What to do if I placed a non-refundable deposit down for my wedding officiant but they have not been responding to my calls?
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What to do if I placed a non-refundable deposit down for my wedding officiant but they have not been responding to my calls?
In contract she states that she will complete certain task after the deposit is received. I also have emails and text messages that prove my attempts to contact and receive action on her end. Can I sue for a portion, if not all, of my deposit back?
Asked on February 12, 2013 under Business Law, California
Answers:
MD, Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
You should take all of your communications and go to speak with her at her place of business. If she refuses to meet or speak with you, immediately contact the police and file a police report for theft...she took your money without anything. This is a long shot, but in many instances it can set up the record to get the state attorney general involved. Then, if you still don't get your money, contact the state attorney general. If that agency is unsuccessful in getting you your money back, contact the licensing certification agency for the officiant (like if she is a justice of the peace). If no help there, sue in small claims court if the amount is less than the maximum small claims court cap for which you can sue.
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