Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York

I'm going to assume the Chevy Blazer was a used vehicle and had a lot of wear, miles and years on it. If I'm wrong, then ignore the following:

Take what your dad gives you and run! Even if he gives you nothing.

Removing my lawyer "hat" for the moment, I was in the same situation with a family member when I was 17 or so. It's devastating to lose your car. I cried and punched walls and screamed about suing. So, believe me, I understand!

You are too young--as was I-- to understand money. You claim the car was worth at least $400.00. To most adults, $400 is pennies. A couple of good tires will cost you $400! In fact, $400.00 is what a lot of attorneys charge for one hour of work. If you sue your dad, you'll spend a couple of hours in Small Claims Court and you might even have to come back for a second or third court appearance. You could easily end up owing your attorney a thousand or two. And do you REALLY want to sue your dad?

The police are going to have a chuckle when you visit the precinct. They do not have the time to set aside a murder investigation to look into a family dispute over a $400 car.

Without knowing more about the Blazer or your relationship with your family, I can't tell you that my advice is set in stone. Again, the car could be worth more than I know and there might be other factors at play of which I'm not aware. Whatever you do, do not rely solely on my advice. But I suspect I've given you the most accurate answer you'll ever get.

Take whatever you can get from your dad, even if it's nothing. You'll be resentful and pissed-off for a while but everyone finds themselves in that position at some point in life.

I hope this was helpful.

Marshall