SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1 of 16
Download to read offline
Filed 8/25/14; pub. order 9/23/14 (see end of opn.) 
IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA 
FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT 
DIVISION THREE 
ROBERT C. FLEET et al., 
Plaintiffs and Appellants, 
v. 
BANK OF AMERICA N.A. et al., 
Defendants and Respondents. 
G050049 
(Super. Ct. No. CIVRS1204737) 
O P I N I O N 
Appeal from a judgment of the Superior Court of San Bernardino County, 
Joseph R. Brisco, Judge. Affirmed in part and reversed in part. 
Robert C. Fleet and Alina O. Szpak-Fleet, in pro. per., for Plaintiffs and 
Appellants. 
McGuireWoods, Leslie M. Werlin and Blake S. Olson for Defendants and 
Respondents.
INTRODUCTION 
This appeal represents another example of what is becoming a well 
established and predictable pattern. A homeowner in distress because of the meltdown of 
the financial markets applies to a lender for mortgage relief. The lender approves the 
homeowner’s participation in a government-funded program meant to lower mortgage 
payments and avoid foreclosure. The homeowner tries to comply with the terms of the 
mortgage modification program. He or she contacts the lender to make sure everything is 
proceeding according to plan and either receives assurances that it is or is passed from 
person to person, each of whom professes to know nothing about the loan in question or 
its modification. Sometimes both. Then the foreclosure notice is posted on the door, and 
the house is sold. 
Robert and Alina Fleet, appellants in this case, alleged just such a pattern in 
their first amended complaint against respondent Bank of America (BofA). Because they 
are representing themselves, their complaint is not in the form to which courts are 
accustomed.1 Nevertheless, allegations of viable causes of action can be sufficiently 
discerned to defeat a demurrer. We therefore reverse the judgment dismissing their case 
against BofA and return them to the trial court for further proceedings. 
FACTS2 
The Fleets owned a house in Montclair. They obtained a mortgage loan 
from BofA in 2004. They applied to have their loan modified in 2009 under the Making 
Homes Affordable Act. Then began month after month of telephone conversations with 
and letters to various BofA-related personnel, who either (a) assured the Fleets that 
1 The trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer to the Fleets’ original complaint and told the Fleets they 
had to plead with more specificity. The Fleets evidently took this admonition to mean they had to try their case in 
their amended complaint. The result is a complex and fact-intensive document that requires concentration and 
dogged analysis. The Fleets’ appellate brief demonstrates mastery of English but a natural – and commendable – 
unfamiliarity with legalese. This might be a good time to associate in someone who speaks that tongue. 
2 Because this appeal comes to us after a demurrer was sustained, we assume the truth of the facts 
pleaded in the first amended complaint. (See Los Altos Golf & Country Club v. County of Santa Clara (2008) 165 
Cal.App.4th 198, 203.) 
2
everything was proceeding smoothly or (b) told the Fleets they had no knowledge of any 
loan modification application. Finally, in November 2011, BofA informed the Fleets 
they had been approved for a trial period plan under a Fannie Mae modification program. 
All they had to do, the Fleets were told, was to make three monthly payments of $957.43, 
starting on December 1, 2011. If they made the payments, then they would move to the 
next step – verification of financial hardship. If they passed that test, their loan would be 
permanently modified. 
The Fleets made the first two payments, for December 2011 and January 
2012. A BofA representative told them in December that BofA had received the 
December and January payments3 and that foreclosure proceedings had been suspended. 
Toward the end of January 2012, their house was sold at a trustee’s sale. 
Two days after the sale, a representative of the buyer showed up at the 
house with a notice to quit. The Fleets informed him that the house had significant 
structural problems, and he said he was going to rescind the sale. The Fleets continued to 
try to communicate with BofA regarding the property. A BofA representative left voice 
mail messages to the effect that BofA wanted to discuss a solution to the dispute, but 
otherwise it appeared that productive conversation between the Fleets and BofA and 
between the Fleets and the buyer had ceased. In light of this silence – which they 
interpreted to mean the buyer was trying to rescind the sale – the Fleets spent $15,000 to 
repair a broken sewer main, which was leaking sewage onto the front lawn. They were 
evicted in August 2012. 
In June 2012, the Fleets sued BofA, the trustee under their deed of trust, 
BofA officers and some of the employees who had been involved in handling their loan 
modification (the BofA defendants), and the buyer of the property and its representative. 
In August, the trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer with leave to amend as to some of 
3 The Fleets had sent BofA checks totaling $2,385 in December, which checks covered the trial 
period plan payments for December 2011, January 2012, and part of February 2012. 
3
the causes of action and without leave as to others. The Fleets filed an amended 
complaint in September. BofA’s demurrer to the first amended complaint was sustained 
without leave to amend as to the remaining causes of action – promissory estoppel, 
breach of contract, fraud, and accounting.4 Judgment was entered on December 17, 2012, 
dismissing all of the BofA defendants.5 
DISCUSSION 
4 
I. Standard of Review 
On appeal from a judgment of dismissal following the sustaining of a 
demurrer without leave to amend, we review the complaint to determine whether it 
alleges facts to state a cause of action under any legal theory, regardless of the labels 
attached to the causes of action in the complaint itself. (Kamen v. Lindly (2001) 94 
Cal.App.4th 197, 201.) 
As stated above, this case falls into line with a number of cases in which a 
homeowner has been promised a mortgage modification under a program designed to 
forestall foreclosure only to find the notice thereof posted on the door. The kindest 
interpretation to place on this scenario is lender incompetence – the left-hand loan 
modification department and the right-hand foreclosure department appear to be 
operating in total ignorance of each other. This is the most likely explanation, given the 
size of the institutions involved, but it is not the only one, and as the numbers of such 
cases grow, other less benign explanations are coming to more and more minds. (See 
4 The Fleets alleged three causes of action against the BofA defendants – intentional default, false 
information, and fraud – that the trial court correctly characterized as variations of a fraud claim. We have 
considered these three causes of action as stating a cause of action for promissory fraud against BofA and a cause of 
action for fraudulent misrepresentation against three individual BofA defendants. 
5 Although the minute order dismissed the case without prejudice, the judgment prepared by BofA’s 
counsel and signed by the court stated that the action was dismissed with prejudice. 
On its own motion, the court also ordered the dismissal of three unserved defendants. Since the 
complaint was only six months old at that point, this dismissal was clearly erroneous. (See Code Civ. Proc., § 
583.420.) No judgment was entered in favor of these defendants, which included the buyer of the home, Life 
Strategy Group, LLC, and its representative, Rudy Morales.
Corvello v. Wells Fargo Bank, NA (9th Cir. 2013) 728 F.3d 878, 885 (conc. opn. of 
Noonan, J.) 
One such case comes from our court – West v. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. 
(2013) 214 Cal.App.4th 780 (West). The homeowner, West, defaulted on her loan, and a 
notice to sell was recorded. The lender then informed her by letter that she had been 
approved for a trial period plan. The letter stated that if she complied with the terms of 
the agreement, the bank would “‘consider a permanent workout solution’” to her 
mortgage problems. (Id. at pp. 788-789.) West made all three payments required by the 
trial period plan and kept on making them even after the three months had expired. 
About eight months later, the lender told her that she did not qualify for a loan 
modification because she did not meet a formula developed by the Treasury Department. 
The lender offered to let her see its work, and if any calculations were wrong it would 
conduct a new evaluation. West duly notified the lender that the calculations were 
wrong, and, during a conference call, the lender asked her to resubmit her financial data 
and assured her that no foreclosure sale pending. Two days later, the home was sold at a 
trustee’s sale. (Id. at pp. 789-790.)6 
West appealed after the lender’s demurrer was sustained without leave to 
amend (West, supra, at p. 791), and we concluded she had stated causes of action for 
fraud, breach of contract, promissory estoppel, and unfair competition. (Id. at pp. 794, 
795, 796, 805, 806.) Other courts faced with similar fact patterns have come to the same 
