Legal Question in Business Law in New Jersey

Garage owners lien

A customer brought in his vehicle that I had built a truck body for. When he originally contracted me to build the body there was work that was not complete when he picked up the vehicle. He had the vehicle for 2 years and then wanted the other items installed. The uninstalled items were deducted from the original price. When he brought the vehicle back he wanted the unfinished items done and some other repairs made. I gave him a verbal quote and he said fine. I faxed a bill when the job was complete. The price included the cost of the unfinished - now finished work.

The customer wanted the job done for free including the repairs of damage he had caused while he had the truck for 2 years. I have possession of the vehicle and have received a summons. He is siting laws that have to du with fraud of seniors and construction completions. I did not give a written quote - the amount is about $2,500.00. Does this customer have a case for fraud?


Asked on 9/06/02, 10:35 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Glen Chulsky Law Office of Glen H. Chulsky

Re: Garage owners lien

Sounds as if the customer is alleging that you violated the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act and specifically the parts pertaining repairs to autos by mechanics. If he is and you violated it, you may be liable to the customer for triple the amount of his damages and for the customer's attorney's fees. You could be talking about serious exposure for you. You should consult an attorney immediately that is experienced in the area of Consumer Fraud. If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to call me at 973-479-5814. My office is now located in Dover, Morris County, NJ.

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Answered on 9/06/02, 12:29 pm


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