Legal Question in Consumer Law in Illinois

Law for minor seeking veterinarian help

My 16 y/o daughter and her friend (15 y/o) found a cat that had been seen for 2 weeks, and looked ill. They decided to take it to a local vet. clinic, to ask what to do with it. They wanted to run some tests, which they did, and found out the cat had feline aids. They advised euthenasia, which is what happened. My daughter calls me and lets me know what happened, and that they need a credit card # to pay the $174.00 bill. I let them know I never authorized this, and since my girl is a minor, I don't feel obligated to pay. Now, they have sent me 2 bills, which I cannot afford, as I am on S.S. disability. Am I legally obligated to pay this bill? I don't even know how they got my address, as my girl says she never gave it to them, and I am unlisted. Please help!!


Asked on 11/07/04, 2:10 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Thomas Moens Moens Law Offices, Chartered

Re: Law for minor seeking veterinarian help

Generally, contracts entered into by minors can be avoided. And, under the facts you present, I don't believe you are personally responsible for the bill at all. On the other hand, the vet did perform services for which he or she is entitled to be compensated. On the other, other hand, your daughter was trying to do the right thing, and should be commended. I would ask if the vet disclosed what the charges would be upfront--before services were rendered. Your daughter might have been wholly unaware that there would be a bill involved until after the fact. I would suggest calling the vet, telling him/her that you're not legally responsible for this debt, and you'd like to know if he/she has any suggestions. I'd also ask what your daughter should do the next time she happens upon an animal in need.

Read more
Answered on 11/08/04, 2:45 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Consumer Law questions and answers in Illinois