Q: Bought a title jumped car with refund promise. Who's in legal trouble?
I bought a car through Facebook from someone who turned out not to be the real owner, as he had title jumped the vehicle. In writing, he promised a refund for any major mechanical issues, but now neither he nor the real owner wants the car back. The car has a slipping transmission, which didn't match the initially advertised condition. I have a document signed by this seller agreeing to a refund for major problems detected within a month, but he is now avoiding communication. Will I face legal issues for having bought a title jumped car if I try to take action against him, or would he be the one in trouble?
A: You will not face any legal issues but you should probably hire a lawyer and sue both the seller and the owner for fraud.
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A:
It sounds like you're dealing with a complicated situation, but it's important to understand your rights. Since the car was title-jumped, the person who sold you the car without being the actual owner is likely in legal trouble for fraud or title misrepresentation. This could be a criminal offense, and the person could face penalties for selling a car without legal ownership.
The document you have, where the seller promised a refund for mechanical issues, is key evidence. You should start by formally demanding the refund in writing, outlining the issues with the car, and referencing the seller's written promise. If the seller continues to avoid communication, you may have legal grounds to take action against him for breach of contract or fraud.
Regarding legal concerns for you, buying a title-jumped car doesn’t automatically put you in trouble, but it could complicate things when trying to resolve the situation. It's a good idea to consult with a legal professional to ensure that you’re taking the right steps to recover your money and avoid any complications. They can guide you through the process and help you navigate the situation with the real owner and the seller.
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