744359
By its first, second, and third issues Woody contends the trial court erred in adjudging Woody breached the sublease by
refusing to acknowledge its extension by J. Black’s.
We review the trial court’s grant of summary judgment de novo. Provident Life & Accident Ins. Co. v. Knott, 128 S.W.3d
211, 215 (Tex.2003). We take as true all evidence favorable to the non-movant, and indulge every reasonable inference and
resolve any doubt in the non-movant’s favor. Nixon v. Mr. Property Management Co., 690 S.W.2d 546, 548–49 (Tex.1985).
To obtain summary judgment, a movant must conclusively prove all essential elements of its claim. MMP, Ltd. v. Jones, 710
S.W.2d 59, 60 (Tex.1986).
In part relevant to this discussion, the sublease provides:
3.01 Term.... If Sublessee is not in default under the Sublease, and subject to notice from Sublessee to
Sublessor at least one hundred and eighty (180) days prior to the end of the Term or an extension of the
Term, that Sublessee intends to exercise one or all of sublessee’s four options to extend the Sublease
for thirty-six (36) additional months, each as further described in Section 4.01 (the “Option Periods”),
the term of the sublease may be extended by Sublessee accordingly. The option to renew belongs to
Sublessee and will not require Lessor’s or Sublessor’s approval.
*3 Material to the parties’ present dispute, the sublease further provides:
9.04 Notices.Subject to Article 1.021 hereof, all notices, consents, requests, instructions, approvals and other
communications provided for herein and all legal process in regard hereto shall be validly given, made or served, if in
writing and delivered personally or sent by United States certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, return receipt
requested:
1 The sublease is not consistent in its use of the identifiers “section” and “article.” Solely for the sake of clarity, we will hereinafter
refer to the numbered paragraphs of the sublease as “sections.”
If to Sublessor:
2204 Point Bluff
Austin, Texas 78746
Attn: Bob Woody
***
or to such other addresses as any party hereto may, from time to time, designate in writing delivered in a like manner.
Woody’s contention summary judgment for J. Black’s was improper begins with the summary judgment evidence Woody did
not receive the February 23, 2009 notice J. Black’s sent by certified mail, return receipt requested. According to Woody’s
interpretation of the sublease’s section 9.04, an effective notice, if sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, must
actually be delivered to the addressee. For support for his reading of the section, Woody depends on the phrase “delivered in
a like manner,” appearing at the section’s end. His reading is further supported, Woody contends, by the language of section
3.01 of the sublease which requires notice of extension “from” J. Black’s “to” Woody. Woody contends that because he did
not receive J. Black’s notice, it was not delivered nor was it notice “to” him.
We follow settled rules of contract construction when construing a lease.Luccia v. Ross, 274 S.W.3d 140, 146
(Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] 2008, pet. denied). Construction of an unambiguous contract is a question of law we review de
novo. Tawes v. Barnes, 340 S.W.3d 419, 425 (Tex.2011). Our primary concern when construing a written contract is
ascertaining and giving effect to the intention of the parties expressed in the document. Frost Nat’l Bank v. L & F Distribs.,
Ltd., 165 S.W.3d 310, 311–12 (Tex.2005). If possible, when construing a contract, we first consider the instrument’s plain
language.Rowan Companies, Inc. v. Wilmington Trust Co., 305 S.W.3d 698, 708 (Tex.App.-Houston [14th Dist.] 2009, pet.
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granted, judgm’t vacated w.r.m.); see Lesikar v. Moon, 237 S.W.3d 361, 367 (Tex.App.-Houston [14th Dist.] 2007, pet.
denied) (“Common words should be given their plain meaning unless the context indicates the words were used in another
sense”). Absent the manifestation of a different intention, courts interpret contract language according to its generally
prevailing meaning. Rowan Companies, Inc., 305 S.W.3d at 708.
We find Woody’s contentions meritless. By the plain language of section 9.04 of the sublease, notices are validly given if in
writing and delivered personally or sent by United States certified or registered mail, postage prepaid, return receipt
requested to the designated address. Woody’s reading, requiring that notices sent by certified mail be delivered, ignores the
section’s plain provision of alternate means of giving notice, by personal delivery or by mail, certified or registered. See J.M.
