Court Opinion

ID: 9547814
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-07 17:52:47.756648+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T15:18:07.851913
License: Public Domain

BAKES, Justice,
concurring:
I agree with the majority in reversing the directed verdict granted to the defendants. However, I do feel that, since this case is being returned to the lower court for jury trial, it should be pointed out that, under the facts of this case, plaintiff might prevail on his specific performance claims through application of the doctrine of part performance.
The doctrine of part performance is an equitable doctrine which, though not applicable in an action for damages, would apply in an action for specific performance. Allen v. Moyle, 84 Idaho 18, 367 P.2d 579 (1961). Idaho courts have long held that where certain factors amounting to part performance are present, an oral assent to convey real property may be enforced absent compliance with the statute of frauds. Accordingly, if the appellant can prove at trial that the Rupp spouses did assent to sell the timber, and also show part performance through factors such as possession of the real property (timber, in this case), the making of substantial improvements, and partial payment, then he would be entitled to specific performance of the contract involved. See McMahon v. Auger, 83 Idaho 27, 357 P.2d 374 (1960); Boesiger v. Freer, 85 Idaho 551, 381 P.2d 802 (1963); Wood v. Hill, 70 Idaho 93, 212 P.2d 391 (1949).