Sacramento, CA asked in Contracts and Admiralty / Maritime for California

Q: So I did some work on a boat and the lady didn't pay the full Bill she gave me a portion and told me that's all I get

I have pictures witnesses of the whole ordeal

2 Lawyer Answers
Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
Answered
  • Maritime Law Lawyer
  • Little Neck, NY

A: Vessel repairs could create the basis for a maritime lien. You could reach out to a California attorney to review the matter to determine what the best course of action would be. In some cases, such matters are handled as contract actions under state law. An attorney who reviewed the file should be able to determine what the most cost-effective option would be - remedies under ordinary state law or maritime law. It could depend on the facts and the setting. Good luck

Tim Akpinar

Maurice Mandel II
Maurice Mandel II
Answered
  • Newport Beach, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Unless you are owed more than $10,000- Small Claims Court may be the path of least resistance for you to recover against the boat owner. You don't say why she doesn't want to pay the full bill, is she unhappy with the work? Prove up your case with photos and all your receipts for materials. Take eyewitnesses to your days working. Don't make the case a he said/she said matter. Expect if there is substantial money owed that she will have an "expert" to testify how your work was below professional standards.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

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