Davidson, Inc. v. Webster, 128 S.W.3d 223, 229 (Tex.2003) (to ascertain the true intentions of the parties from an instrument,
a court “must examine and consider the entire writing in an effort to harmonize and give effect to all the provisions of the
contract so that none will be rendered meaningless”).
*4 The phrase to which Woody points, “delivered in a like manner,” plainly refers not to the giving of notices or other
communications but to a party’s designation of a notice address other than that listed in the sublease. If, as Woody contends,
the phrase requires that such designations actually be delivered, a question that is not before us and on which we express no
opinion, such would not be surprising, since designation of a new notice address by a party amounts to an amendment of the
sublease.
If resort to rules of construction is necessary to aid our understanding of the role of the phrase “delivered in a like manner,”
we find the grammatical “rule of the last antecedent” applicable. The rule provides that “qualifying words, phrases, and
clauses” apply only to the immediately preceding words or phrase and “are not to be construed as extending to and including
others more remote.”2Rowan Companies, Inc., 305 S.W.3d at 708;see Stewman Ranch, Inc. v. Double M. Ranch, Ltd., 192
S.W.3d 808, 812 (Tex.App.-Eastland 2006, pet. denied) (explaining rule and noting it is not inflexible or controlling and
must be applied with due regard for the entire instrument).Cf. Barnhart v. Thomas, 540 U.S. 20, 26, 124 S.Ct. 376, 157
L.Ed.2d 333 (2003) (last antecedent rule not absolute and can be overcome by other indicia of meaning).
2 The last antecedent rule of construction means that “A or B with respect to C” contains two items: (1) “A” and (2) “B with respect
to C.” Stepnowski v. Comm’r, 456 F.3d 320, 324 n. 7 (3d Cir.2006).
The rule of the last antecedent supports the plain meaning we discern in the section’s wording. Under the rule, the phrase
“delivered in a like manner” would be deemed to apply to the immediately preceding phrase “such other addresses as any
party hereto may, from time to time, designate in writing.”It would not be read to leap backward and modify the
plainly-stated options of giving notice by certified or registered mail. Stewman Ranch, Inc., 192 S.W.3d at 812 (“relative and
qualifying phrases are to be applied to the words or phrases immediately preceding them....”).
Woody makes a passing alternative claim that the notice provision of the sublease is ambiguous. If a contract is subject to
two or more reasonable interpretations after applying the pertinent rules of construction, the contract is ambiguous, creating a
fact issue on the parties’ intent.Webster, 128 S.W.3d at 229. Aside from whether Woody properly may raise ambiguity for the
first time on appeal, our conclusion the provision’s plain language, supported by an applicable rule of construction, lends
itself to only one reasonable reading requires us also to conclude it is not ambiguous.
Woody makes brief reference to its motion for partial summary judgment seeking holdover rent. But this argument depends
on a finding that J. Black’s did not provide timely notice of its intention to carry the sublease into the first option period.
Absent such a finding, the argument also is without merit.
Finding the trial court was correct to conclude J. Black’s gave timely notice of its intention to extend the term of the sublease,
we overrule Woody’s first, second and third issues.
Specific Performance
*5 Woody argues by its fourth issue that the trial court erred in decreeing specific performance in favor of J. Black’s and
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awarding J. Black’s attorney’s fees. In subpart (C) of the issue, Woody specifically contends J. Black’s failed to prove it was
ready, willing and able to perform the first option term of the sublease.3
3 The nub of the question concerns extending the sublease into the first option period, that is from August 31, 2009, through August
31, 2012. But before briefing was completed on appeal, the first option period had expired. The issue whether the trial court’s
decree of specific performance was correct might thus be moot. See United Coin Meter Co. v. Johnson–Campbell Lumber Co., 493
S.W.2d 882, 890–91 (Tex.Civ.App.-Fort Worth 1973, no writ) (appellate challenge of trial court’s refusal to order specific
performance of lease dismissed as moot because secondary term of lease expired while case was on appeal). But, because J.
