Legal Question in Legal Ethics in California

I took my car to a Tint Shop 2 months ago, the receptionist informs me the employee had damaged the door panel in order to get the windows tinted. She informs the manager and she tells me they will replace the damages at no cost. At this point I wasn't bothered and forgot to get the damages written on paper and instead trusted the company.

Two weeks has passed and no word, I call and leave a message. Again, within a month I leave another message. Luckily I called a few days ago and spoke to the manager and he acknowledges and agrees to fix the situation by informing me to go to my local car shops and look for estimates. I offered him 3 quotes and he said ok and will send a check to my address but the next day he withdraws and offers to find me a used door panel. I decline but he continues to go on finding a used piece.

At this point I am unsatisfied and feel that he is ripping me off. I am considering contacting the BBB, Consumer Affairs in CA and my credit card about my concerns. What can I do at this point to force the manager to listen? I may consider going to court for the damages.


Asked on 8/24/11, 6:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Don't Do Stuff Verbally. Write letters, certified mail return receipt. Document everything. All you have so far is phone calls. Your letter should be something like, "This will confirm our conversation of yada yada that my door panel was damaged on yada yada yada and you agreed to pay for the damage." Get written damage estimates. Then write a demand letter and go to small claims court if you have to. But don't go to court and tell the judge that you had some verbal agreement without supporting documentation. Disputing your credit card charge is an option.

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Answered on 8/24/11, 7:04 pm


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