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Noel v. Cusanos Italian Bakery, Inc.

Citations: 791 So. 2d 556; 2001 Fla. App. LEXIS 10791; 2001 WL 863600Docket: No. 3D01-830

Court: District Court of Appeal of Florida; August 1, 2001; Florida; State Appellate Court

Narrative Opinion Summary

Marguens Noel's appeal regarding his disqualification from unemployment benefits due to failure to report to work has been affirmed. The Unemployment Appeals Commission's decision stands because it is supported by competent substantial evidence, and the Commission does not have the authority to reweigh evidence or replace the findings of the appeals referee. Key evidence included testimonies from Noel's general manager and supervisor, who stated that his absence was unauthorized. Despite Noel's claim of authorization from a supervisor, the appeals referee has the discretion to assess credibility and resolve discrepancies in witness testimonies. As a result, the findings of the appeals referee are upheld.

Legal Issues Addressed

Authority of Unemployment Appeals Commission

Application: The Commission's decision is upheld as it is based on competent substantial evidence, and it lacks the authority to reweigh evidence or substitute its judgment for that of the appeals referee.

Reasoning: The Unemployment Appeals Commission's decision stands because it is supported by competent substantial evidence, and the Commission does not have the authority to reweigh evidence or replace the findings of the appeals referee.

Competent Substantial Evidence Requirement

Application: The decision to disqualify Noel from unemployment benefits is based on competent substantial evidence, including testimonies from his general manager and supervisor about his unauthorized absence.

Reasoning: Key evidence included testimonies from Noel's general manager and supervisor, who stated that his absence was unauthorized.

Role of Appeals Referee in Credibility Assessments

Application: The appeals referee has the discretion to assess the credibility of witnesses and resolve any discrepancies in testimonies, which is crucial in affirming the decision regarding Noel's disqualification.

Reasoning: Despite Noel's claim of authorization from a supervisor, the appeals referee has the discretion to assess credibility and resolve discrepancies in witness testimonies.