Black’s award of attorney’s fees is contested on appeal, and depends on the viability of the trial court’s decree of specific
performance, the issue is not moot. See Allstate Ins. Co. v. Hallman, 159 S.W.3d 640, 642–43 (Tex.2005) (appellee’s remaining
issue in recovering attorney’s precluded application of mootness doctrine).
J. Black’s obtained its decree of specific performance through its third motion for partial summary judgment. As to this
remedy, the final judgment says only, “Specific Performance of the Sublease is equitable and necessary to afford [J. Black’s]
sufficient relief[.]” From its pleading, it appears the performance J. Black’s sought was of “the terms related to the extension
of the term of the Sublease” although in its brief it tells us the judgment of the trial court requires “Woody to treat J. Black’s
as a tenant in good standing, allow it to peacefully exist in the subleased space pursuant to the terms of the Sublease as
executed, and not continuously demand holdover rent at an increased rate.”
The equitable remedy of specific performance operates to compel a party violating a duty under a valid contract to comply
with its obligations. S. Plains Switching, Ltd. v. BNSF Ry., 255 S.W.3d 690, 703 (Tex.App.-Amarillo 2008, pet. denied). The
rationale is, when the recovery of monetary damages is inadequate to compensate the complainant the transgressor is
compelled to perform the promise of its contract. Id. (citing Estate of Griffin v. Sumner, 604 S.W.2d 221, 225
(Tex.Civ.App.-San Antonio 1980, writ ref’d n.r.e.)).
To obtain specific performance, a party must, among other things, plead and prove it was ready, willing and able to timely
perform its obligations under the contract. DiGiuseppe v. Lawler, 269 S.W.3d 588, 593 (Tex.2008). This means even though
a defendant refuses to perform its contractual obligations, a plaintiff must show it could have performed its contractual
obligations.Id. (citing Corzelius v. Oliver, 148 Tex. 76, 220 S.W.2d 632, 635 (1949)).“[T]o be entitled to specific
performance, the plaintiff must show that it has substantially performed its part of the contract, and that it is able to continue
performing its part of the agreement. The plaintiff’s burden of proving readiness, willingness and ability is a continuing one
that extends to all times relevant to the contract and thereafter.”Id. (quoting 25 Richard A. Lord, Williston on Contracts §
67:15, at 236–37 (4th ed.2002) (citations omitted)); Henry S. Miller Co. v. Stephens, 587 S.W.2d 491, 492
(Tex.Civ.App.-Dallas 1979, writ ref’d n.r.e.) (noting a party seeking specific performance must at all times remain ready,
willing and able to perform its contractual responsibilities according to the terms of the contract). Even in the face of
repudiation of the contract by the defendant, a plaintiff seeking specific performance must demonstrate its own readiness,
willingness and ability to perform on the date set by the contract if specific performance is to be decreed. DiGiuseppe, 269
S.W.3d at 593 (quoting Edward Yorio, Contract Enforcement: Specific Performance and Injunctions § 6.4, at 144–45 (1989)
(citation omitted)); Burford v. Pounders, 145 Tex. 460, 199 S.W.2d 141, 144 (1947) (where the plaintiff’s performance is
excused, the plaintiff “ordinarily is entitled to specific performance where he alleges and proves that he ... is ready, able, and
willing to perform”).But cf. Jarvis v. Peltier, No. 12–12–00180–CV, 2013 Tex.App. Lexis 5017, at * 20, 2013 WL 1755797
(Tex.App.-Tyler Apr. 24, 2013, n.p.h.) (citing Burford, 199 S.W.2d at 145, for rule it is enough on a seller’s breach for a
purchaser to merely plead readiness, willingness and ability to perform but also noting movant for summary judgment in that
case stated his readiness, willingness and ability to perform in his summary judgment affidavit).
