Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

I loaned someone, via money gram, $115.00 with a verbal promise (infront of witnesses) that he would give me the money back the very next day using funds from his income tax check coming via H&R Block. Needless to say, the H&R block money never turned up (I was conned!). He said he would take responsibility, again infront of witnesses, but I have yet to see any of the money. A friend told me it is a criminal offense in Pennsylvania (the state I live in) for someone to go back on a verbal agreement and that I can file criminal charges against him.

Would this be considered a criminal offense or would it be a Civil matter (meaning I would have to sue) instead?

Thanks,

Lisa Polidora


Asked on 3/18/10, 5:17 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

What you describe maybe both a crime and a civil matter. That said I doubt that the police are going to do much. So you would have to sue the person you loaned the money to in DJ court. You'll have to pay the filing fee, which if you win will be charged to the defendant. That is it would be added to the $115 should you win.

You would need to have your witnesses testify at the DJ hearing.

{John}

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Answered on 3/23/10, 6:19 am


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