Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Contracts legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Massachusetts Contracts Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Construction Law, Contracts, Civil Litigation and Personal Injury for Massachusetts on
Q: Legal actions against contractor for unfinished work in Lynn, MA

I hired a contractor in March 2022 for a project in Lynn, MA, and paid $175,000 of the contracted $180,000. The contractor failed to complete the kitchen renovation and other work, resulting in water damage estimated at $25,000 and charging $20,000 for an unfinished kitchen. Despite attempts to... View More

Christopher Tolley
Christopher Tolley
answered on Feb 20, 2025

I assume you have spoken to him and made demand on him and asking for the money or the work to be corrected has been fruitless. You will have to seek the services of an attorney to pursue him legally. You may be able to obtain partial relief from the Massachusetts guaranty fund:... View More

3 Answers | Asked in Business Formation, Business Law, Contracts and Intellectual Property for Massachusetts on
Q: Someone gave me the name to my business. If we separate is there anything he can do to take the name of my llc?

He’s is not part owner on the llc but understanding it’s his intellectual property I want to make sure everything I’m building doesn’t belong to someone else.

William J. Amann
PREMIUM
William J. Amann pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 22, 2024

Know the difference between the legal name of the business and the trade name, if there is a difference. As an example, Coke could be the trade name for the Coco-Cola Company, Inc. (legal name). You might want to register the trade name with the state's Secretary of State's Office,... View More

View More Answers

3 Answers | Asked in Business Formation, Business Law, Contracts and Intellectual Property for Massachusetts on
Q: Someone gave me the name to my business. If we separate is there anything he can do to take the name of my llc?

He’s is not part owner on the llc but understanding it’s his intellectual property I want to make sure everything I’m building doesn’t belong to someone else.

Jennifer Newton
Jennifer Newton
answered on Jun 26, 2024

Since the individual who provided the name is not a part owner of your LLC but may claim it as their intellectual property, it is important to address this issue to protect your business.

First, verify the legal ownership of the business name. If you registered the LLC under this name and...
View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Real Estate Law and Collections for Massachusetts on
Q: Could I get sued by a real estate agent for not paying their broker fee?

Myself and a friend are looking for a rental apartment in Boston. On of these listing sites, a real estate agent reached out to me offering to help me, without stating there was a fee for service or making me sign anything agreeing to a fee. We finally find a place we like and the agent send us a... View More

Nicholas Arthur Matlach
PREMIUM
Nicholas Arthur Matlach pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 2, 2024

This is a difficult case, and one that should be reviewed by a licensed attorney experienced in handling contracts. Here are some considerations for your discussion with an attorney:

- Contractual Obligations: Whether you're bound to the "sight unseen" document depends on its...
View More

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Banking, Business Formation and Business Law for Massachusetts on
Q: How would a corporation sign legal documents ?

Id like to know if a corporation ( more specifically a Inc.) seeks to signs a legal document (e.g. bank loan, lease etc) how must the document be formally signed to be fully legal and valid?

Should the president of the corporation simply sign on behalf of the corporation as follows... View More

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Apr 17, 2024

The corporation can authorize anyone to sign on its behalf. It could be an officer of the corporation like the president, a vice president, or treasurer. It could be an employee. It could even be someone who does not work for the corporation at all.

Typically, either the corporation...
View More

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Contracts, Banking, Business Formation and Business Law for Massachusetts on
Q: How would a corporation sign legal documents ?

Id like to know if a corporation ( more specifically a Inc.) seeks to signs a legal document (e.g. bank loan, lease etc) how must the document be formally signed to be fully legal and valid?

