Legal Question in Technology Law in Massachusetts

satellite programming

I received a letter from Direct TV concerning the purchase of a card reader I bought two or three years ago. It was not illegal to possess such devices at the time I bought it. It was for my own personal use and no information gained from it was sold or transferred to anyone. Direct TV acquired my name from the vender�s business records and is threatening to bring suit against me under U.S.C. $ 2512(1)(B). They are offering to forego litigation if I surrender this device, execute a written statement, and pay a monetary sum. However, I am physically handicapped and live on a fixed disability income and can not pay their fee (I assume it will be around $3,000 - $10,000). They are requesting a response to their letter by March 7, 2003. My question is how should I handle this? If I respond to them will that not be an admission of an unlawful act?


Asked on 2/26/03, 1:14 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: satellite programming

First you must realize that the information you provide on this website is not privileged nor secure. We strongly advise that you do not go into details in this area in the public forum.

Secondly, understand that there are possible criminal penalities associated with this topic, and you should protect yourself at all times from making any statement which could be construed as an admission which could be used in a criminal prosecution.

Thirdly, while it is possible to settle this matter in a way which does not cause you undue difficulty or expense, that is best done by contacting an attorney in your town who can handle the details for you. Trying to resolve your situation in this forum is neither secure nor wise.

Call a local lawyer. Get a reference from your local bar association if your don't know one. Get it for an initial consultation/case evaulation. They are usually done at no cost - ask before you go.

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Answered on 2/26/03, 2:00 pm


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