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Getting a client to pay Two of my friends recently did a side project for a small client. Abrubtly, out of the blue, when the project was 90% completed, (and barely over budget) the contract was "terminated", and the company's owner sent an email saying "he won't be paying most of the cost since the project wasn't completed nor was it to his satisfaction". There was a contract, and he/the company owes them around 8k. I've never had to deal with a situation like this. Usually I only have to huff and puff and clients eventually agree to pay, if they even complain at all. Both my friends are in their early twenties, so age may have a factor in it. Is it worth it for them to hire a lawyer? Should they just take the loss? I know they should have not given any of the code until payment, but sometimes thats not always possible. Thanks in advance.
vince
It is always possible to withhold code until payment and that's what experienced people do.
You can probably establish via emails or other documents that there was a contract ( this doesn't have to be written down) in which case your lawyer can calmly give them the choice of paying $8,000 now or $50,000 in three months time.
Would you give me $1000 to get $8000? That is the real question. Of course it is worth it. In addition, he can fashion a contract for them in the future.
MSHack
Get some friends who are really good with steal pipes and pay a courtesy visit to the faithfull customer. Don't forget the ski masks.
RP
steel pipes. I didn't meant for you to steal the guy's pipes, just break his kneecaps.
RP
Stealing his pipes, especially if he has a very good collection of pipes, may well be more productive than stealing his knee caps.
Simon Lucy
Go ahead, steal his pipes. Assuming they're copper, the recycle fees will more than pay for your lost $8k.
Recycler
Sort it out if you can by daily pestering, calling a lawyer, withholding code. You still may have to write off some or all of the money, though.
Herr Herr
Go talk to a lawyer. Might not cost you anything just to bat around the issue and get an estimate on various options. A "you owe my client money" letter on law firm letterhead might be enough to show the customer that you're serious and convince them to pay up.
John C.
Agree with the first poster on how it should be done.
son of parnas
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