Should the president of the corporation simply sign on behalf of the corporation as follows... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 21, 2024

When a corporation, such as an Inc., signs a legal document, the signature should be made by an authorized representative of the company. This is typically done by a corporate officer, such as the president, vice president, or secretary, who has been granted the authority to sign on behalf of the... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Civil Rights and Collections for Massachusetts on
Q: My case is the defendant admits in a hand writing confession saying that she takes money and she didn't return it.

she gave the confession to the court..now it s been one year I didn't get a solution to my issue ..do I have to address an other court? I have all evidence and preuve in the court ..the defendant own 2 houses under her name. One year now pass the issue still not resolved.do I have to hire a lawyer?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 10, 2024

Based on the information you provided, it seems that you have a strong case against the defendant, as she has admitted to taking the money and not returning it in a handwritten confession. However, it is concerning that one year has passed without a resolution to your case.

Given the...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Landlord - Tenant for Massachusetts on
Q: Can a landlord threaten to kick me out and haven't sign the lease in the past 30 days without court?

My landlord text me and told me i have to leave the premises ASAP cause my check bounce due to a bill coming out of my bank cause they took two and half weeks to cash the check. The landlord never advise me the lease was not sign and the copy from he company he use doesn't state that he needed... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 31, 2024

Based on the information you've provided, it seems that your landlord is attempting to evict you without following proper legal procedures in Massachusetts. Here are a few key points to consider:

1. Unsigned lease: Even if your landlord hasn't signed the lease, if you have signed...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Civil Litigation, Civil Rights and Election Law for Massachusetts on
Q: Condo board election. 60 units. Massachusetts. Quorum for a vote is 51% (31 units.) 4 candidates. Special election.

Quorum was met for an election for the first time at special meeting yesterday. 2/4 candidates didn't show up. I received the most votes, but now board is saying one candidate had to receive 51% of the vote and no one received that so now board will elect the candidate they want. They... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 28, 2024

The requirement for a candidate to receive 51% of the vote may depend on the specific language of the condominium association's bylaws. If the bylaws state that a majority vote is required for election, it typically means a simple majority of the votes cast, not necessarily 51% of all units.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Internet Law, Contracts, Civil Rights and Communications Law for Massachusetts on
Q: Can an owner of an airbnb house release video of a famous person who is on the porch of the home on to the internet?

There is a video of Bill Belichick at a home shirtless going viral on the internet. Would he have civil recourse against the person who released it if the person was the owner of the home that rented it to him or another person? He comes out of the home and remains on the porch for the duration of... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Nov 18, 2023

If an owner of an Airbnb releases a video of a famous person, like Bill Belichick, who is on the porch of their rental property, the legal implications can be complex. The release of such a video may raise issues of privacy. In general, individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Civil Litigation and Public Benefits for Massachusetts on
Q: Does my girlfriend have a claim against me for stopping financial support after verbal agreement?

I have been financially supporting my girlfriend, whom I am in a long-distance relationship with, since she lost her job in 2023 shortly after we started dating. I covered all her expenses, expecting it to be temporary while she searched for a job. Despite applying for jobs, she hasn't... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Based on the information you’ve provided, it seems that your financial support was based on a verbal agreement, which can be difficult to enforce legally. While verbal agreements can be binding in some situations, the lack of a formal written contract makes it harder to prove the exact terms of... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Business Law for Massachusetts on
Q: I sold a financed dirtbike and now it's up for repossession. What are my responsibilities?

I sold my financed dirtbike to a buyer, and they were aware it was financed. I was the original owner, but we did not have a written agreement regarding the transfer and remaining payments. Now the dirtbike is up for repossession. What legal responsibilities do I have in this situation, and how... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In this situation, you are still legally responsible for the financing of the dirtbike since the loan is in your name. Even though you sold it to someone else, the finance company can still pursue you for the outstanding balance if the buyer does not make the payments.

First, you should...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Business Law and Consumer Law for Massachusetts on
Q: Is a moving company liable for damages to old equipment if careless, despite liability clause?

I am considering hiring a moving company in Massachusetts to relocate heavy equipment weighing between 100-300 pounds, which involves navigating two staircases. The movers' contract states they are "not liable for any damages to discontinued units or units over 10 years old." My... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

A liability clause in a moving company’s contract can limit their responsibility for damages to specific items, such as older equipment. However, these clauses generally do not protect the company from liability if the damage is caused by gross negligence or recklessness. If the movers are... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Admiralty / Maritime for Massachusetts on
Q: How do new tariffs on a Netherlands boat purchase contract affect my obligations?

