Q: $61k Contract/Invoice Dispute
Hi folks. I am an independent contractor in Arizona working with a firm in Texas. They've been a client of mine for 7 years. I recently submitted invoices totaling $60,000 for work done over many months. My client is beginning to dig their heels in on payment. The owner claims that in January he issued a work stoppage for all independent contractors. This was never conveyed to me. And I haven't seen any written evidence that the owner ever ordered this. I suspect he is not lying, but I am not sure. However, his co-CEO at the time and chief marketing guy approved the work I did, but if they knew about his work stoppage order, they didn't tell me. Co-CEO is gone (left in disgrace over bungling projects), and owner doesn't think the invoices should be paid. Marketing guy won't weigh-in because I think he's afraid of p***** off the owner. Who is right? Contract stipulates payment in 30 days, we are at the halfway mark and I have provided documentation that the work was done and documentat
A: A Colorado attorney could advise best, but you await a response for a month. You ask, "Who is right." Unfortunately, this may not be something for a quick and short direct answer. It could be a question that a court would have to answer after reviewing everything here - agreements, communications, etc. In terms of general considerations, you have a strong argument if your assertion that you didn't receive notice of the work stoppage is reasonable and credible. It may be worth considering legal guidance from a Colorado attorney before proceeding further and investing more time, labor, and material resources, since you describe being at the halfway mark. Good luck
A: Addendum - I apologize - I wrote a "Colorado attorney." That was a mistake. I should have written an attorney who practices in Texas, Arizona, or other jurisdiction (depending on where you might bring suit if necessary, and whether you have a clause that stipulates which region's laws will apply and which region's courts will have jurisdiction for the adjudication of disputes). Good luck
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