Legal Question in Business Law in Washington

I purchased a half galon of Bryers ice cream about 3 weeks ago. I found a rubber band inside. I still have the origional container and the rubber band. I've contacted Bryers and they are mortified. They want me to send the container and rubber band to them. Do I have a law suit? Should I send them back?


Asked on 6/23/10, 10:09 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Susan Beecher Susan L. Beecher, Atty at Law

In order to have grounds for a suit, you have to show, among other things, that you were damaged by what occurred. Did you become ill? (Be aware that if you claim you became ill, you will make your personal medical records a subject of discovery, you will have to show that you became ill, and that the illness was the direct result of the rubber band being there.)

More likely what happened is that you lost your taste for that container of ice cream. Your damages then are what you paid for that ice cream. I'm not sure the postal service would appreciate your sending the sticky ice cream container through the mail, and even if you washed it out first, the cost of shipping would probably exceed the damages you are likely entitled to, which would be the cost of the ice cream. As a marketing gesture, the manufacturer might give you something more, but I don't think you have a winning lawsuit here.

Read more
Answered on 6/23/10, 1:41 pm
Kevin B. Murphy Franchise Foundations, APC

The other attorney is right on point here. Also a personal consultation is appropriate, given these circumstances. Consult with an attorney in your area for specific advice.

Kevin B. Murphy, B.S., M.B.A., J.D. - Mr. Franchise

Franchise Attorney

Read more
Answered on 6/23/10, 4:00 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Business Law questions and answers in Washington