conclusions. (See, e.g., Rufini v. CitiMortgage, Inc. (2014) 227 Cal.App.4th 299, 306 
and cases cited; Bushell v. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (2013) 220 Cal.App.4th 915 
[breach of contract/implied covenant of good faith, promissory estoppel, fraud]; Barroso 
v. Ocwen Loan Servicing, LLC (2012) 208 Cal.App.4th 1001, 1014-1015 [breach of 
6 Adding insult to injury, two days after the trustee’s sale the lender sent West a letter inviting her to 
contact it to work out a solution to her mortgage difficulty. About three months after that, West got a letter advising 
her of the availability of government-sponsored alternatives to foreclosure. (West, supra, 214 Cal.App.4th at pp. 
790-791.) 
5
contract, leave to amend to assert breach of covenant of good faith]; see also Corvello v. 
Wells Fargo Bank, NA, supra, 728 F.3d 878 [breach of contract, unfair debt collection].) 
II. Breach of Contract/Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing 
The Fleets alleged that BofA approved them for a trial period plan under 
the Fannie Mae modification program. BofA sent them a letter dated November 15, 
2011, confirming their entry into the program and setting out the “steps [they] need to 
take to permanently modify [their] mortgage, starting with making [their] first trial period 
payment.” The letter informed the Fleets that they could accept the offer by making 
“new monthly Trial Period Plan payments in place of [their] normal monthly mortgage 
payments.” The payments were identified as follows: “1st payment: $957.43 by 
12/01/11 [¶] 2nd payment: $957.43 by 01/01/12 [¶] 3rd payment: $957.43 by 02/01/12.” 
The letter further represented that “[a]fter all trial period payments are timely made and 
your financial hardship is verified, your mortgage will be permanently modified (italics 
added).” The letter warned the Fleets that they would continue to receive monthly 
statements based on their original mortgage, but they were to make trial period plan 
payments instead. The letter closed by congratulating the Fleets on being accepted to the 
Fannie Mae program and taking the first step toward permanently modifying their 
mortgage. 
The Fleets alleged that they sent $2,385 to BofA on November 29, 2011, by 
checks, to cover the payments for the trial period, which checks BofA cashed.7 The 
Fleets alleged that BofA removed the notice of foreclosure from real estate listings in 
mid-December 2011. 
The Fleets’ residence was sold to Life Strategy Group, LLC, at a trustee’s 
6 
sale on January 24, 2012, for $168,000. 
7 This amount was enough to cover the first two payments, with about $470 left over.
“In addition to the duties imposed on contracting parties by the express 
terms of their agreement, the law implies in every contract a covenant of good faith and 
fair dealing. [Citations.] The implied promise requires each contracting party to refrain 
from doing anything to injure the right of the other to receive the benefits of the 
agreement. [Citations.] The precise nature and extent of the duty imposed by such an 
implied promise will depend on the contractual purposes.” (Egan v. Mut. of Omaha Ins. 
Co. (1979) 24 Cal.3d 809, 818; see Locke v. Warner Bros.(1997) 57 Cal.App.4th 354, 
363.) 
According to the agreement alleged in the complaint and memorialized by 
the trial period plan letter, the Fleets were accepted into a program that would have led to 
a permanent modification of their mortgage. The first step of this program was timely 
payment of the three monthly amounts specified in the letter. They alleged they made 
two of the three payments, but before the third payment was due, BofA foreclosed, and 
the house was sold. 
Foreclosing and selling the house injured the right of the Fleets to receive 
the benefits of the agreement, which, according to the letter, guaranteed a modification of 
the Fleets’ mortgage if (1) they made timely payments according to the schedule set out 
in the letter and (2) their financial hardship was verified. They made two timely 
payments, or so they allege, but the sale of their house prevented further participation in 
the program. These allegations are sufficient to state a cause of action for breach of the 
covenant of good faith and fair dealing. 
The trial court reasoned that the trial period plan agreement was not a 
binding loan modification agreement, and the Fleets had no right to any guaranteed loan 
modification. Although the trial court was correct that the trial period plan agreement 
was not itself a loan modification agreement, it was mistaken about the Fleets’ rights. As 
we stated in West, supra, “‘Where a borrower qualified for a [federal Home Affordable 
Mortgage Program (HAMP)] loan modification, the modification process itself consisted 
7
of two stages. After determining a borrower was eligible, the servicer implemented a 
Trial Period Plan (TPP) under the new loan repayment terms it formulated using the 
waterfall method. The trial period under the TPP lasted three or more months, during 
which time the lender “must service the mortgage loan … in the same manner as it would 
service a loan in forbearance.” [Citation.] After the trial period, if the borrower complied 
with all terms of the TPP Agreement – including making all required payments and 
providing all required documentation – and if the borrower’s representations remained 
true and correct, the servicer had to offer a permanent modification. [Citation.]”’” 
(West, supra, 214 Cal.App.4th at p. 788, quoting Wigod v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (7th 
Cir. 2012) 673 F.3d 547, 577.) The point of the TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program), 
through which lenders obtained access to $50 billion in federal money, was to encourage 
lenders to restructure loans so that homeowners could avoid foreclosure. (West, supra, at 
pp. 786-787.) If they took TARP money, lenders had to follow Treasury Department 
guidelines for restructuring loans. They did not have the discretion to set their own 
criteria for handing out loan modifications. 
The Fleets were on the road to a loan modification when BofA caused their 
house to be sold. They alleged that they performed the terms of the TPP agreement until 
they were excused by BofA’s conduct. They have stated a cause of action for breach of 
contract against BofA.8 
8 The amended complaint named all of the BofA defendants as defendants in this cause of action. 
The Fleets have alleged facts showing an agreement only with BofA itself, so the demurrer was properly sustained 
without leave to amend as to the rest of the BofA defendants. 
8
9 
III. Fraud 
A. Promissory Fraud 
Civil Code section 1710 defines one species of deceit as “[a] promise made 
without any intention of performing it.” A cause of action for promissory fraud requires 
the plaintiff to allege that the promissor did not intend to perform at the time the promise 
was made, that the promise was intended to deceive and induce reliance, that it did 
induce reliance, and that this reliance resulted in damages. (Lazar v. Superior Court 
(1996) 12 Cal.4th 631, 637; Building Permit Consultants, Inc. v. Mazur (2004) 122 
Cal.App.4th 1400, 1414-1415.) 
Although the Fleets’ amended complaint spreads the fraud allegations over 
three causes of action and contains a great deal of extraneous information, it also alleges 
the requisite elements of promissory fraud. The Fleets allege that BofA never intended to 
modify their loan – notwithstanding the representations made in the TPP agreement and 
those made by the parade of BofA representatives who communicated with them – but 
rather intended to foreclose. The Fleets relied on the false promise by making payments 
under the TPP agreement and by refraining from taking other measures to save their 
home. They were damaged both by the loss of their home and by the loss of the money 
they expended jumping through hoops, running around in circles, and talking to walls in 
an effort to obtain the loan modification BofA had promised them, all the while unaware 
that BofA had no intention of modifying their loan. It may also turn out that the $15,000 
they spent to fix the sewer is part of their damages. This cause of action may or may not 
be provable; what it definitely is not is demurrable. 
B. Fraudulent Misrepresentation 
The Fleets alleged their fraud claims not only against BofA but also against 
the other BofA defendants, i.e., the trust company and several employees who handled 
the loan modification. The allegations of the complaint support the liability of those 
defendants who were agents of BofA and participants in the fraud. “‘“An agent or
employee is always liable for his own torts, whether his employer is liable or not.”‘ 
[Citations.] ‘In other words, when the agent commits a tort, such as … fraud …, then … 
the agent [is] subject to liability in a civil suit for such wrongful conduct.’ [Citations.]” 
“‘“[I]f a tortious act has been committed by an agent acting under authority of his 
principal, the fact that the principal thus becomes liable does not, of course, exonerate the 
agent from liability.” … The fact that the tortious act arises during the performance of a 
duty created by contract does not negate the agent’s liability.’ [Citation.]” (Shafer v. 
Berger, Kahn, Shafton, Moss, Figler, Simon & Gladstone (2003) 107 Cal.App.4th 54, 68; 
see Civ. Code, § 2343 [agent responsible as principal to third party when acts wrongful in 
