Loranger Construction Corp. v. E.F. Hauserman Co.

The plaintiff, Loranger Construction Corporation, appeals from an order of the Superior Court denying its motion for leave to file a second substituted declaration. Prior to this, demurrers to the original declaration and a first substituted declaration had been sustained. Ordinarily, a motion for leave to amend is within the trial judge’s discretion and is not appealable under G. L. c. 231, § 96. Means v. Leveroni, 297 Mass. 61, 64. Abrams v. Factory Mutual Liability Insurance Company, 298 Mass. 141, 146. In the instant case, however, the trial judge stated as his reason for denial: “Court being of opinion there is no cause of action.” This is a ruling of law as to a matter apparent on the record, in the circumstances is decisive of the case, and hence is appealable under §96. Looking at count 1 of the plaintiffs amended declaration, we find that it does set out a cause of action in contract. It alleges an agreement, a breach and the resultant damages. Clark v. Gulesian, 197 Mass. 492. Daddario v. Pittsfield, 301 Mass. 552. It is only necessary that the plaintiff state the substantive facts necessary to constitute the cause of action with substantial certainty. G. L. c. 231, § 7. The order denying the plaintiffs motion for leave to amend is reversed and an order is to be entered allowing that motion. So ordered.