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GeorgiaPayment DisputesRecovery Options

Im just a small self employed person who was hired to paint trim on a home and to reglaze any falling out glaze but after pressure washing most all glaze fell out causing several more hours of work in which i did not put down on original contract. Did it any how to do whats right. Then today customer was complaining about over spray on his shutters told him no worries I would clean them and to check job when I say its done and completed. He then said no i want all my shutters taken down and painted. I told him if he paid to have me take them down and paint them I would but if not I would clean them on the wall he then got a loud and screaming telling me i better do what he say or he would do something to me and end up going to prison for hurting me and then he shoved me back against my car said i better do what he tells me or else. I acted as though I was gonna do his shutters so he would not touch me again or threaten me. Soon as he left i packed up my tools and got out of there in fear of my life

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Mar 20, 2020
If you've gone unpaid for your work, then there are likely a number of potential options for recovering payment. If you're wondering about options for holding the owner accountable for their improper interactions, then it's possible that assault or battery charges could be filed. I'll be the first to admit that sort of thing isn't my forte, though, so if you'd like to look into those options, it might be helpful to reach out to a local Georgia attorney for advice on whether civil or criminal action might be appropriate. As far as payment goes - let's look at a few different recovery tools that might help. And, keep in mind that if you're worried about physical retaliation for potential claims, options like filing a restraining order might help to limit the danger there.

Payment recovery tools

There are a number of potential options for getting paid, so let's break some down topic by topic.

Invoice reminders

Sending something as simple as an invoice reminder can lead to payment. Reminders can prod customers into doing the right thing and paying what's owed. Granted, if there's a full-blown dispute at hand, simple reminders might not be all that effective.

Demand letters

Escalating things with a demand letter can also lead to payment. Demand letters threaten serious legal action if payment isn't made. And, if the customer knows that nonpayment isn't an option, it might be easier to get paid.

Notice of Intent to Lien

Finally, threatening to pursue a mechanics lien filing might be yet another option for escalating the dispute. Mechanics liens cause serious headaches for homeowners, so the threat of lien can be effective too. So, sending a Notice of Intent to Lien is yet another strong option.

Pursuing a mechanics lien

Actually pursuing a mechanics lien filing could be an option as well. Though, mechanics liens are generally the nuclear option. For more information on Georgia lien right and filing a mechanics lien there: (1) Georgia Mechanics Lien Guide and FAQs; and (2) How to File a Georgia Mechanics Lien – Step by Step Guide to Get You Paid.

Other legal claims

Finally, options like making a claim for breach of contract or claim under Georgia's prompt payment laws could be effective too. Though, before pursuing legal claims, it'd probably be smart to consult with a local Georgia construction attorney first.
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