Opinion ID: 2155224
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: SCN's Counterclaim and the Breach of the Lease Findings

Text: [¶ 15] When facts found after trial are challenged on appeal, we review the record in the light most favorable to the trial court's judgment to determine if the findings are supported by competent evidence. Acadia Ins. Co. v. Keiser Indus., Inc., 2002 ME 57, ¶ 14, 793 A.2d 495, 498. Any ambiguities are resolved in favor of the judgment. State v. Haven, 2002 ME 38, ¶ 3, 791 A.2d 938, 939. A similar standard of review applies to damages findings. Jenkins, Inc. v. Walsh Bros., Inc., 2001 ME 98, ¶ 18, 776 A.2d 1229, 1235-36. A damages award based on a judgmental approximation is proper where the evidence establishes facts from which the amount of damages may be determined to a probability. Id.; Merrill Trust Co. v. State, 417 A.2d 435, 440-41 (Me.1980). In this record, there is more than sufficient evidence to support the trial court's findings that SCN breached the lease agreement by disrupting and interfering with the Botkas' quiet enjoyment of the premises and their business activities. These findings support the court's judgment in favor of the Botkas on SCN's counterclaim to enforce provisions of the lease. [¶ 16] Separately, there is sufficient evidence in the record to support the court's findings that SCN had overcharged the Botkas in its adjustments of the rent and in its assessment of costs for the fax machine. The amounts found as damages for these overcharges, $2200 and $612.15 respectively, are fully supported by the record.