Legal Question in Business Law in Massachusetts
business and a web site
A year ago, friends were opening a
restaurant. I built a web site to
publicize it (on my own), then let my
friends know. They loved it, and
started providing info to put on it.
Then 6 months ago, they started
being bossy and abusive, yelling
when they were stressed out about
other things. Last week, it
hit a fever pitch, and I hung up the
phone because of the yelling. They
called back, said they'd forget I hung
up on them. I said that I did so for a
reason, that they must treat me with
consideration and respect.
A few days later they wanted to take
over updating the web site. I didn't
want to deal with any of it (they
don't know how to code, it's my
registration/hosting/security), so I
took the site down. Now they show
up on my doorstep and threaten me
with litigation for disrupting their
business.
They never paid to register or host a
domain. They never paid for
anything. Every once in a while I
would get a free meal at their
restaurant, but I couldn't count on it.
Anything illegal?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: business and a web site
the rules of engagement depend on any written agreement; in its absence the issue of illegality depends on any contest between who is believable. Illegality is not the issue.
You need to consult an attorney.
Re: business and a web site
The issue is whether you should be paid under a theory of quantum meruit or implied contract;))
Re: business and a web site
I don't believe that you are doing anything illegal by shutting down your private website.
My one concern is that a creative legal argument could be made that: once you began to routinely offer a service (internet development) in exchange for a payment or benefits (meals), you may be prevented from unilaterally terminating the services.
You may want to retain counsel to let them know you will protect your business interests. It may also be a good time to see if they are willing to purchase or lease the domain name/registration/security from you on terms favorable to both parties.
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