Someone who was my friend has broken some things of mine. I confronted them once they were sober to ask to pay for the damages. They told me they would not pay. These items include:
Car lighter: which cost me $180 to get to stop lighting on fire, it still is not fixed completely.
Space heater: unsure of the price as it was a present, but these type run around $100
Patio chair: again unsure of the price.
A pair of dumbbells: these are still in tact, but he will not return them since I asked him to pay for the other damages, around $40
Couch cushion: I got the couch for free, but he entered my garage without permission and put a burn in it.
My question is, do I have any legal way to get compensation for these broken items? It doesn't add up to enough for me to pay a lawyer, but I am wondering since he is refusing to pay without legal action can I hold him liable for the lawyer and court costs?
Probably not. You need to be able to prove that the person damaged the items and the value of the items. If you can prove that, file something in small claims court. Good luck.
Consumers can use this platform to pose legal questions to real lawyers and receive free insights.
Participating legal professionals get the opportunity to speak directly with people who may need their services, as well as enhance their standing in the Lawyers.com community.