What is the standard for awarding statutory attorney fees?

In reviewing an award of attorney fees, the court applies a de novo standard when it must determine whether the criteria for an award of attorney fees have been satisfied and the issue involves statutory construction, which is a question of law. (Connerly v. State Personnel Bd. (2006) 37 Cal.4th 1169, 1175.) The propriety or amount of statutory attorney fees to award is a discretionary trial court decision. (Carver v. Chevron U.S.A., Inc. (2002) 97 Cal.App.4th 132, 142.)