Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Michigan

Garnishments and withholding pay check.

My ex-employer took money out of my check for a bill I owed, in my name, that was mailed to the business. I did not authorize this deduction and when I attempted to pick up my final check I was told that they were withholding it untill further notice. Where do I go from here?


Asked on 4/17/01, 3:19 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Regina Mullen Legal Data Services, PLC

Re: Garnishments and withholding pay check.

From what you have written, I would hire a lawyer to explain to the company that they have invaded your privacy by opening mail that belonged to you instead of forwarding it to you. Certainly if the company did not owe the debt, they had NO business paying your bill for you from your wages. That's not their role.

What if you didn't really owe the money and some third party wrongfully benefitted from the payment? They have clearly interfered with your rights to challenge service or the quality of the item you purchased, etc.! I think the goal should be to receive your ENTIRE check: they were not appointed your escrow agent for payment of the debt. From what you've written, there was also no right to withhold your check for any reason. Hire a lawyer to negotiate this, and make them pay the legal bill.

Read more
Answered on 6/17/01, 4:42 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in Michigan