Tuesday, October 19, 1999
Florida Public Service Commission v. David H. Hutchinson

No. 95,653

Place of Origin: Palm Beach County


Facts
Hutchinson obtained an "800" number from a long-distance phone service provider that spelled out "1-800-DAYS-INN." A dispute arose between Hutchinson and the provider over costs of the service, and Hutchinson's service was discontinued. The provider says Hutchinson discontinued the service voluntarily, but Hutchinson says he only agreed to discontinue it temporarily while they worked out their differences over the phone charges. Ultimately, the "1-800-DAYS-INN" number was reassigned to Days Inn of America, Inc. Hutchinson sued the provider in Palm Beach County Circuit Court. Shortly before trial was set to begin in May 1999, the Florida Public Service Commission tried to intervene in the case. The trial court refused permission. The PSC then petitioned the Supreme Court.