Can a motion for leave to amend a complaint for abuse of discretion be denied?

We review the denial of a motion for leave to amend a complaint for abuse of discretion. (Branick v. Downey Savings & Loan Assn. (2006) 39 Cal.4th 235, 242.) "It is well established that California courts have "a policy of great liberality in allowing amendments at any stage of the proceeding so as to dispose of cases upon their substantial merits where the authorization does not prejudice the substantial rights of others.' [Citation.] Indeed, "it is a rare case in which 'a court will be justified in refusing a party leave to amend his [or her] pleading so that he [or she] may properly present his

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