Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Wisconsin

How can I get this money owed to me?

I owned a business and sold it in Feb 2004. Their were liens against the property because of unpaid sales tax. The buyer witheld the amount of the liens until he recieved proof they liens were paid, then he was to pay me the balance within 30 days. I had the clearance certificate and lien satisfaction sent to him right away in April. He still is not paying. I have emailed and tried to call him. He says get a lawyer. The lawyers I talk to want a 1500 retainer before they will talk to me. I dont have that!! What else can I do. It's too much for small claims court like $9,000!


Asked on 1/10/05, 5:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
JAY Nixon nixon law offices

Re: How can I get this money owed to me?

Business litigation is nearly always more complex than first anticipated. The $1,500.00 retainer for starting a lawsuit is therefore probably typical of what most lawyers would charge due to the time which will likely be required. There is nearly always some other grievance which arizes such as a misrepresentation on your part concerning the quality of the assets sold. Many lawyers, however, would quote you a much lower rate for simply sending a demand letter and trying to negotiate a settlement out of court, with the understanding that you will re-negotiate if court becomes necessary. Another possibility for saving money might be a variation on a contingent fee, wherein the lawyer would keep a percentage of what he can recover, plus some smaller non-refundable amount. Good luck!

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Answered on 1/10/05, 10:23 pm


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