Washington, DC asked in Contracts and Construction Law for Maryland

Q: Contractor got money but never completed restaurant buildout

I paid a person having Construction Firm license to build a restaurant but he escaped with money & never delivered. I paid him a lot of money already, but he delivered minimal work and all went wrong. I live in Maryland, so does he. Kindly please advice what I can do. Thank you.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Thomas C. Valkenet
Thomas C. Valkenet
Answered
  • Construction Law Lawyer
  • Baltimore, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: If you think he has assets sufficient to satisfy your debt, consider a lawsuit in the courts. Depending on the amount to be claimed, you can sue in either the district or circuit courts. There are many causes of action for breach of a contract to provide construction services. You can also complete the work with a replacement contractor and sue for the increased completion cost. But construction matters are not easy, and litigation is not cheap. Be prepared to pay tens of thousands in fees to get your lawsuit to a point of decision or resolution by settlement.

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