Opinion ID: 1199761
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 13

Heading: seiniger and berry cases

Text: Similarly, the facts in both the Seiniger and Berry cases do not support a finding that the fee agreements are unreasonable or that the Commission's substituted fee arrangement is more reasonable. Without properly enacted guidelines it is impossible for the Commission to exercise its duty to approve undisputed attorney fees under I.C. § 72-803. In an effort to support its sua sponte reduction of the contingency fee agreements in these two cases, the Commission unsuccessfully attempts to hang its hat on the factors articulated in Hogaboom and Clark. [4] Although Hogaboom and Clark provide helpful substantive guidance for the adoption of an implementation regulation under I.C. § 72-803, the two cases interpret the application of I.C. § 72-804 and are inapposite to a situation arising under I.C. § 72-803, where the Commission dons its quasi-legislative rather than quasi-judicial cloak. Under the provisions of I.C. § 72-803, the Commission has broad discretion to approve fees but must adopt regulations defining the criteria for approval or rejection. Under the terms of I.C. § 72-803, the Commission upon making the threshold determination of unreasonableness must fix (approve) attorney fees. For the foregoing reasons, we hold that the Commission's sua sponte reduction of appellants' fees was arbitrary and capricious, and not supported by substantial and competent evidence. We therefore vacate the order and remand the cases for proceedings consistent with this opinion.