their nature].) 
Read liberally, as we are required to do when evaluating a demurrer, the 
allegations of the amended complaint support a fraud cause of action against three of the 
other BofA defendants – Sophia Williams, Neal Smith, and Kimberly Garnham. All 
three are alleged to have assured the Fleets that the payments submitted per the TPP 
agreement had been received and credited and that the foreclosure proceedings had been 
suspended. Smith and Garnham are alleged to have told the Fleets to ignore a demand 
for payment letter from the lawyers representing the trustee and the bills from BofA for 
past due amounts. The Fleets have also alleged that these three defendants promoted the 
TPP agreement without any intention of honoring it. The Fleets have adequately alleged 
a fraud claim against these three defendants.9 
9 The Fleets also name Brian Moynihan – identified as BofA’s president and CEO – and Barbara 
Desoer – identified as president of BAC Home Loans – as defendants. The Fleets have alleged no facts showing 
that either of these defendants had personal knowledge of or involvement in any promises or misrepresentations 
made to them. 
10
11 
V. Promissory Estoppel 
The elements of a cause of action for promissory estoppel are (1) a promise, 
(2) the reasonable expectation by the promisor that the promise will induce reliance or 
forbearance, (3) actual reliance or forbearance, and (4) the avoidance of injustice by 
enforcing the promise. (Kajima/Ray Wilson v. Los Angeles County Metropolitan 
Transportation Authority (2000) 23 Cal.4th 305, 310.) A cause of action for promissory 
estoppel is a claim in equity that substitutes reliance on a promise for consideration “in 
the usual sense of something bargained for and given in exchange.” (Youngman v. 
Nevada Irrigation Dist. (1969) 70 Cal.2d 240, 249.) If actual consideration was given by 
the promisee, promissory estoppel does not apply. (Id. at p. 250; see Raedeke v. 
Gibraltar Sav. & Loan Assn. (1974) 10 Cal.3d 665, 672-673; Avidity Partners, LLC v. 
State of California (2013) 221 Cal.App.4th 1180, 1209; Fontenot v. Wells Fargo Bank, 
N.A. (2011) 198 Cal.App.4th 256, 275.) 
Although a cause of action for promissory estoppel is inconsistent with a 
cause of action for breach of contract based on the same facts (see, e.g. Money Store 
Investment Corp. v. Southern Cal. Bank (2002) 98 Cal.App.4th 722, 732), “[w]hen a 
pleader is in doubt about what actually occurred or what can be established by the 
evidence, the modern practice allows that party to plead in the alternative and make 
inconsistent allegations.” (Mendoza v. Continental Sales Co. (2006) 140 Cal.App.4th 
“‘Directors or officers of a corporation do not incur personal liability for torts of the corporation 
merely by reason of their official position, unless they participate in the wrong or authorize or direct that it be done. 
They may be liable, under the rules of tort and agency, for tortious acts committed on behalf of the corporation. 
[Citations.]’ . . . ‘[I]t is well settled that corporate directors cannot be held vicariously liable for the corporation’s 
torts in which they do not participate. Their liability, if any, stems from their own tortious conduct, not from their 
status as directors or officers of the enterprise. [Citation.] “[A]n officer or director will not be liable for torts in 
which he does not personally participate, of which he has no knowledge, or to which he has not consented. . . . 
While the corporation itself may be liable for such acts, the individual officer or director will be immune unless he 
authorizes, directs, or in some meaningful sense actively participates in the wrongful conduct.’” [Citation.]’” 
(PMC, Inc. v. Kadisha (2000) 78 Cal.App.4th 1368, 1379.) Accordingly, the demurrer to the fraud cause of action 
was properly sustained as to these two defendants. 
Likewise, the Fleets have not alleged any facts showing false promises or misrepresentations made 
to them by the trustee, Recon Trust Company. Accordingly, the demurrer to this cause of action as to this defendant 
was properly sustained.
1395, 1402; see also Crowley v. Katleman (1994) 8 Cal.4th 666, 690.) The Fleets have 
alleged facts that could support a cause of action for promissory estoppel against BofA in 
the event that they cannot establish a cause of action for breach of contract. Whether 
they can prove this cause of action awaits further development. 
V. Accounting 
A cause of action for accounting requires a showing of a relationship 
between the plaintiff and the defendant, such a fiduciary relationship, that requires an 
accounting or a showing that the accounts are so complicated they cannot be determined 
through an ordinary action at law. (Brea v. McGlashan (1934) 3 Cal.App.2d 454, 460; 5 
Witkin, Cal. Procedure (5th ed. 2008) Pleading, § 819, p. 236.) “An action for 
accounting is not available where the plaintiff alleges the right to recover a sum certain or 
a sum that can be made certain by calculation. [Citation.]” (Teselle v. McLoughlin 
(2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 156, 179.) 
The exact nature of the Fleets’ accounting claim is obscure, but it appears 
to have two parts. First, the Fleets claimed BofA misapplied the loan payments they 
made from March 2010 through November 2011. Second, the Fleets alleged that there 
were “surplus” funds left over from the trustee’s sale, although they did not allege that 
they were supposed to receive these funds. 
The trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer to this cause of action on the 
ground that the issue of the surplus funds from the trustee’s sale had been resolved in a 
different case by a different judge. As part of its request for judicial notice, BofA filed a 
copy of the minute order in the other case, which denied the Fleets’ motion for relief 
from an order to deposit surplus funds. It appears, then, that the trial court correctly ruled 
as to this part of the claim. 
As to the part dealing with how the loan payments were applied before 
foreclosure, it appears this issue can be folded into the fraud and breach of contract 
causes of action. If the Fleets are maintaining that they overpaid BofA – either under the 
12
TPP agreement or because of the fraudulent promise – the overpayment will constitute an 
element of their damages. If something else turns up in discovery, they can request leave 
to amend. As of now, however, they do not appear to have alleged the necessary 
elements of a separate cause of action for accounting. 
VI. Leave to Amend 
The Fleets correctly point out that leave to amend is liberally granted after a 
demurrer is sustained. But they fail to acknowledge that, on appeal, the appellant has the 
burden of showing how the pleading can be amended to state a cause of action. 
(Goodman v. Kennedy (1976) 18 Cal.3d 335, 349.) They have not carried this burden. 
They have not explained to us how they could amend the causes of action that were 
properly dismissed without leave to amend to correct their deficiencies. Thus they have 
provided us with no basis by which we can conclude that the trial court abused its 
discretion when it denied leave to amend. (See New Plumbing Contractors, Inc. v. 
Nationwide Mutual Ins. Co. (1992) 7 Cal.App.4th 1088, 1098.) 
We strongly advise the Fleets to engage counsel. Appellate review of the 
sustaining of a demurrer tilts heavily in favor of permitting a plaintiff to proceed on the 
merits, but that favorable atmosphere rapidly evanesces as the case proceeds. Obtaining 
counsel will help the Fleets to navigate the shoals ahead of them and give them a chance 
to litigate on equal terms with BofA. 
DISPOSITION 
The judgment is reversed. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause 
of action for fraud is reversed as to BofA and respondents Williams, Smith, and Garnham 
and affirmed as to respondents Recon Trust, Moynihan, and Desoer. The order 
sustaining the demurrer to the breach of contract cause of action is reversed as to BofA 
and affirmed as to the other respondents. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause 
of action for promissory estoppel is reversed as to BofA and is affirmed as to the other 
13
respondents. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause of action for accounting 
without leave to amend and the dismissal of this cause of action is affirmed. Appellants 
will recover their costs on appeal. 
14 
BEDSWORTH, J. 
WE CONCUR: 
RYLAARSDAM, ACTING P. J. 
FYBEL, J.
Filed 9/23/14 
CERTIFIED FOR PUBLICATION 
IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA 
FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT 
DIVISION THREE 
ROBERT C. FLEET et al., 
Plaintiffs and Appellants, 
v. 
BANK OF AMERICA N.A. et al., 
Defendants and Respondents. 
G050049 
(Super. Ct. No. CIVRS1204737) 
ORDER GRANTING REQUEST 
FOR PUBLICATION 
The National Association of Consumer Advocates, The Sturdevant Law 
Firm and Appellants have requested that our opinion in this matter, filed August 25, 
2014, be certified for publication. After reviewing the request, we have concluded the 
case indeed meets the requirements for publication. Pursuant to California Rules of 
Court, rules 8.1105(b), 8.1105(c)(2)(4) and (6), the request is GRANTED. 
The opinion is ordered published in the Official Reports. 
BEDSWORTH, J. 
I CONCUR: 
FYBEL, J.
2

