Legal Question in Civil Litigation in New York

hiring a contractor

I hired a contractor the 1st part of June and gave him a deposit of $5,000. Work was to begin the second week of July. Work hasn't started and he doesn't answer my phone calls. How do I get my deposit back??


Asked on 8/26/08, 7:56 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Anthony Colleluori The Law Offices of Anthony J. Colleluori & Associates PLLC

Re: hiring a contractor

You should go immediately to the Consumer affairs commission and the District Attorney's fraud bureau. It sounds like you have been a victim of a fraud or theft. The faster you act the better chance you have of getting some of your money back.

If the DA thinks a crime has been committed you will also be able to avail yourself of Crime Victim's Compensation funds from the state.

Good Luck

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Answered on 8/26/08, 10:53 pm
Scott Levinson Korybski & Levinson

Re: hiring a contractor

You can possibly file suit against the contractor to recover the $5000. Before doing so, however, I am assuming there was a written agreement and that should be reviewed to see if it sets out any limits or parameters on how disputes are to be resolved. Please feel free to contact me with any further questions.

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Answered on 8/27/08, 8:57 am
Marshall Isaacs Marshall R. Isaacs, Attorney At Law

Re: hiring a contractor

If you live in one of the five boroughs of New York City, file a Complaint with the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs and ask for restitution.

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Answered on 8/26/08, 8:01 pm


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