Santa Monica, CA asked in Admiralty / Maritime, Business Law, Collections and Probate for California

Q: I did work on a boat and now the owner has passed how do I get paid?

This was an ongoing relationship and we were finally prepping the boat to sell while the client was in the hospital. He later passed and I had to give back the signed pink slip to his brother and I can not get paid no replies from anyone and I am still securing the boat.

3 Lawyer Answers

A: You may want to consider obtaining a lien.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/vehicle-industry-registration-procedures-manual-2/lien-sales-abandoned-abated-vehicles/liens/

Yelena Gurevich and Anthony M. Avery agree with this answer

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In California, if you provided services and were not paid, you have a right to assert a claim against the decedent's estate for the amount owed. You should file a creditor's claim with the probate court where the decedent's estate is being administered. If the estate is not opened for probate, you may need to consider initiating the process or seeking legal counsel to advise on the best course of action to recover your owed amount.

A: You may have a maritime lien depending on where the vessel is located.

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