Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Pennsylvania

Magistrate Case

Our familly felt cheated by a all-night service contractor. They charged a high service fee, did not fix our problem, and took us to the magistrate quickly for the money. Next day decision. At the hearing, without warning and much help, the attorney we were referred to, said it would cost a great deal to fight this as the service co. attorney said they would appeal if necessary. Our Atty. shunned us into paying the bill without any question. We are to pay him the $ directly in the next 7 days. I walked out as soon as he said of the agreement and i did not sign anything personally. If he comes after me for this money, which i pd more than was bill, towards his useless fees, may i just say i will serve jail time to settle this before i pay another cent? THis state has buisness force, cutthroat attorneys, but no knowledge of ''Principal'' in family matters. Full story behind this would grab your attention, i am sure. Please tell me if i may choose ''Jail Time'' over faceless, pirated, scammed acceptance? Or what would you recommend. Just pay all swindlers and bend over? Not a chance. I have made a claim and lack of atty. help, despite taking the money, is just another PA sick abusive indifference. I can give further details, if need be


Asked on 10/11/07, 6:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Richard Teitell Richard K. Teitell, Esquire, P.C.

Re: Magistrate Case

You can't go to jail for owing money- there's no debtor's prison anymore. If a judgment is against you the plaintiff can try to sell your assets to collect the amount owed, with certain exceptions. You can certainly consult another attorney to get an opinion on your chances of a successful defense of the claim being made against you, & any other issues involved in your case. I'm a little confused on the facts, but do you want to pay, for example, $2500 in attorney fees to fight a $1500 bill, where you may end up paying the atty fees & the bill? Good luck!!

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Answered on 10/12/07, 7:07 am


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