What do I do about a bounced check for payment of services?
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What do I do about a bounced check for payment of services?
I own a solar energy company and I put panels on a home. The check they paid me with bounced and now they are avoiding me. I went
to the house and disconnected them so they can’t use the panels. They called the cops on me for destruction of property. The cops said I have to go back and reconnect them. What should I do?
Asked on December 24, 2017 under Business Law, Alaska
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
You have to reconnect them: when someone owes you money, the law does NOT let you disable, turn off, damage, or take their property--even property you had installed. Your legal option is to sue them for the money they owe you--the amount of the bounced check and any other amounts they agreed to pay but did not--as well as for any other costs their actions caused you, such as a NSF or bounced check fee. If the amount at stake is equal to or less than the limit for small claims court, sue in small claims, for "beach of contract," as your own attorney or "pro se," as the fastest, most cost-effective option; otherwise, retain an attorney to sue for you.
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