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570 So. 2d 439

Smith v. Copitech Corp.

District Court of Appeal of Florida

Decided November 29, 1990

District Court of Appeal of Florida · decided 1990-11-29

Relies on 511 So. 2d 977 - Cheek v. McGowan Elec. Supply Co.

Decided 1990-11-29

DAUKSCH, Judge.

¶1This is before the court by petition for writ of certiorari to review the circuit court’s denial of attorney’s fees on appeal.

¶2The circuit court departed from the essential requirements of law by refusing to award attorney’s fees to the petitioner. Respondent agreed to pay attorney’s fees in the event it breached the lease. The county court awarded damages for breach of the lease to the lessor, which was affirmed on appeal to the circuit court. The county court in its ruling against respondent reserved jurisdiction to award an amount of fees and upon ultimate remand can properly assess and award fees for petitioner. The circuit court, acting in its appellate capacity, likewise should assess and award fees from respondent to petitioner. See Cheek v. McGowan Electric Supply Co., 511 So.2d 977 (Fla.1987).

¶3The petition for writ of certiorari is granted and the order denying fees is quashed. This cause is remanded for proper assessment and award of fees to petitioner.

¶4It is so ordered.

COWART and GRIFFIN, JJ., concur.
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