More Related Content

What's hot

Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02
Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02
Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02jamesmaredmond
 
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuit
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud LawsuitFrank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuit
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuitfrankyansacramentofraud
 
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13Matthew Cox
 
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarke
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarkeB178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarke
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarkejamesmaredmond
 
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlienjamesmaredmond
 
James Walters Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93
James Walters   Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93James Walters   Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93
James Walters Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93jamesmaredmond
 
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud sacramentofraudnews
 
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412cdukelow
 
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et al
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et alTrial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et al
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et alSeth Row
 
Fld lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110
Fld   lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110Fld   lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110
Fld lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110cdukelow
 
Motionto remand
Motionto remandMotionto remand
Motionto remandmzamoralaw
 
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...Angela Kaaihue
 

What's hot (20)

10000001216
1000000121610000001216
10000001216
 
10000001213
1000000121310000001213
10000001213
 
Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02
Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02
Geraldine Redmond TRO on Gaggero 11.27.02
 
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuit
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud LawsuitFrank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuit
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Lawsuit
 
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13
UTA - Rossberg and Lueras - TSC 11-19-13
 
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarke
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarkeB178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarke
B178942 sulphur v knapp petersen clarke
 
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien
51.sulphur mtgrespmotavoidlien
 
James Walters Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93
James Walters   Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93James Walters   Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93
James Walters Kellogg & Andelson - declaration 8.4.93
 
Moss v Kroner
Moss v KronerMoss v Kroner
Moss v Kroner
 
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud
Frank Yan Sacramento Mortgage Fraud
 
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412
Adm 1 - addendum no #1 - 412
 
B241675 opinion
B241675 opinionB241675 opinion
B241675 opinion
 
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et al
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et alTrial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et al
Trial Order Ash Grove v. Travelers et al
 
PWW - CV
PWW - CVPWW - CV
PWW - CV
 
B204839
B204839B204839
B204839
 
Fld lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110
Fld   lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110Fld   lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110
Fld lead-based paint and lead-based paint hazards - 1110
 
10000001214
1000000121410000001214
10000001214
 
10000001211
1000000121110000001211
10000001211
 
Motionto remand
Motionto remandMotionto remand
Motionto remand
 
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...
Angela Kaaihue, Motion in Opposition to NECA's Summary Judgement- Hearing Jul...
 

Similar to Fleet v. Bank of America case from California Court of Appeal

Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find law
Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find lawMiles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find law
Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find lawJustin Gluesing
 
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miami
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In MiamiRK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miami
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miamirkcenters
 
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docx
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docxThis argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docx
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docxchristalgrieg
 
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase ForeclosureFORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosurelauren tratar
 
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase ForeclosureFORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosurelauren tratar
 
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.C John Cotton
 
CDLA Case law Update February 2012
CDLA Case law Update February 2012CDLA Case law Update February 2012
CDLA Case law Update February 2012Bo Donegan, CPA
 
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape The Ibanez Case And Beyond
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape  The Ibanez Case And BeyondAn Evolving Foreclosure Landscape  The Ibanez Case And Beyond
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape The Ibanez Case And BeyondNat Rice
 
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdf
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdfAlicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdf
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdfElleAlamo
 
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013Paul Porvaznik
 
Revival of Dormant Judgments in Illinois
Revival of Dormant Judgments in IllinoisRevival of Dormant Judgments in Illinois
Revival of Dormant Judgments in IllinoisMichael J. Gilmartin
 
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650Heath Global - 492_B.R._650
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650James Glucksman
 
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...Umesh Heendeniya
 
Express working capital llc v Starving Students Inc
Express working capital llc v Starving Students IncExpress working capital llc v Starving Students Inc
Express working capital llc v Starving Students IncM P
 
Holden Cases Against State Dismissed
Holden Cases Against State DismissedHolden Cases Against State Dismissed
Holden Cases Against State DismissedAbdul-Hakim Shabazz
 
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767jamesmaredmond
 
Steele Remand Order 11th Circuit
Steele Remand Order 11th CircuitSteele Remand Order 11th Circuit
Steele Remand Order 11th Circuitmzamoralaw
 
11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit
11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit
11-60000 In re Perle 9th CircuitLeslie Akins
 

Similar to Fleet v. Bank of America case from California Court of Appeal (20)

Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find law
Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find lawMiles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find law
Miles v. deutsche bank national trust company | find law
 
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miami
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In MiamiRK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miami
RK Associates, Raanan Katz Were Alleged In Unlawful Ejectment In Miami
 
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docx
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docxThis argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docx
This argument is important in yellow color to illustrate the first.docx
 
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase ForeclosureFORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
 
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase ForeclosureFORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
FORECLOSURE Response to JP Morgan Chase Foreclosure
 
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.
Herrer v. Gilligan's LLC et. al.
 
CDLA Case law Update February 2012
CDLA Case law Update February 2012CDLA Case law Update February 2012
CDLA Case law Update February 2012
 
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape The Ibanez Case And Beyond
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape  The Ibanez Case And BeyondAn Evolving Foreclosure Landscape  The Ibanez Case And Beyond
An Evolving Foreclosure Landscape The Ibanez Case And Beyond
 
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdf
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdfAlicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdf
Alicias, Jr. v. Baclig, A.C. No. 9919, July 19, 2017, 813 PHIL 893-900.pdf
 
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013
Commercial%20Banking,%20Collections,%20and%20Bankruptcy%20December%202013
 
Revival of Dormant Judgments in Illinois
Revival of Dormant Judgments in IllinoisRevival of Dormant Judgments in Illinois
Revival of Dormant Judgments in Illinois
 
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650Heath Global - 492_B.R._650
Heath Global - 492_B.R._650
 
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...
Libor Lawsuit - In Re _ LIBOR Antitrust Litigation vs. Bank of America, JPMor...
 
