Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Virginia
Warrant in Dept for Foreign National
My mother in law broke her hip a few years ago when she visited the states. She lives in another country. We just had posted a Warrant in Debt notice on our front door. Am I responsible for anything here?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Warrant in Dept for Foreign National
No, you are not responsible for her debt, unless you agreed to that. You don't say who was sued (you or her or others) or that this was for medical care, though that is implied. Aside from the legal issues, the moral issue is "should she pay the bill?" and the answer is likely, yes. People that don't or won't pay their bills cause life to be more expensive for everyone else and that is clearly wrong.
Re: Warrant in Dept for Foreign National
Morally, perhaps, but legally NO.
Unless you signed something when she went in for legal care guaranteeing her debt.
If they sued her, simply mail a notice to the Court AND the attorney -- list the case number and party names shown on the Warrant in Debt -- informing them that she does not live at that address (that is important) and furthermore not in the country.
If they sued you, that will depend upon whether you signed anything promising to guarantee her debts.
Unless you promised to pay, then you are not responsible for her debts.
If you make any payments voluntarily, be careful not to make any promises to pay any more. Your promise to make a further payment could become binding on you.