*6 Here the primary term of J. Black’s sublease expired on August 31, 2009. But the agreement afforded the sublessee an
optional extension of the term. To do so, J. Black’s was obligated to give timely notice of its intention to carry the sublease
into the option term and be free of default under the sublease. While we have found J. Black’s gave notice within the
specified period, the question here is more focused, asking whether J. Black’s summary judgment evidence conclusively
establishes it was ready, willing and able to perform its obligations under the sublease.
Whether conclusive proof of J. Black’s readiness, willingness and ability to perform its obligations under the sublease could
be marshaled we do not say. Rather, this summary judgment record simply does not contain conclusive proof. We therefore
sustain Woody’s fourth issue, subpart (C). Our review of Woody’s remaining arguments challenging the decree of specific
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2013 WL 5744359
performance is unnecessary to the disposition of this appeal. Tex.R.App. P. 47.1.
Attorney’s Fees
The judgment awards J. Black’s “attorney’s fees under the terms of the parties’ contract and under Tex. Civ. Prac. &
Rem.Code § 38.001.”We begin by noting, and J. Black’s does not contend otherwise, the sublease does not provide a
recovery of attorney’s fees for a prevailing party. Nor do the parties treat the master lease as a source for such relief.4
4 The master lease provides a prevailing signatory may recover attorney’s fees in a “legal proceeding” brought against another
signatory. J. Black’s is not a signatory of the master lease.
Thus J. Black’s recovery of attorney’s fees depends on the provision of Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 38.001(8)
which authorizes recovery of such fees to a party asserting a “valid claim” on a written contract.Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem.Code
§ 38.001(8) (West 2008). A valid claim under section 38.001(8) includes a claim for the recovery of monetary damages as
well as any claim for which a party recovers “at least something of value.” Albataineh v. Eshtehardi, No. 01–12–00671–CV,
2013 Tex.App. Lexis 5406, at *3–4, 2013 WL 1858864 (Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] May 2, 2013, no pet.). An injunction
enforcing specific performance of a contract is something of value.Id.
Citing Green Int’l, Inc. v. Solis, 951 S.W.2d 384, 391 (Tex.1997), Woody argues J. Black’s is not entitled to recover
attorney’s fees under § 38.001 because it was not awarded monetary damages. There the plaintiff sought but did not recover
damages for breach of a subcontract. Id. But in the present matter J. Black’s was not denied monetary damages for breach of
the sublease. Instead it sought an equitable decree. Solis is inapposite.
Nonetheless J. Black’s is not entitled to recover attorney’s fees under section 38.001(8) since it did not present conclusive
proof entitling it to a summary judgment decreeing specific performance. See Roundville Partners, L.L.C. v. Jones, 118
S.W.3d 73, 82 (Tex.App.-Austin 2003, pet. denied) (when a purchaser is denied specific performance it may not recover
attorney’s fees under section 38.001 as it is not a prevailing party).
*7 We sustain Woody’s fourth issue, subparts (G) and (H). Having found the trial court erred by decreeing specific
performance as a matter of law and awarding J. Black’s attorney’s fees under section 38.001(8), we need not address
Woody’s remaining subissues under its fourth issue. Tex.R.App. P. 47.1.
Sanctions
By their fifth issue, Woody and his counsel Cardenas contend the trial court abused its discretion by imposing a monetary
sanction on them under Rule 135 and Chapter 10.6
5 Tex.R. Civ. P. 13.
6 Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem.Code Ann. §§ 10.001–.005 (West 2002).
Woody filed a motion for partial summary judgment on November 11, 2011, which J. Black’s charged in a response and
motion for sanctions merely rehashed issues previously resolved by partial summary judgment. Particularly, according to J.
Black’s, Woody’s:
Motion asserts untimely affirmative defenses, recycles briefing that Judges Triana, Rose and Dietz
have already found unpersuasive, and seeks judgment on claims that have long-since been resolved in
J. Black’s favor in prior summary judgment proceedings. The Motion was filed purely for purposes of
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2013 WL 5744359
harassment and to drive up the cost to J. Black’s of obtaining a final resolution of this case.