Express working capital llc v Starving Students Inc
Express working capital llc v Starving Students IncExpress working capital llc v Starving Students Inc
Express working capital llc v Starving Students Inc
 
Holden Cases Against State Dismissed
Holden Cases Against State DismissedHolden Cases Against State Dismissed
Holden Cases Against State Dismissed
 
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767
Sulphur Moutain vs. John Redmond, et al - B238767
 
10000001200
1000000120010000001200
10000001200
 
Steele Remand Order 11th Circuit
Steele Remand Order 11th CircuitSteele Remand Order 11th Circuit
Steele Remand Order 11th Circuit
 
Defendants Closing Argument Brief
Defendants Closing Argument BriefDefendants Closing Argument Brief
Defendants Closing Argument Brief
 
11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit
11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit
11-60000 In re Perle 9th Circuit
 

More from LegalDocsPro

Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...
Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...
Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District Court
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District CourtSample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District Court
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District CourtLegalDocsPro
 
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample notice of change of address for California civil case
Sample notice of change of address for California civil caseSample notice of change of address for California civil case
Sample notice of change of address for California civil caseLegalDocsPro
 
Sample notice of change of address for California divorce
Sample notice of change of address for California divorceSample notice of change of address for California divorce
Sample notice of change of address for California divorceLegalDocsPro
 
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in California
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in CaliforniaSample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in California
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in CaliforniaLegalDocsPro
 
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California LegalDocsPro
 
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District Court
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District CourtSample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District Court
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District CourtLegalDocsPro
 
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in California
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in CaliforniaSample complaint for rescission of contract in California
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in CaliforniaLegalDocsPro
 
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District Court
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District CourtSample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District Court
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District CourtLegalDocsPro
 
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...LegalDocsPro
 
Sample demurrer for another action pending in California
Sample demurrer for another action pending in CaliforniaSample demurrer for another action pending in California
Sample demurrer for another action pending in CaliforniaLegalDocsPro
 
California discovery document collection for sale
California discovery document collection for saleCalifornia discovery document collection for sale
California discovery document collection for saleLegalDocsPro
 
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for sale
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for saleCalifornia unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for sale
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for saleLegalDocsPro
 
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in California
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in CaliforniaSample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in California
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in CaliforniaLegalDocsPro
 
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorce
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorceSample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorce
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorceLegalDocsPro
 
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in California
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in CaliforniaSample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in California
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in CaliforniaLegalDocsPro
 

More from LegalDocsPro (20)

Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...
Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...
Sample motion for OSC for contempt for violations of the Bankruptcy Discharge...
 
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District Court
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District CourtSample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District Court
Sample opposition to motion for new trial in United States District Court
 
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...
Sample ex parte application for TRO and preliminary injunction in United Stat...
 
Sample notice of change of address for California civil case
Sample notice of change of address for California civil caseSample notice of change of address for California civil case
Sample notice of change of address for California civil case
 
Sample notice of change of address for California divorce
Sample notice of change of address for California divorceSample notice of change of address for California divorce
Sample notice of change of address for California divorce
 
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in California
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in CaliforniaSample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in California
Sample stipulation and order to appoint discovery referee in California
 
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion for judgment on the pleadings i...
 
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California
Sample meet and confer declaration for motion to strike in California
 
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District Court
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District CourtSample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District Court
Sample motion to vacate default under Rule 55(c) in United States District Court
 
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...
Sample request for entry of default under rule 55(a) in United States Distric...
 
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in California
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in CaliforniaSample complaint for rescission of contract in California
Sample complaint for rescission of contract in California
 
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...
Sample opposition to request for domestic violence restraining order in Calif...
 
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District Court
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District CourtSample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District Court
Sample motion for substitution of plaintiff in United States District Court
 
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...
Sample plaintiffs opposition to motion for judgment on the pleadings in Calif...
 
Sample demurrer for another action pending in California
Sample demurrer for another action pending in CaliforniaSample demurrer for another action pending in California
Sample demurrer for another action pending in California
 
California discovery document collection for sale
California discovery document collection for saleCalifornia discovery document collection for sale
California discovery document collection for sale
 
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for sale
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for saleCalifornia unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for sale
California unlawful detainer (eviction) document collection for sale
 
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in California
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in CaliforniaSample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in California
Sample ex parte application for osc for civil contempt in California
 
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorce
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorceSample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorce
Sample motion for vocational evaluation in California divorce
 
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in California
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in CaliforniaSample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in California
Sample opposition to order to show cause for civil contempt in California
 

Recently uploaded

Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm
Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmmEssentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm
Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm2020000445musaib
 
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxAudience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxMollyBrown86
 
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书Fs Las
 
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptx
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptxPPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptx
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptxRRR Chambers
 
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual service
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual serviceCALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual service
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual serviceanilsa9823
 
如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书
 如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书 如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书Sir Lt
 
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx labour
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx   labourTHE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx   labour
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx labourBhavikaGholap1
 
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书E LSS
 
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhaiShashankKumar441258
 
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .ppt
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .pptChp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .ppt
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .pptzainabbkhaleeq123
 
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULE
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULELITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULE
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULEsreeramsaipranitha
 
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in India
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in IndiaLegal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in India
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in IndiaFinlaw Consultancy Pvt Ltd
 
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusion
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusionIntroduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusion
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusionAnuragMishra811030
 
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptx
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptxHuman Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptx
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptxfilippoluciani9
 
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptx
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptxMunicipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptx
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptxSHIVAMGUPTA671167
 
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction Fails
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction FailsCAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction Fails
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction FailsAurora Consulting
 
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptx
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptxIBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptx
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptxRRR Chambers
 

Recently uploaded (20)

Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm
Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmmEssentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm
Essentials of a Valid Transfer.pptxmmmmmm
 
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxAudience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Audience profile - SF.pptxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
 
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(USF文凭证书)美国旧金山大学毕业证学位证书
 
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptx
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptxPPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptx
PPT- Voluntary Liquidation (Under section 59).pptx
 
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual service
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual serviceCALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual service
CALL ON ➥8923113531 🔝Call Girls Singar Nagar Lucknow best sexual service
 
如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书
 如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书 如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书
如何办理(MSU文凭证书)密歇根州立大学毕业证学位证书
 
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx labour
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx   labourTHE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx   labour
THE FACTORIES ACT,1948 (2).pptx labour
 
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书
一比一原版牛津布鲁克斯大学毕业证学位证书
 
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 6 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 6 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 6 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 6 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
 
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai
6th sem cpc notes for 6th semester students samjhe. Padhlo bhai
 
Sensual Moments: +91 9999965857 Independent Call Girls Vasundhara Delhi {{ Mo...
Sensual Moments: +91 9999965857 Independent Call Girls Vasundhara Delhi {{ Mo...Sensual Moments: +91 9999965857 Independent Call Girls Vasundhara Delhi {{ Mo...
Sensual Moments: +91 9999965857 Independent Call Girls Vasundhara Delhi {{ Mo...
 
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .ppt
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .pptChp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .ppt
Chp 1- Contract and its kinds-business law .ppt
 
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULE
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULELITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULE
LITERAL RULE OF INTERPRETATION - PRIMARY RULE
 
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in India
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in IndiaLegal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in India
Legal Risks and Compliance Considerations for Cryptocurrency Exchanges in India
 
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusion
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusionIntroduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusion
Introduction to Corruption, definition, types, impact and conclusion
 
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 7 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 7 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 7 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
Russian Call Girls Rohini Sector 7 💓 Delhi 9999965857 @Sabina Modi VVIP MODEL...
 
