Private members-only forum

PSA: client won't pay for completed work

Started by this_cant_be_right_20 · Nov 16, 2025 · 1,103 views · 11 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
TC
this_cant_be_right_20 OP

Looking for advice on a legal issue. Here's what happened.

client won't pay for completed work. I've been dealing with this for about 13 months now and the situation isn't improving.

The contract was signed 20 months ago. I have a copy of the original agreement. The total amount in dispute is approximately $9,000.

Do I have a strong case? What should my next steps be?

OS
omar_s_32

I work in this industry and unfortunately this is very common. The good news is that when people actually push back with legal representation, companies usually settle.

RL
rebecca_l_2 Attorney

I practice in this area. Here's my take on the legal issues.

This is a common situation and the law is fairly clear. Under the implied covenant of good faith, commercially reasonable.

I'd recommend documenting everything in writing from this point forward. Keep copies of all communications.

ST
startuplife_13

Been there. Here's what I learned.

I ended up escalating to a supervisor/manager, which cost about $1-3 but saved me a lot more in the long run honestly.

NA
nadiya_a_28

NAL, but from what I've read, you should file a complaint. But honestly you should verify this with someone who knows your state's laws.

FP
fine_print_reader_9

I went through almost the exact same thing.

I ended up filing with the appropriate government agency, which cost about $4-8 but saved me a lot more in the long run smh.

NA
not_a_bot_i_swear_34

Have you tried reaching out to your state's attorney general? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

TM
trying_my_best_29

NAL, but from what I've read from what I've heard, you should send a written demand. Of course the details matter a lot here.

NJ
nicole.j_34

This happened to me too. Have you tried filing a complaint with the relevant agency? In my case they investigated and it got resolved without needing a lawyer.

CA
closing_arguments_18

NAL, but from what I've read, you should document everything. Every situation is different so YMMV.

EA
exhibit_a_hole_10

I've dealt with this before.

I ended up hiring an attorney to send the initial letter, which cost about $2-4 but saved me a lot more in the long run.

JC
jchen92_13

I've dealt with this before.

The thing that gets people is filing with the appropriate government agency. I'd recommend gathering evidence first instead.