QUESTION
Am I under any legal obligation to refund a dissatisfied client?
Asked on May 15th, 2016 on Contracts - Massachusetts
More details to this question:
I have a spa, in which a nurse, who has her own separate business, utilizes a room in my facility twice a month. The nurse injected dermal fillers into someone who is dissatisfied with the results and wants a refund. This individual only came in for this service, never for any other services. She paid the nurse (her business entity, an LLC) directly. This individual has sent two emails to me and I feel she is going to be relentless-I.e. Veiled threats regarding making a scene at my business, bad-mouthing online, etc. I have informed this individual verbally and via email to address all her concerns with the nurse's business. I have forwarded all emails to the nurse regarding this matter. This is an $1850.00 Refund she is looking for. What are my legal rights regarding this situation. Do I have the right to call the police if she shows up making a scene, etc? If she makes bad comments naming my business, can I sue for libel/slander-or inform her that I can do so
1 ANSWER
If the person "makes a scene" at your place of business, you can call the police, and they will handle the matter as they deem appropriate. If the person defames your business, you can sue her for defamation. However, everyone has a right to voice their opinion; only an intentional misstatement of fact would be actionable. Thus, for example, "this spa treated me horribly" would not be actionable.
Answered on May 16th, 2016 at 9:08 AM