Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Maryland
Can My Father Sue Me for Help Rendered Without Agreement for Repayment?
I'm a recent college graduate with a manipulative father. He has recently threatened that if I move out and take on debt, he will send me ''a bill for everything I've ever done for you/given you.''
My father helped pay my college tuition. This was done without a verbal or written agreement for repayment of any kind. I accepted his help, but I did not solicit it from him.
Like all fathers, he has passed property onto me in the form of birthday gifts, hand-me-downs, etc.
He is currently allowing me (forcing me, rather) to stay at home and accrue additional savings before moving out. While here, he is paying my cell phone bill and insurance bill (I am currently on his policy, using his vehicle), again without written or verbal agreement for repayment of any kind.
If he were to try to quantify this aid and attempt to sue me for such and such amount, would his case hold water?
As you can tell, I'm trying to get my feet under me and would not be able to afford a protracted legal battle. If he were to press his case, would I be likely to win in a hearing?
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Can My Father Sue Me for Help Rendered Without Agreement for Repayment?
If he wants to sue you then let him. Until you are sued forget the matter. Move on and enjoy the rest of your life. Contact me should you need legal assistance.
Re: Can My Father Sue Me for Help Rendered Without Agreement for Repayment?
You can make a strong argument that what you have received from your father are gifts and not the proceeds of a contract. I see no exchange of consideration based on the facts you have presented. You are an adult. Tell him thanks for everything, give him rd, and tell him as you walk out the door that you are moving out. You can't be forced to stay at home.
Re: Can My Father Sue Me for Help Rendered Without Agreement for Repayment?
Your father's arguments lack even a modicum of creditability. He would need to prove some form of consideration. Maryland statues are clear with respect to the verbal agreements. You have already stated there was no verbal agreement so you have a legitimate defense to any claim he would bring against you. I would not give it a second thought. If you need assistance with representation please give me a call.
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