Sacramento, CA asked in Consumer Law and Contracts for California

Q: Can someone help me not get screwed on a car buy? I have paperwork but no ability to claim ownership.

we tried to buy her car on Saturday, but it wasn't her car yet since she never completed the title transfer from her late father to her before selling it to us. Sunday I find out, call DMV Mon. for advice and are told I need a bill of sale. Mechanical issue Monday, she stopped responding after I let her know about it and has not responded to communications since. She has our $3500, we have her car and can do nothing with it. Yesterday registration was due, fees increased. Right now we just want our money back and she can have her car. We need help.

I'm on disability and a live in caregiver to 75 yr old uncle, this is supposed to be his car.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Scott Richard Kaufman
Scott Richard Kaufman
Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Los Altos, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Sorry for your issues. NO ONE benefits from a "judgment" against them. This matter, at 3,500 or so, is in small claims court, which takes about 60 days start to finish. IF this seller refuses to "do the right thing" you should take her to small claims court, that judgment, when you (hopefully) win, will damage the seller significantly and perhaps "encourage" seller to make it right?

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