Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Massachusetts

Hello and thanks for this site. I agreed to loan a former friend money for his business. I have a letter that he and I signed and that my wife witnessed that stated that he would pay me back. He has not paid the money back and I'm wondering what I can do to make him sign or what steps I can take that will force him to pay me back.

Thanks for any help and it is appreciated,

Frank B.

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Asked on 9/14/10, 12:15 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

William Harrington Law Office of William T. Harrington

It would be better if I knew the amount of the loan and had the signed letter to look at. You should send him a formal written demand that the money be paid. You may also want to speak to him before to see if he is willing and able to pay. Hopefully, the letter that he signed provides for interest and the recovery of collection costs, including counsel fees. If he does not pay according to the agreement, you may bring suit. What court you should bring it in depends on the amount outstanding.

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Answered on 9/19/10, 1:11 pm
Christopher Vaughn-Martel Charles River Law Partners, LLC

I agree with the previous attorney that you should prepare and send a formal written demand, and include a deadline. If you do not get a response or payment by your deadline, file suit in court. Which court you file in, and where, depends on the amount of money in question and some other important facts about the parties and the agreement.

If you would like to utilize the services of an attorney to collect on your loan, please feel free to contact my office. Depending upon the amount in question, our offices may represent you on a contingent basis, meaning you do not pay anything until and unless you get paid.

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Answered on 9/20/10, 7:58 am


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