Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

A few months back, I wrote a sizeable check to my cousin in another state; (he: Colorado, me

; California) he now will not answer the phone or return any of my calls. The check was an understood loan to buy steer to stud out on his cattle ranch. The only note of record is the cashed and returned check; no contract or promissory note has been written/signed as yet... is this still binding;do I have legal recourse available?


Asked on 5/09/12, 5:11 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Roy Kohler Law Offices of Roy Kohler

Yes, you have recourse available to you. You will likely claim an oral contract and its subsequsnt breach.

These can be tough cases - a he said, he said conflict. Your basic argument is that the check issued to your cousin was based on business motives only and intended as a gift.

You may need to contact an attorney. Some may be willing to take the case on a contingency fee basis.

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Answered on 5/09/12, 5:22 pm
Anthony Roach Law Office of Anthony A. Roach

I suggest you speak to an attorney at length, at least to get some consultation. It is not clear from your post what the full terms of the contract were, and you may or may not have a statute of frauds problem. Additionally, you may also have some issues with jurisdiction and choice of law, such as whether Colorado or California's law applies.

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Answered on 5/10/12, 9:47 am
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Sure. You now get to try to enforce an oral contract, evidenced only by the cashed check and 'your word' that this was a loan and not a gift. You'll probably have to sue him in his state, making it inconvenient for you to go to court for hearing[s]. If that state has a small claims court money limit high enough to cover your check, you won't need an attorney. If you have to file in their Superior Court, you will need an attorney. Good luck. Next time, properly document your transactions. Phone calls are of absolutely no value, as your version of the conversations are not admissible in court. Now, write him a detailed letter laying out your version of the transaction in detail, and demanding whatever you want him to do, on the threat of lawsuit.

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Answered on 5/10/12, 10:22 am


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