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptx
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptxHuman Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptx
Human Rights_FilippoLuciani diritti umani.pptx
 
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptx
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptxMunicipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptx
Municipal-Council-Ratlam-vs-Vardi-Chand-A-Landmark-Writ-Case.pptx
 
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction Fails
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction FailsCAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction Fails
CAFC Chronicles: Costly Tales of Claim Construction Fails
 
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptx
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptxIBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptx
IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code 2016)-IOD - PPT.pptx
 

Fleet v. Bank of America case from California Court of Appeal

  • 1. Filed 8/25/14; pub. order 9/23/14 (see end of opn.) IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT DIVISION THREE ROBERT C. FLEET et al., Plaintiffs and Appellants, v. BANK OF AMERICA N.A. et al., Defendants and Respondents. G050049 (Super. Ct. No. CIVRS1204737) O P I N I O N Appeal from a judgment of the Superior Court of San Bernardino County, Joseph R. Brisco, Judge. Affirmed in part and reversed in part. Robert C. Fleet and Alina O. Szpak-Fleet, in pro. per., for Plaintiffs and Appellants. McGuireWoods, Leslie M. Werlin and Blake S. Olson for Defendants and Respondents.
  • 2. INTRODUCTION This appeal represents another example of what is becoming a well established and predictable pattern. A homeowner in distress because of the meltdown of the financial markets applies to a lender for mortgage relief. The lender approves the homeowner’s participation in a government-funded program meant to lower mortgage payments and avoid foreclosure. The homeowner tries to comply with the terms of the mortgage modification program. He or she contacts the lender to make sure everything is proceeding according to plan and either receives assurances that it is or is passed from person to person, each of whom professes to know nothing about the loan in question or its modification. Sometimes both. Then the foreclosure notice is posted on the door, and the house is sold. Robert and Alina Fleet, appellants in this case, alleged just such a pattern in their first amended complaint against respondent Bank of America (BofA). Because they are representing themselves, their complaint is not in the form to which courts are accustomed.1 Nevertheless, allegations of viable causes of action can be sufficiently discerned to defeat a demurrer. We therefore reverse the judgment dismissing their case against BofA and return them to the trial court for further proceedings. FACTS2 The Fleets owned a house in Montclair. They obtained a mortgage loan from BofA in 2004. They applied to have their loan modified in 2009 under the Making Homes Affordable Act. Then began month after month of telephone conversations with and letters to various BofA-related personnel, who either (a) assured the Fleets that 1 The trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer to the Fleets’ original complaint and told the Fleets they had to plead with more specificity. The Fleets evidently took this admonition to mean they had to try their case in their amended complaint. The result is a complex and fact-intensive document that requires concentration and dogged analysis. The Fleets’ appellate brief demonstrates mastery of English but a natural – and commendable – unfamiliarity with legalese. This might be a good time to associate in someone who speaks that tongue. 2 Because this appeal comes to us after a demurrer was sustained, we assume the truth of the facts pleaded in the first amended complaint. (See Los Altos Golf & Country Club v. County of Santa Clara (2008) 165 Cal.App.4th 198, 203.) 2
  • 3. everything was proceeding smoothly or (b) told the Fleets they had no knowledge of any loan modification application. Finally, in November 2011, BofA informed the Fleets they had been approved for a trial period plan under a Fannie Mae modification program. All they had to do, the Fleets were told, was to make three monthly payments of $957.43, starting on December 1, 2011. If they made the payments, then they would move to the next step – verification of financial hardship. If they passed that test, their loan would be permanently modified. The Fleets made the first two payments, for December 2011 and January 2012. A BofA representative told them in December that BofA had received the December and January payments3 and that foreclosure proceedings had been suspended. Toward the end of January 2012, their house was sold at a trustee’s sale. Two days after the sale, a representative of the buyer showed up at the house with a notice to quit. The Fleets informed him that the house had significant structural problems, and he said he was going to rescind the sale. The Fleets continued to try to communicate with BofA regarding the property. A BofA representative left voice mail messages to the effect that BofA wanted to discuss a solution to the dispute, but otherwise it appeared that productive conversation between the Fleets and BofA and between the Fleets and the buyer had ceased. In light of this silence – which they interpreted to mean the buyer was trying to rescind the sale – the Fleets spent $15,000 to repair a broken sewer main, which was leaking sewage onto the front lawn. They were evicted in August 2012. In June 2012, the Fleets sued BofA, the trustee under their deed of trust, BofA officers and some of the employees who had been involved in handling their loan modification (the BofA defendants), and the buyer of the property and its representative. In August, the trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer with leave to amend as to some of 3 The Fleets had sent BofA checks totaling $2,385 in December, which checks covered the trial period plan payments for December 2011, January 2012, and part of February 2012. 3
  • 4. the causes of action and without leave as to others. The Fleets filed an amended complaint in September. BofA’s demurrer to the first amended complaint was sustained without leave to amend as to the remaining causes of action – promissory estoppel, breach of contract, fraud, and accounting.4 Judgment was entered on December 17, 2012, dismissing all of the BofA defendants.5 DISCUSSION 4 I. Standard of Review On appeal from a judgment of dismissal following the sustaining of a demurrer without leave to amend, we review the complaint to determine whether it alleges facts to state a cause of action under any legal theory, regardless of the labels attached to the causes of action in the complaint itself. (Kamen v. Lindly (2001) 94 Cal.App.4th 197, 201.) As stated above, this case falls into line with a number of cases in which a homeowner has been promised a mortgage modification under a program designed to forestall foreclosure only to find the notice thereof posted on the door. The kindest interpretation to place on this scenario is lender incompetence – the left-hand loan modification department and the right-hand foreclosure department appear to be operating in total ignorance of each other. This is the most likely explanation, given the size of the institutions involved, but it is not the only one, and as the numbers of such cases grow, other less benign explanations are coming to more and more minds. (See 4 The Fleets alleged three causes of action against the BofA defendants – intentional default, false information, and fraud – that the trial court correctly characterized as variations of a fraud claim. We have considered these three causes of action as stating a cause of action for promissory fraud against BofA and a cause of action for fraudulent misrepresentation against three individual BofA defendants. 5 Although the minute order dismissed the case without prejudice, the judgment prepared by BofA’s counsel and signed by the court stated that the action was dismissed with prejudice. On its own motion, the court also ordered the dismissal of three unserved defendants. Since the complaint was only six months old at that point, this dismissal was clearly erroneous. (See Code Civ. Proc., § 583.420.) No judgment was entered in favor of these defendants, which included the buyer of the home, Life Strategy Group, LLC, and its representative, Rudy Morales.
