Legal Question in Civil Rights Law in New York

I was given free coupons by a staff member of a well known franchise. I spent alot of money there and thought these coupons were a token of grattitude.

I was later arrested and charged for possession of forged items. However the girl who gave them to me was never fired or terminated??

I was forced to pay $1500 to the company, and given a misdeameanor, and forced to do community service?

How can this be fair? No wher eon the coupon does it state a value or even say you cant sell or reuse them?

Do I have grounds for a lawsuit? I hope so.

Thanks

RJ


Asked on 12/17/09, 11:29 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Sarah Grosse Sarah Grosse, Esquire

If you were charged under NY law, then this will be governed by NY. However, there is some common law here, and I can give you a few thoughts, as a FL attorney.

It is criminal to use free coupons beyond how they are supposed to be used. It does not have to state on the coupon that forgery will be prosecuted. That's a given.

I was so mad at Office Depot this past week that I was ready to call the CEO or legal department. They have coupons they will not honor. But, ya know, the answer is "tough shit" and move on.

You cannot sue for more than your actual damages.

I hope that helps just a bit.

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Answered on 12/23/09, 4:22 am


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