Legal Question in Business Law in Missouri

video rental laws

I recently recieved a letter from my local court house telling me I had to appear in court because I forgot to turn in a dvd I rented. The company that I rented it from never notified me that it was late. Thay said they tried to call, but my number was changed. They never tried to contact me by mail. Is there a law governing how much they can charge me for late fee's since I have returned the DVD to them? They are asking for over $600 in late fee's plus the movie back. I know that the movie is not worth $600. DO I have to pay this?


Asked on 10/04/01, 5:47 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Re: video rental laws

I can't tell you if you have to pay it or not, but I can tell you that you absolutely must take care of the court date or else the video store will take a judgment against you for everything they're asking for plus court costs! Then, they would be able to garnish you bank account, your wages, your income tax refund, or whatever to collect their judgment. If you go to court on your own, the store or its attorney will try to talk you into signing a "Consent Judgment". DON'T DO IT!! This will be entered on your credit report and will hurt you. If you hire your own attorney it may be possible for him or her to work out a deal with the video store that will save you more money than your attorney costs. If you would like a free telephone consultation, please feel free to call me at 314-727-2822. Thanks.

Read more
Answered on 11/21/01, 10:47 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Business Law questions and answers in Missouri