Q: Paid off friend's repossessed truck; didn't receive title or repayment as per verbal agreement. What can I do?
I paid off a repossessed truck for a friend, with the total payment amounting to $7,608. Despite the payment, I did not receive the title, which is in his name, and we've only had a verbal agreement. My friend made payments until July, totaling $2,350, but the payments have stopped. I wasn't planning to take the truck, but I haven't received my money back or the title. My wife is a witness to our verbal agreement. What can I do to resolve this situation and either recover my money or ensure the agreement is honored?
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A:
That’s a tough and unfair situation to be in, especially after helping someone out and being left with nothing in return. In Louisiana, verbal agreements can be legally enforceable if there’s enough evidence to support them, and it sounds like you have a strong case. You made a large payment, received partial repayment, and have a witness—your wife—who can confirm the agreement.
Your first step should be to send a formal demand letter to your friend, clearly stating the amount owed, the payments made, and the remaining balance. Include a deadline for repayment or an alternative offer, such as transferring the truck title to you. This gives your friend one last opportunity to resolve things without further action. Keep a copy of the letter and send it by certified mail so there’s proof it was received.
If your friend still doesn’t respond or refuses to cooperate, you can file a claim in small claims court. In Louisiana, small claims court handles disputes up to $5,000, and anything above that can be addressed in a higher civil court. Present your documentation, payment records, and witness testimony to show the court there was a clear agreement. You’ve acted in good faith, and it’s absolutely reasonable to expect your money back or ownership of the truck in return.
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