Case Background
This case came out of a renovation project at 240 Ocean Blvd., Golden Beach, Florida. SK Invest Group, LLC sued First Florida International, LLC (FFI) and Edward Genin, claiming that FFI and Genin acted fraudulently and violated their contract. According to SK Invest, FFI promised quality work and charged $270,000 for services that were never performed or were done poorly. SK Invest said that despite making payments, the work was delayed and misrepresented, costing the company money and causing long‑term financial losses.
The cause that led to the dispute
SK Invest claimed that FFI and Genin had failed to honour their agreement. The company said that the Defendants created false work orders, charged for work never performed, and used payments for other projects. SK Invest also stated that FFI and Genin violated warranty terms and engaged in unfair and deceptive practices.
Injuries suffered
SK Invest suffered significant financial losses. The delays meant the property was unavailable for rental. The company also claimed that the quality of work was deficient and violated applicable building codes. This caused long‑term damage and lost income.
Damages sought
SK Invest sought actual damages for breach of contract, breach of warranty, fraud, and misrepresentation. The Plaintiff also requested recovery for unjust enrichment and statutory penalties.
Key Arguments and Proceedings
Plaintiff’s Position
SK Invest argued that FFI and Genin acted with fraud and failed to fulfil their obligations. The Plaintiff stated that work was charged for but never performed, and that payments were used for unrelated expenses.
Defense Position
FFI and Genin denied the claims, stating that they acted within the agreement and contested the nature of the delays and deficiencies. They argued that SK Invest failed to prove that payments were used improperly or that the work was incomplete.
Legal Representation
Plaintiff: SK Invest Group, LLC
· Counsel for Plaintiff: David E. Wolff
Defendants: First Florida International, LLC and Edward Genin
· Counsel for Defendants: Lewis Lerman
Claims Asserted
Breach of Contract Against FFI and Genin
SK Invest argued that FFI and Genin failed to honour their agreement for renovations.
Unjust Enrichment Against FFI and Genin
The Plaintiff claimed FFI and Genin kept payments for work not performed.
Breach of Warranty Against FFI and Genin
The Plaintiff stated that the quality and timing of work violated express and implied warranties.
Negligent and Fraudulent Misrepresentation Against Genin
The Plaintiff argued that Genin intentionally gave false estimates and charged for work never conducted.
FDUTPA and Fraud Claims Against FFI and Genin
SK Invest stated that the Defendants engaged in unfair and deceptive practices, making misrepresentations that induced payments.
Defense Arguments
FFI and Genin argued that payments were applied appropriately and that any delays were due to external circumstances. They contested the assertion that their work violated any agreement or warranty.
Jury Verdict
The jury found in favour of SK Invest Group, LLC. They ruled that FFI failed to honour the agreement, Genin acted with fraud and misrepresentation, and both Defendants engaged in unfair and deceptive practices. The jury awarded $735,610 to SK Invest Group for damages caused by the breach of contract and misrepresentations. The verdict underscored the seriousness of charging for work not performed and making false statements to secure payments.
