Legal Question in Business Law in California

A definition of ''reward''
I sent, via e-mail, a local radio talk show host a bunch of valuable information and in one of her replies she wrote, ''You're the BEST! I look forward to sharing this AND rewarding you.'' (This is the exact quote.) I asked for only $125 and now she's had one of her bosses respond to this by saying my ''reward'' was having my name mentioned on the air (among other various excuses). I went to dictionary.com and the 1st definition for ''reward'' is a sum of MONEY offered for the detection/capture of a criminal...recovery of property, ETC. (I believe the meaning is obvious.) From what she wrote above, does this woman owe me some money or not? Thank you.

Asked on 9/15/06, 6:28 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

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Re: A definition of ''reward''

No.

Answered on 9/15/06, 6:42 pm

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Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

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Re: A definition of ''reward''

Absolutely not.

Dictionary definitions are not legally binding on anyone. If they were, what would happen when one dictionary disagrees with another?

The fact that the host said "reward" does not entitle you to money, or anything else, from her or her station. She didn't make a promise to you. Even she did, promises to make a gift -- a transfer that isn't legally required -- are not enforceable.

You didn't agree to do anything in return, so you can't claim this was a contract -- and even if you could, the contract would be void because it didn't specify a dollar amount.

Answered on 9/15/06, 6:54 pm

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