Small claims court vs report atv stolen

[jbpa07]

I let my friend borrow my atv to use for some farm work. We have a handwritten agreement signed by both of us stating that he would pay a monthly amount to use the atv. It also stated that at any time I wanted the atv back, it would be return in its original condition. My friend has not been paying the monthly payment and he will not return the atv to me. I have set up times for him to return it to me and he does not show. What is the best way to handle this? Any help would be appreciated.

 

[CdwJava]

Depending on the laws in your state, you might be able to report it as an embezzled vehicle or property if he has failed to return it at the specific time.

If you wish to have him arrested, you can report it to the police and see what they have to say. If you wish to compel its return or compensation than a small claims action would likely be your best bet.

- Carl

 

[jbpa07]

Thanks for the response.

If I were to try to contact a lawyer in town to help me out, what kind of law should they specialize in?

 

[CdwJava]

If you are looking at a small claims action, then you do not need an attorney - in fact, you may not be allowed to even use one there. I seriously doubt the value of the ATV will be higher than the small claims threshold.

- Carl