Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in New York

I owe my sister money for repairs she had done on my home a few years ago due to a fire incident. I began paying her back, but had to stop due to financial issues. When I explained the financial situation I was in, she told me not to worry about it. This year, she demanded her money, so I resumed the payments. I requested copies of the receipts, because I have a feeling that the amount my sister claims I owe her is not accurate. To this day, she refuses to send me copies of the receipts. I know when you owe someone it is your duty to pay them back. When I asked my sister for assistance it was a verbal agreement, not a written one. What I want to know is, since she has not produced the copies of the receipts I requested, do I still keep sending her the monthly installments like I have been doing? Also, I would like to seek legal advice pertaining to my situation, and would like to know what type of attorney would handle this. Thanks.


Asked on 10/02/10, 3:33 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Paula McGill Attorney at Law

Stop sending her cash. If you send a money order or check, put in the memo, what you believe is the balance. If you continue to deduct the balance with each money order or check, For instance, (in the memo -- $5000 - $500 payment = New Balance) you don't need a receipt. Also, if you're going to pay her by mail, send the payment by priority mail with delivery confirmation. Keep the receipt from the post office showing you sent the money.

However, if you have cancelled checks or money order receipts from prior payments, you have proof of payment. Otherwise, if she decides to sue, there will be a credibility issue on how much you owe.

Read more
Answered on 10/08/10, 9:09 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Credit, Debt and Collections Law questions and answers in New York