Q: Can I legally hold the dog till she pays her bill even if she shows up with police ?
Back in Nov. a friend asked me if I wanted to make some money and dog sit for her. She was moving to Hawaii (for a job) end of Dec and because of restrictions it takes 4 months to get a dog in. To make a long story short I asked for some money I laid out of pocket at end of January and found out she only planned on paying me $100 a month. I charge $20/day. I have repeatedly asked for a payment to no avail. She was supposed to come get her dog to transport in April. Stating upon satisfactory return of her dog she will give me money, but did not state an amount. I told her her dog will be given to her after her bill is paid. She has threatened to call the police and necessary agencies when she returns. She also left her car here which I was going to help her sell by showing it to anyone interested. Car not sold.I told her last week I wouldn't help with the car and remove it. She hasn't. What can I do ? Hold the car too? Have the car towed by a storage company?
A: She might be able to sue you for conversion of personal property. Holding the dog or car hostage sounds like a bad plan. Rather, you may be able to sue her for the money she owes you. If her car is on your property and she's breached her promise to move it, you may decide to have it towed off your property. The best first step is an Initial Consultation with an Attorney. You can read more about me, my credentials, awards, honors, testimonials, and media appearances/ publications on my law practice website. I practice law in CA, NY, MA, and DC in the following areas of law: Business & Contracts, Criminal Defense, Divorce & Child Custody, and Education Law. This answer does not constitute legal advice; make any predictions, guarantees, or warranties; or create any Attorney-Client relationship.
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