  • 5. Corvello v. Wells Fargo Bank, NA (9th Cir. 2013) 728 F.3d 878, 885 (conc. opn. of Noonan, J.) One such case comes from our court – West v. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (2013) 214 Cal.App.4th 780 (West). The homeowner, West, defaulted on her loan, and a notice to sell was recorded. The lender then informed her by letter that she had been approved for a trial period plan. The letter stated that if she complied with the terms of the agreement, the bank would “‘consider a permanent workout solution’” to her mortgage problems. (Id. at pp. 788-789.) West made all three payments required by the trial period plan and kept on making them even after the three months had expired. About eight months later, the lender told her that she did not qualify for a loan modification because she did not meet a formula developed by the Treasury Department. The lender offered to let her see its work, and if any calculations were wrong it would conduct a new evaluation. West duly notified the lender that the calculations were wrong, and, during a conference call, the lender asked her to resubmit her financial data and assured her that no foreclosure sale pending. Two days later, the home was sold at a trustee’s sale. (Id. at pp. 789-790.)6 West appealed after the lender’s demurrer was sustained without leave to amend (West, supra, at p. 791), and we concluded she had stated causes of action for fraud, breach of contract, promissory estoppel, and unfair competition. (Id. at pp. 794, 795, 796, 805, 806.) Other courts faced with similar fact patterns have come to the same conclusions. (See, e.g., Rufini v. CitiMortgage, Inc. (2014) 227 Cal.App.4th 299, 306 and cases cited; Bushell v. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (2013) 220 Cal.App.4th 915 [breach of contract/implied covenant of good faith, promissory estoppel, fraud]; Barroso v. Ocwen Loan Servicing, LLC (2012) 208 Cal.App.4th 1001, 1014-1015 [breach of 6 Adding insult to injury, two days after the trustee’s sale the lender sent West a letter inviting her to contact it to work out a solution to her mortgage difficulty. About three months after that, West got a letter advising her of the availability of government-sponsored alternatives to foreclosure. (West, supra, 214 Cal.App.4th at pp. 790-791.) 5
  • 6. contract, leave to amend to assert breach of covenant of good faith]; see also Corvello v. Wells Fargo Bank, NA, supra, 728 F.3d 878 [breach of contract, unfair debt collection].) II. Breach of Contract/Covenant of Good Faith and Fair Dealing The Fleets alleged that BofA approved them for a trial period plan under the Fannie Mae modification program. BofA sent them a letter dated November 15, 2011, confirming their entry into the program and setting out the “steps [they] need to take to permanently modify [their] mortgage, starting with making [their] first trial period payment.” The letter informed the Fleets that they could accept the offer by making “new monthly Trial Period Plan payments in place of [their] normal monthly mortgage payments.” The payments were identified as follows: “1st payment: $957.43 by 12/01/11 [¶] 2nd payment: $957.43 by 01/01/12 [¶] 3rd payment: $957.43 by 02/01/12.” The letter further represented that “[a]fter all trial period payments are timely made and your financial hardship is verified, your mortgage will be permanently modified (italics added).” The letter warned the Fleets that they would continue to receive monthly statements based on their original mortgage, but they were to make trial period plan payments instead. The letter closed by congratulating the Fleets on being accepted to the Fannie Mae program and taking the first step toward permanently modifying their mortgage. The Fleets alleged that they sent $2,385 to BofA on November 29, 2011, by checks, to cover the payments for the trial period, which checks BofA cashed.7 The Fleets alleged that BofA removed the notice of foreclosure from real estate listings in mid-December 2011. The Fleets’ residence was sold to Life Strategy Group, LLC, at a trustee’s 6 sale on January 24, 2012, for $168,000. 7 This amount was enough to cover the first two payments, with about $470 left over.
  • 7. “In addition to the duties imposed on contracting parties by the express terms of their agreement, the law implies in every contract a covenant of good faith and fair dealing. [Citations.] The implied promise requires each contracting party to refrain from doing anything to injure the right of the other to receive the benefits of the agreement. [Citations.] The precise nature and extent of the duty imposed by such an implied promise will depend on the contractual purposes.” (Egan v. Mut. of Omaha Ins. Co. (1979) 24 Cal.3d 809, 818; see Locke v. Warner Bros.(1997) 57 Cal.App.4th 354, 363.) According to the agreement alleged in the complaint and memorialized by the trial period plan letter, the Fleets were accepted into a program that would have led to a permanent modification of their mortgage. The first step of this program was timely payment of the three monthly amounts specified in the letter. They alleged they made two of the three payments, but before the third payment was due, BofA foreclosed, and the house was sold. Foreclosing and selling the house injured the right of the Fleets to receive the benefits of the agreement, which, according to the letter, guaranteed a modification of the Fleets’ mortgage if (1) they made timely payments according to the schedule set out in the letter and (2) their financial hardship was verified. They made two timely payments, or so they allege, but the sale of their house prevented further participation in the program. These allegations are sufficient to state a cause of action for breach of the covenant of good faith and fair dealing. The trial court reasoned that the trial period plan agreement was not a binding loan modification agreement, and the Fleets had no right to any guaranteed loan modification. Although the trial court was correct that the trial period plan agreement was not itself a loan modification agreement, it was mistaken about the Fleets’ rights. As we stated in West, supra, “‘Where a borrower qualified for a [federal Home Affordable Mortgage Program (HAMP)] loan modification, the modification process itself consisted 7
  • 8. of two stages. After determining a borrower was eligible, the servicer implemented a Trial Period Plan (TPP) under the new loan repayment terms it formulated using the waterfall method. The trial period under the TPP lasted three or more months, during which time the lender “must service the mortgage loan … in the same manner as it would service a loan in forbearance.” [Citation.] After the trial period, if the borrower complied with all terms of the TPP Agreement – including making all required payments and providing all required documentation – and if the borrower’s representations remained true and correct, the servicer had to offer a permanent modification. [Citation.]”’” (West, supra, 214 Cal.App.4th at p. 788, quoting Wigod v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (7th Cir. 2012) 673 F.3d 547, 577.) The point of the TARP (Troubled Asset Relief Program), through which lenders obtained access to $50 billion in federal money, was to encourage lenders to restructure loans so that homeowners could avoid foreclosure. (West, supra, at pp. 786-787.) If they took TARP money, lenders had to follow Treasury Department guidelines for restructuring loans. They did not have the discretion to set their own criteria for handing out loan modifications. The Fleets were on the road to a loan modification when BofA caused their house to be sold. They alleged that they performed the terms of the TPP agreement until they were excused by BofA’s conduct. They have stated a cause of action for breach of contract against BofA.8 8 The amended complaint named all of the BofA defendants as defendants in this cause of action. The Fleets have alleged facts showing an agreement only with BofA itself, so the demurrer was properly sustained without leave to amend as to the rest of the BofA defendants. 8
  • 9. 9 III. Fraud A. Promissory Fraud Civil Code section 1710 defines one species of deceit as “[a] promise made without any intention of performing it.” A cause of action for promissory fraud requires the plaintiff to allege that the promissor did not intend to perform at the time the promise was made, that the promise was intended to deceive and induce reliance, that it did induce reliance, and that this reliance resulted in damages. (Lazar v. Superior Court (1996) 12 Cal.4th 631, 637; Building Permit Consultants, Inc. v. Mazur (2004) 122 Cal.App.4th 1400, 1414-1415.) Although the Fleets’ amended complaint spreads the fraud allegations over three causes of action and contains a great deal of extraneous information, it also alleges the requisite elements of promissory fraud. The Fleets allege that BofA never intended to modify their loan – notwithstanding the representations made in the TPP agreement and those made by the parade of BofA representatives who communicated with them – but rather intended to foreclose. The Fleets relied on the false promise by making payments under the TPP agreement and by refraining from taking other measures to save their home. They were damaged both by the loss of their home and by the loss of the money they expended jumping through hoops, running around in circles, and talking to walls in an effort to obtain the loan modification BofA had promised them, all the while unaware that BofA had no intention of modifying their loan. It may also turn out that the $15,000 they spent to fix the sewer is part of their damages. This cause of action may or may not be provable; what it definitely is not is demurrable. B. Fraudulent Misrepresentation The Fleets alleged their fraud claims not only against BofA but also against the other BofA defendants, i.e., the trust company and several employees who handled the loan modification. The allegations of the complaint support the liability of those defendants who were agents of BofA and participants in the fraud. “‘“An agent or
