Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Illinois

bad business practices?

I have a rather simple problem. I am considering filing a complaint on an online company meant for networking females. I signed up to become a member at the lowest costing rate ($118.95). I am a budding entrepreneur and wanted to find a mentor through their program. In early October, I attempted to find a mentor, but there was nobody who specialized in my field (cafe/food business).

I contacted a representative through e-mail requesting to cancel the membership because I could not find what I was looking for. The communication was very poor and after over 2 weeks, I had to call a long distance # to get an answer. I spoke with someone on 10 November in the finance department and was told that I could not get my money back, even though I am poor and could use the money. She offered to email me some people that she thought would be good mentors, though to date I have received no further communication.

What I want to know, is if it is legal for them to deny my refund. There was no mention of their cancellation policy either in the initial signing nor in my welcome packet. Does this not mean that I should be able to get a refund if I am unhappy and they do not officially have a policy? Any advice would b appreciated. Thank you.


Asked on 11/16/08, 10:10 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Motty Stone Law Offices of Motty Stone

Re: bad business practices?

Generally speaking, these services are difficult to to get refunds from. First of all, they make no guarantees when they take your money so its difficult to say they lied to you. Second of all, even if you can prove that they lied, it is difficult to track down someone who can write you a check.

This service seems a bit shady so you will face problems in dealing with them, but the best thing for you to do is be persistent and try to get something out of them. In the mean time, I would encourage you not to let this experience discourage your entrepreneurial spirit and suggest that you try to find mentors through free channels such as your city's Chamber of Commerce, former employers, or possibly through your university or high school alumni programs.

Good luck to you.

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Answered on 11/17/08, 12:14 am


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