Legal Question in Consumer Law in Massachusetts

Invoicing

I went to Court in may 2005 and my attorney never sent me a bill. I made over $1,000 in good faith payments and requested a bill a few times with the check. In Nov 2006 I sent a letter again asking for bill, 5/29/07 she calls me and states been sending bill to wrong address, I gave her right address but I am wondering if I have to pay a bill 2 years old when she never sent me a bill in the 2 years. She had my 3 phone #'s if she sent bills before why didn't she call anytime in 2 years for address or even when I requested bills -- she had checks with address, etc. Do I have to pay something 2 years later. I understand she is having financial trouble now so she is looking for money. is there a statue of limitation on submitting a bill for payment.


Asked on 5/31/07, 9:06 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Craig J. Tiedemann Kajko, Weisman & Colasanti, LLP

Re: Invoicing

You admit that she performed services for you and that you owe her money on the balance due for those services. The money was always due; you simply chose not to pay it (and she was less than diligent in sending you delinquent notices); but its YOUR obligation to pay your bills! The money is still due.

The lawyer was there for you when you needed her help. Now she needs you to pay your long overdue bill, and you admit you owe the money.

The direct answer to your question is 'yes,' there is a statute of limitations in contract actions; and it is 6 years... She can wait another 4 years then sue you and win. Or she can easily sue you now and win, which she will if she needs the funds badly.

Are you really the kind of person who will continue to withhold money you acknowledge is due, especially after you've benefitted from the services?

The lawyer was there for you when you were in a legal jam. Now you want to screw her? Do the right thing. Or, you can rest assured, it will come back to you threefold; one way or another.

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Answered on 5/31/07, 12:35 pm


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