  • 10. employee is always liable for his own torts, whether his employer is liable or not.”‘ [Citations.] ‘In other words, when the agent commits a tort, such as … fraud …, then … the agent [is] subject to liability in a civil suit for such wrongful conduct.’ [Citations.]” “‘“[I]f a tortious act has been committed by an agent acting under authority of his principal, the fact that the principal thus becomes liable does not, of course, exonerate the agent from liability.” … The fact that the tortious act arises during the performance of a duty created by contract does not negate the agent’s liability.’ [Citation.]” (Shafer v. Berger, Kahn, Shafton, Moss, Figler, Simon & Gladstone (2003) 107 Cal.App.4th 54, 68; see Civ. Code, § 2343 [agent responsible as principal to third party when acts wrongful in their nature].) Read liberally, as we are required to do when evaluating a demurrer, the allegations of the amended complaint support a fraud cause of action against three of the other BofA defendants – Sophia Williams, Neal Smith, and Kimberly Garnham. All three are alleged to have assured the Fleets that the payments submitted per the TPP agreement had been received and credited and that the foreclosure proceedings had been suspended. Smith and Garnham are alleged to have told the Fleets to ignore a demand for payment letter from the lawyers representing the trustee and the bills from BofA for past due amounts. The Fleets have also alleged that these three defendants promoted the TPP agreement without any intention of honoring it. The Fleets have adequately alleged a fraud claim against these three defendants.9 9 The Fleets also name Brian Moynihan – identified as BofA’s president and CEO – and Barbara Desoer – identified as president of BAC Home Loans – as defendants. The Fleets have alleged no facts showing that either of these defendants had personal knowledge of or involvement in any promises or misrepresentations made to them. 10
  • 11. 11 V. Promissory Estoppel The elements of a cause of action for promissory estoppel are (1) a promise, (2) the reasonable expectation by the promisor that the promise will induce reliance or forbearance, (3) actual reliance or forbearance, and (4) the avoidance of injustice by enforcing the promise. (Kajima/Ray Wilson v. Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (2000) 23 Cal.4th 305, 310.) A cause of action for promissory estoppel is a claim in equity that substitutes reliance on a promise for consideration “in the usual sense of something bargained for and given in exchange.” (Youngman v. Nevada Irrigation Dist. (1969) 70 Cal.2d 240, 249.) If actual consideration was given by the promisee, promissory estoppel does not apply. (Id. at p. 250; see Raedeke v. Gibraltar Sav. & Loan Assn. (1974) 10 Cal.3d 665, 672-673; Avidity Partners, LLC v. State of California (2013) 221 Cal.App.4th 1180, 1209; Fontenot v. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (2011) 198 Cal.App.4th 256, 275.) Although a cause of action for promissory estoppel is inconsistent with a cause of action for breach of contract based on the same facts (see, e.g. Money Store Investment Corp. v. Southern Cal. Bank (2002) 98 Cal.App.4th 722, 732), “[w]hen a pleader is in doubt about what actually occurred or what can be established by the evidence, the modern practice allows that party to plead in the alternative and make inconsistent allegations.” (Mendoza v. Continental Sales Co. (2006) 140 Cal.App.4th “‘Directors or officers of a corporation do not incur personal liability for torts of the corporation merely by reason of their official position, unless they participate in the wrong or authorize or direct that it be done. They may be liable, under the rules of tort and agency, for tortious acts committed on behalf of the corporation. [Citations.]’ . . . ‘[I]t is well settled that corporate directors cannot be held vicariously liable for the corporation’s torts in which they do not participate. Their liability, if any, stems from their own tortious conduct, not from their status as directors or officers of the enterprise. [Citation.] “[A]n officer or director will not be liable for torts in which he does not personally participate, of which he has no knowledge, or to which he has not consented. . . . While the corporation itself may be liable for such acts, the individual officer or director will be immune unless he authorizes, directs, or in some meaningful sense actively participates in the wrongful conduct.’” [Citation.]’” (PMC, Inc. v. Kadisha (2000) 78 Cal.App.4th 1368, 1379.) Accordingly, the demurrer to the fraud cause of action was properly sustained as to these two defendants. Likewise, the Fleets have not alleged any facts showing false promises or misrepresentations made to them by the trustee, Recon Trust Company. Accordingly, the demurrer to this cause of action as to this defendant was properly sustained.
  • 12. 1395, 1402; see also Crowley v. Katleman (1994) 8 Cal.4th 666, 690.) The Fleets have alleged facts that could support a cause of action for promissory estoppel against BofA in the event that they cannot establish a cause of action for breach of contract. Whether they can prove this cause of action awaits further development. V. Accounting A cause of action for accounting requires a showing of a relationship between the plaintiff and the defendant, such a fiduciary relationship, that requires an accounting or a showing that the accounts are so complicated they cannot be determined through an ordinary action at law. (Brea v. McGlashan (1934) 3 Cal.App.2d 454, 460; 5 Witkin, Cal. Procedure (5th ed. 2008) Pleading, § 819, p. 236.) “An action for accounting is not available where the plaintiff alleges the right to recover a sum certain or a sum that can be made certain by calculation. [Citation.]” (Teselle v. McLoughlin (2009) 173 Cal.App.4th 156, 179.) The exact nature of the Fleets’ accounting claim is obscure, but it appears to have two parts. First, the Fleets claimed BofA misapplied the loan payments they made from March 2010 through November 2011. Second, the Fleets alleged that there were “surplus” funds left over from the trustee’s sale, although they did not allege that they were supposed to receive these funds. The trial court sustained BofA’s demurrer to this cause of action on the ground that the issue of the surplus funds from the trustee’s sale had been resolved in a different case by a different judge. As part of its request for judicial notice, BofA filed a copy of the minute order in the other case, which denied the Fleets’ motion for relief from an order to deposit surplus funds. It appears, then, that the trial court correctly ruled as to this part of the claim. As to the part dealing with how the loan payments were applied before foreclosure, it appears this issue can be folded into the fraud and breach of contract causes of action. If the Fleets are maintaining that they overpaid BofA – either under the 12
  • 13. TPP agreement or because of the fraudulent promise – the overpayment will constitute an element of their damages. If something else turns up in discovery, they can request leave to amend. As of now, however, they do not appear to have alleged the necessary elements of a separate cause of action for accounting. VI. Leave to Amend The Fleets correctly point out that leave to amend is liberally granted after a demurrer is sustained. But they fail to acknowledge that, on appeal, the appellant has the burden of showing how the pleading can be amended to state a cause of action. (Goodman v. Kennedy (1976) 18 Cal.3d 335, 349.) They have not carried this burden. They have not explained to us how they could amend the causes of action that were properly dismissed without leave to amend to correct their deficiencies. Thus they have provided us with no basis by which we can conclude that the trial court abused its discretion when it denied leave to amend. (See New Plumbing Contractors, Inc. v. Nationwide Mutual Ins. Co. (1992) 7 Cal.App.4th 1088, 1098.) We strongly advise the Fleets to engage counsel. Appellate review of the sustaining of a demurrer tilts heavily in favor of permitting a plaintiff to proceed on the merits, but that favorable atmosphere rapidly evanesces as the case proceeds. Obtaining counsel will help the Fleets to navigate the shoals ahead of them and give them a chance to litigate on equal terms with BofA. DISPOSITION The judgment is reversed. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause of action for fraud is reversed as to BofA and respondents Williams, Smith, and Garnham and affirmed as to respondents Recon Trust, Moynihan, and Desoer. The order sustaining the demurrer to the breach of contract cause of action is reversed as to BofA and affirmed as to the other respondents. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause of action for promissory estoppel is reversed as to BofA and is affirmed as to the other 13
  • 14. respondents. The order sustaining the demurrer to the cause of action for accounting without leave to amend and the dismissal of this cause of action is affirmed. Appellants will recover their costs on appeal. 14 BEDSWORTH, J. WE CONCUR: RYLAARSDAM, ACTING P. J. FYBEL, J.
  • 15. Filed 9/23/14 CERTIFIED FOR PUBLICATION IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOURTH APPELLATE DISTRICT DIVISION THREE ROBERT C. FLEET et al., Plaintiffs and Appellants, v. BANK OF AMERICA N.A. et al., Defendants and Respondents. G050049 (Super. Ct. No. CIVRS1204737) ORDER GRANTING REQUEST FOR PUBLICATION The National Association of Consumer Advocates, The Sturdevant Law Firm and Appellants have requested that our opinion in this matter, filed August 25, 2014, be certified for publication. After reviewing the request, we have concluded the case indeed meets the requirements for publication. Pursuant to California Rules of Court, rules 8.1105(b), 8.1105(c)(2)(4) and (6), the request is GRANTED. The opinion is ordered published in the Official Reports. BEDSWORTH, J. I CONCUR: FYBEL, J.
  • 16. 2