Wong

Norman Wong appeals an order dismissing his contract breach and reformation action for failure to prosecute. (Code Civ. Proc., § 583.410 et seq.) He also challenges the court's award of attorney's fees and sanctions to defendant E. Jan Davidian. We affirm.

Wong filed his complaint on February 8, 1982, and his first amended complaint three months later. Davidian responded with a general denial. Wong's first at issue memorandum was filed in May 1983. In September 1983 he substituted in his present attorney. Thereafter the case slumbered for two years until September 1985 when Wong noticed a deposition.

In August 1986, four and one-half years after the action started, Davidian moved to dismiss the case under Code of Civil Procedure section 583.420, subdivision (a)(2)(A), for failure to prosecute within three years. Wong responded with a motion of his own to specially set the case for trial. At the motion hearing in September 1986, nobody appeared on Wong's behalf. The hearing was continued to the following month, at which time the court granted Davidian's motion to dismiss. In later hearings, Davidian was awarded attorney's fees and sanctions.

Wong…