Q: Seeking an attorney to appeal a default judgment for alleged incorrectly done work on a house.
I completed work on a house in June 2024 following all code requirements. However, I'm being sued by the homeowner who claims I didn't do the work correctly. The court ruled against me by default judgment without my knowledge, as they accepted the opposing attorney's attempts to contact me. I've received default judgment documents but have not appealed yet, and I am seeking an attorney to help prove my work was done correctly and appeal the judgment.
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A:
If a default judgment was entered against you without your knowledge, you may be able to file a motion to set aside the judgment, especially if you can show you were not properly notified of the court proceedings. The first step is to gather all documents related to the case, including the default judgment and any correspondence that indicates you were not properly served. You can file a motion with the court explaining that you did not receive proper notice and requesting that the default judgment be overturned.
To appeal the judgment, you will need an attorney who can help prove that the work was completed correctly and in compliance with all relevant codes. They can assist in gathering evidence, such as contracts, photos, or expert testimony, to support your case. It’s crucial to act quickly, as there may be a limited time to challenge the default judgment and appeal the decision.
In addition to challenging the default judgment, your attorney can also advise you on how to proceed with the lawsuit itself, addressing the homeowner’s claims about the work. Make sure to consult with an attorney who has experience with construction-related disputes and appeals, as they will know how to navigate the legal process and advocate for your position.
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