The trial court denied Woody relief on its motion for summary judgment and signed an order imposing a monetary sanction
of $6,958 against Woody and Cardenas. The court found Woody’s motion for summary judgment “was filed in violation of
Texas Rule of Civil Procedure Rule 13 and Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 10.001, and was filed by
[Woody] and their counsel to harass [J. Black’s] and to cause unnecessary delay, and that [Woody’s] Motion for Summary
Judgment has caused a needless increase in the cost of litigation.”In a handwritten finding the court added, “In addition the
motion sought rulings that would be contrary to prior rulings of the court, by two different District Judges, and was not
presented to them as a motion to reconsider.”
Rule 13 provides sanctions for a party filing a pleading that is groundless and brought in bad faith or groundless and brought
to harass. Tex.R. Civ. P. 13. A party seeking the imposition of sanctions under Chapter 10 must demonstrate the pleading or
motion was brought for an improper purpose, there were no grounds for the legal arguments advanced, or the factual
allegations or denials lacked evidentiary support. Armstrong v. Collin County Bail Bond Bd., 233 S.W.3d 57, 62
(Tex.App.-Dallas 2007, no pet.); Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem.Code Ann. § 10.001 (West 2002).
Our review of a trial court’s order imposing sanctions under Rule 13 and Chapter 10 is for abuse of discretion. Low v. Henry,
221 S.W.3d 609, 614 (Tex.2007). A trial court abuses its discretion if it acts without regard to guiding rules and principles of
law, such that its ruling is arbitrary or unreasonable. Id. The legal sufficiency of evidence heard by a trial court is a relevant
factor in assessing whether it abused its discretion in imposing sanctions. Armstrong, 233 S.W.3d at 62 (citing Beaumont
Bank, N.A. v. Buller, 806 S.W.2d 223, 226 (Tex.1991)). As fact finder, the trial court is entitled to evaluate the credibility of
the testimony and determine what weight to give it. Wein v. Sherman, 03–10–00499–CV, 2013 Tex.App. Lexis 10666, at
*24, 2013 WL 4516013 (Tex.App.-Austin Aug. 23, 2013, n.p.h.) (mem.op.) (citing Alpert v. Crain, Caton & James, P.C.,
178 S.W.3d 398, 412 (Tex.App.-Houston [1st Dist.] 2005, pet. denied)).
*8 Concerning the imposition of a sanction under Rule 13 and Chapter 10, Woody and Cardenas argue the trial court abused
its discretion by not conducting an evidentiary hearing to consider their subjective state of mind. For the purposes of Chapter
10 and Rule 13, courts presume pleadings, motions, and other papers are filed in good faith. Thottumkal v. McDougal, 251
S.W.3d 715, 718 (Tex.App.-Houston [14th Dist.] 2008, pet. denied) (adopting the same presumption when reviewing a
sanctions award under Chapter 10). The party moving for sanctions bears the burden of overcoming this presumption.Canada
v. Canada, 02–11–00483–CV, 2013 Tex.App. Lexis 5138, at *21–22, 2013 WL 1759894 (Tex.App.-Fort Worth Apr. 25,
2013, n.p.h.) (mem.op.) (citing GTE Commc’ns Sys. Corp. v. Tanner, 856 S.W.2d 725, 731 (Tex.1993) (orig.proceeding)).
Woody’s motion for summary judgment and J. Black’s motion for sanctions were heard on November 21, 2011, apparently
in the course of a single hearing. But the appellate record does not contain a reporter’s record of that November 21 hearing.
The reporter’s record of a hearing conducted in January 2012 reflects a comment by the trial court referring to an event that
occurred at “the sanctions hearing.” We thus infer the trial court considered the proceedings that occurred on November 21 fit
that description.
J. Black’s argues that because the appellate record does not include a reporter’s record of a sanctions hearing we must
presume the court heard evidence sufficient to support the sanctions award. In this case, we disagree. While J. Black’s
attached affidavit evidence to its motion for sanctions and the trial court’s order recites it considered evidence, neither party
asserts the court received evidence at the November 21, 2011 hearing, nor do we find other indication in the record of an
evidentiary “sanctions hearing.” In this circumstance, we must limit our evaluation of the evidence supporting the sanctions
award to that appended to J. Black’s motion.7See Michiana Easy Livin’ Country, Inc. v. Holten, 168 S.W.3d 777, 783
(Tex.2005) (only when proceedings indicate an evidentiary hearing was held must complaining party present a record of that
hearing to establish harmful error).