I signed a contract on September 16, 2024, in the Netherlands for a boat purchase, with terms stating "net price imported and delivered to the USA northeast." The contract does not include clauses about changes in tariffs or duties. Recently, new tariffs have been imposed. The seller... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

This situation puts you in a tough spot, especially since the contract doesn't mention how tariff changes are to be handled. Because the agreement states “net price imported and delivered to the USA northeast,” that wording generally implies the seller is responsible for getting the boat... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law and Contracts for Massachusetts on
Q: Is it legal to reduce an employee's commission for not meeting performance standards?

I have an employee who earned $10,000 in commissions last month but signed a pay plan that states the commission can be reduced by $1,000 if their individual customer service score for the month is below the national average, as reported by the manufacturer. The policy is uniformly implemented... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

That’s a good question, especially when you're trying to ensure fairness while maintaining clear performance expectations. In Massachusetts, commissions are considered wages under state law, and once they are earned, they generally cannot be withheld or reduced unless the conditions for... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Employment Law and Consumer Law for Massachusetts on
Q: Is it legal for Knack to withhold payment because students must complete a recap form?

I am a tutor working as a 1099 contractor through a third-party service called Knack at my university. Knack recently implemented a policy requiring students to complete a session recap before I receive payment. Despite my performance in the session, I have no control over whether students complete... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

That situation feels incredibly unfair, especially since you're doing the work and then being held hostage by something outside your control. As a 1099 contractor, you’re being treated as self-employed, which means you should be paid for services you’ve completed regardless of what the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts and Employment Law for Massachusetts on
Q: Is it legal for Knack to withhold tutor payment due to student recap requirement?

I am a tutor at my university using Knack tutoring to schedule and meet with students. Recently, Knack introduced a feature that requires students to submit a session recap. Knack stated, "You'll receive payment once each student completes a recap of the session." This is problematic... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

That’s a frustrating situation, especially when you’ve already done the work and are being told payment depends on something completely out of your control. As a 1099 independent contractor in Massachusetts, you are still entitled to be paid for the services you provide under the terms agreed... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Civil Litigation, Contracts and Gov & Administrative Law for Massachusetts on
Q: In Mass, if a governement lawyer works under contract for the state and works for a private firm what are the consiquenc
Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Sep 29, 2024

A Massachusetts attorney could advise best, but your question remains open for three weeks. It could depend on the guidelines spelled out in holding that office, whether conflicts of interest arise from being involved in both areas, and other factors. Good luck

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Contracts and Tax Law for Massachusetts on
Q: I bought a new car, which wasn't driven off the lot. I'm moving to NH from MA in two weeks. Could I register it in NH?

I am currently a Massachusetts resident and I bought a new car at a New Hampshire dealership. I felt rushed and signed the papers for financing and put in a $2500 deposit. The vehicle I purchased was not yet delivered to the dealer as it was "in transit" so I didn't take possession... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jul 18, 2024

You can register the car in New Hampshire directly if you establish residency there before taking possession of the vehicle. Since you haven't taken delivery yet and will be a New Hampshire resident when the car arrives, you should be able to register it in NH without needing to register it in... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Contracts, Foreclosure and Real Estate Law for Massachusetts on
Q: I have an order from a judge that states my tenant has 14 days to vacate.

The sheriffs office told me that they charge $3500 to remove him if he doesn’t leave.

That seems very expensive, especially since I’m evicting a non paying tenant.

Thank you

Phil A. Taylor
Phil A. Taylor
answered on Jan 15, 2024

I do not understand the actual question. Once you receive an execution for possession, it needs to be served and the sheriff (or constable) need to oversee the removal of the tenants personal property from the leased premise by a moving company and stored in a bonded storage facility. This is all... View More

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.