Q: I offered to have the computer repaired and have a full internal diagnostic run. Their response was one of two options.
The first option they gave me was to pay for the computer outright, $500 and I could do what I wanted with regard to repairing it. So I would be paying between $750-800 for a $500 computer. Or I could pay to have it repaired, send it back to them, their tech person would check it out to see if it’s a “total loss” and I’d have to pay whatever the outstanding balance would be if their computer guy deems it a “loss.” I never signed any agreements or contracts obligating me to pay for any lost, stolen, or damaged company equipment. I have tried to remedy the situation the best that I can but they are putting me in a tough situation, that I don’t think is legal.
A: Because you did not say whether or not you caused the damage to your ex employer's computer I am assuming that you did. Therefore, I am sure you can see why your ex employer wants you to fix the damage or replace the computer. And since you have several choices as to how to solve this dilemma, why not pick the cheapest one? Pay the $500 they have demanded and keep the damaged computer; then you can either have it repaired or trash it, whatever.
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