7 J. Black’s contends the trial court could have taken judicial notice of the contents of its file. According to the record of the January
2012 hearing, the trial court took judicial notice “of the entire file” for determination of a matter other than the imposition of
sanctions. Otherwise, J. Black’s does not point to an indication in the record of judicial notice taken for establishing sanctionable
conduct, nor does it explain how even the entire contents of the clerk’s record would have met the evidentiary requirements to
support sanctions.
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Woody v. J. Black’s, L.P., Not Reported in S.W.3d (2013)
2013 WL 5744359
While J. Black’s motion showed Woody’s October 2011 motion for summary judgment asserted grounds addressed by prior
interlocutory orders, its evidentiary content did not demonstrate the subjective intent of the movant Woody or his attorney
Cardenas. See, e.g., Zeifman v. Nowlin, 322 S.W.3d 804, 810–11 (Tex.App.-Austin 2010, no pet.)(outlining evidence
supporting sanctions under Rule 13).8 We must conclude the trial court acted without evidence supporting the assessment of a
sanction under Rule 13 or Chapter 10 against Woody and Cardenas, and thus abused its discretion by doing so. See
Armstrong, 233 S.W.3d at 62. We sustain Woody’s fifth issue.
8 The Austin Court of Appeals, in whose district this case originated, has held that “awards of attorney’s fees under the Civil
Practice and Remedies Code require essentially the same findings as does rule 13.”Zeifman v. Michels, No. 03–12–00114–CV,
2013 Tex.App. Lexis 10523, at *30, 2013 WL 4516082 (Tex.App.-Austin Aug. 22, 2013, n.p.h.) (mem.op.) (citing Lake Travis
Indep. Sch. Dist. v. Lovelace, 243 S.W.3d 244, 256 (Tex.App.-Austin 2007, no pet.)).
Conclusion
The trial court correctly found that J. Black’s gave timely notice of its intention to carry the sublease into the first option
period. The court erred, however, in finding evidence J. Black offered in support of its claim for specific performance of the
sublease to be conclusive. The award of attorney’s fees predicated on Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 38.001 was
also error. Finally, the trial court abused its discretion by imposing a sanction on Cardenas and Woody under Rule 13 and
Chapter 10. We therefore affirm the judgment of the trial court in part and otherwise reverse the judgment and remand the
case for further proceedings consistent with this opinion.
Pirtle, J., concurs as to the disposition of Issues One through Four, but dissents as to the disposition of Issue Five, without
opinion.
All Citations
Not Reported in S.W.3d, 2013 WL 5744359
End of Document © 2015 Thomson Reuters. No claim to original U.S. Government Works.
© 2015 Thomson Reuters. No claim to original U.S. Government Works. 8
Tab Two
DC BK15093 PG97
t~:r~c:d in T~1c Dk.:~r!ct Court
Tt·:>·~s C:;:;u;Ttv, Texas
At _
MAR 3 I 2.015
_!ftj_{)_ Q
1--
M.
CAUSE NO. D-1·GN-09-001436 \ \;:l\-'.~ L. Pricel Di~:;trict Clerk
BOBE. WOODY § IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF
PlaintifflCounter-Defendant §
§
vs. § TRAVIS COUNTY, TEXAS
§
J. BLACK'S, L.P. AND §
J. BLACK'S, G.P. L.L.C., §
Defendants/Counter-Plaintiffs § 345TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
FINAL JUDGMENT
On January 12, 2012, this Court signed a Final Judgment in this Cause. On October 18,
2013, the Seventh Judicial District Cowt of Appeals, in Cause No. 07-12-00192, 2013 WL
5744359 (Tex. App.-Amarillo Oct. 18, 2013, pet. denied) (mem. op., not designated for
publication), issued its opinion affirming the January 12, 2012 Final Judgment in part, but
reversing and remanding to this Court the issues of the award of specific performance and
attorney's fees. The Court of Appeal's mandate to this Court was filed with the District Clerk of
Travis County on_ April29, 2014.
