Opinion ID: 1267569
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: facts

Text: In 1979, Adamson was employed to sell drapery fabrics as a sales representative for Marianne and ADO. In 1983, he signed a contract with ADO which characterized him as an Independent Contractor. The contract provided for a 13% commission on ADO fabrics sold, and 6 1/2% on Marianne fabrics. It also entitled Adamson to 120 days' commissions upon his termination. When he was terminated by ADO on April 7, 1987, Adamson received only 30 days' commissions. ADO's records revealed that Adamson was due $14,871.32 for the remaining 90 days' commissions; however, ADO refused payment of this amount, contending that it was due an offset of $15,000 resulting from Adamson's alleged failure to properly maintain customer account cards. Adamson initiated this action under S.C. Code Ann. § 41-10-10 et seq. (1986), governing payment of wages. He contends that he is owed not only the $14, 871.32, post-pre termination commission shortages, but, also, approximately $8400 in pre- termination commission shortages. Pursuant to § 41-10-80, the complaint prayed for treble damages and attorney's fees. Finally, the complaint alleged breach of contract accompanied by a fraudulent act and sought punitive damages. At the outset of trial the court ruled, over objection, that § 41-10-10 et. seq. applied as a matter of law, regardless of whether Adamson was an employee or an independent contractor . The jury returned a verdict of $21,700 actual and $16,000 punitive damages. The trial court trebled the actual damages to $65,100, and awarded $15,000 attorney's fees, for a total verdict of $96,100.