On a verbal contract (I know it's stupid) I took a copywriting project for a client. I have now spent WAY over the time I bid and am no closer to an end because the client keeps kicking back all my ideas with a "no" but no help in what he DOES want. I told him I was spending too much time on this and I needed guidance and now he wants his money back. Do I have to refund it?
2007-11-18 18:34:47 · 5 answers · asked by . 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
You have two options:
1. stop asking him for his opinion on your work, and prepare something that you think is adequate and give it to him. If he isn't satisfied, it's his problem. Under the contract, you have fulfilled your obligations.
2. give him a refund of part of his money, but withhold what you think is fair compensation for the amount of work you have done thus far.
2007-11-18 18:59:50 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Technically, yes. You had a "verbal" contract with someone and also a bid. When you bid on a job, it states you are to do something for X amount of dollars within an X amount of time. Although frustrating with all the "NO" answers and no help, you still stated in the bid that you could have this project done.
Again, it would depend on what a court states as legal. they may say that a "verbal" contract is no good and he's out of luck. Other judges may side with him. It's a touch and go situation, I would check with an attorney...and from this point forward, let this be a lesson learned get a written contract as well as make sure you have everything your client wants so you don't have to go through this mess again. GOOD LUCK!
2007-11-19 05:12:13 · answer #2 · answered by lilbreeze2000 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Legally, I'm no lawyer and verbal is shaky. Ethically, if you have done what you say you have and he is providing no guidance, it's not your fault that he can't communicate. You have provided a service and should be compensated. As the client I would be ticked, but you have to pay people for the work they do. If he says he will ruin your reputation then calmly tell him you aren't a mind reader and had tried to provide the service according to the best of your ability based on the lack of information you received. You may, at that point have to give a refund to save your rep, but you need to be paid for services secured, too.
2007-11-19 02:51:44 · answer #3 · answered by bellgoddess1 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You may want to consider refunding a portion to show good faith. Since you've already spent a lot of time and effort on the project, the client should be billed for that. Take into consideration your client's history and future business. If this was an isolated occurence that won't affect their consistent business with you, then I would refund them.
2007-11-19 02:48:43 · answer #4 · answered by Bink 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the language of the contract, but since it's a verbal contract there's no proof of what the language says.
Best bet is probably a refund.
Richard
2007-11-19 02:38:09 · answer #5 · answered by rickinnocal 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