Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

I had signed Private school admission papers for my daughter, one of which was stating that I would be responsible for the entire school year fees, if I discontinue in the middle of the school year. I have paid $400.00 as admission fees too.

I have now decided to have my daugther go to a good Public School. I sent a letter to the Private school about the change. Now they want me to pay the entire school year fees in the next 15 days, else they would refer to Collection Agency.

Please advice if this is something I can contest. There might be many reasons for not wanting to go the school though I had paid the admission fee and signed the papers.

Thanks you very much for your help and direction.


Asked on 9/04/10, 8:13 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Without knowing more about what the papers say, there is no way to know whether the clause you describe is part of a valid contract. Even if it is, you haven't given us enough facts to know whether that clause has taken effect yet.

Also, though you say there "might be" reasons for your decision, you don't say what your reasons actually are. Depending upon your reasons, the school may or may not be able to make you pay even if you do have a valid contract.

You should go over these papers with a lawyer in your area to learn more about your rights and obligations.

Finally, even if the school is on solid legal ground, you may be able to negotiate a settlement for less than it is demanding. A lawyer will probably be able to negotiate a better deal for you than you could on your own.

Good luck.

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Answered on 9/09/10, 8:24 pm


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