On March 11, 2015, this Court signed its Order on Motions for Summary Judgment,
Objections and Attendant Motions the (the "March Summary Judgment Order"), by which the
Court, inter alia, GRANTED Defendants/Counter-Plaintiffs' Motion for Final Summary
Judgment in PART, excluding only the amount of attorney's fees, and DENIED
Plaintiffs/Counter-Defendants' Bob E. Woody and The Ranch, LLC's Motion for Summary
Judgment.
On the 25th day of March, 2015, the case was called for trial on the remaining issue of
attorney's fees. Plaintiff/Counter-Defendant Bob E. Woody ("Woody") and Defendants/Counter-
Plaintiffs J. Black's, L.P. and J. Black's, G.P., LLC (collectively, "J.Black's") appeared through
7440-02100486614.001.DOCX 1
Case# D-1-GN-09-001436
1111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111
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DC BK15093 PG98
their respective attorneys and announced ready for trial. Before trial, the Court signed an Order
vacating the March Swnmary Judgment Order as to The Ranch, LLC only, and also signed an
Order Granting the Joint Notice of Non-Suit with prejudice as to The Ranch, LLC.
The Court, having granted J. Black's Motion for Final Summary Judgment in part as to
its entitlement to specific performance, and having considered the evidence, the stipulation of the
parties as to attorney's fees, and the arguments of counsel, hereby renders judgment for J.Black's
against Woody, as follows:
It is ORDERED, ADJUDGED, and DECREED that:
l. Woody shall specifically perform the entirety of his obligations under that certain
Sublease Agreement dated August 21, 2006, as it has been extended and modified
(the "Sublease");
2. As the prevailing party, J. Black's is entitled to recover attorney's fees under
TEX. CIV. PRAC. & REM. CODE §38.001;
3. J. Black's shall recover $173,438.85 in attorney's fees from Woody for services
rendered through the date of this judgment. In addition, J. Black's is
conditionally awarded the following amounts of attorney's fees from Woody: (1)
$20,000.00 in the event of an unsuccessful appeal by Woody to the Court of
Appeals; (2) an additional $5,000.00 if a Petition for Review is filed by Woody,
but not granted by the Texas Supreme Court, or if a petition for review is granted,
an additional $15,000.00 if the Texas Supreme Court requires additional briefmg,
and Woody's appeal to the Texas Supreme Court is unsuccessful.
4. J. Black's is awarded post~judgment interest at the rate of five percent per annum
on the entire judgment from date of judgment until paid; and
5. J.Biack's is allowed such writs and processes as may be necessary in the
enforcement and collection of this Final Judgment.
6. All costs of court, not previously taxed by any Courts of Appeal, are taxed against
Woody. Any amounts previously taxed and unpaid against J. Black's are offset
against amounts taxed against Woody hereunder.
7440-021004S6614.00I.DOCX 2
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DC BK15093 PG99
All relief not granted by prior orders or herein is DENIED. This is a Final Judgment that
disposes of all claims asserted and is
'11\-
Signed thiSJL_ day of --+~-A-.IC.,..!o::::.J!:L_ _ , 2015.
AGREED:
Eric J. Tau e
State Bar No. 19679350
Holunann) Taube & Summers, LLP
100 Congress Ave., Suite 1800
Austin, Texas 78701
512 4 72 5997 -Phone
512 472 5248 -Fax
EricT@hts-law.com
ATIORNEYS FORJ. BLACK'S L.P.
AND J. BLACK'S G.P. L.L.C
AGREED AS TO FORM:
Rick Gray
State Bar No. 0832800
Gray & Becker, PC
900 West Ave.
Austin, Texas 78701
512 482 0061- Phone
512 482 0924 -Fax
Rick.Gray@graybecker.com
7440-021004B66l4.001 .OOCX 3
1654
Bob E. Woody v. J. Black's, LP And J. Black's GP, LLC
Combined Opinion