What recourse do I have?

[SoulOfTheFlame]

Hey Guys,

I've recently been moonlighting for a rather dodgey company in the US. I've been working from my office in Canada on their project as an independant contractor. I didn't mind the dodginess because the pay wasn't bad and I could get out of my contract at any time.

However, they had a rather difficult couple of months, and now all of the sudden I get the feeling like they aren't going to honor my contract and pay me. They claim they sent a cheque weeks ago, but it has yet to magically appear, nor have they responded to my request for tracking numbers, wire transfer alternatives, etc.

This week they're no longer answering my calls.

Anyway, should they fail to pay me - what legal recourse, if any, do I have?

As with everything else, CalgaryPuck is full of bright people with a broad field of experience, so I'm hoping someone might have an idea of what to do in this matter.

[Cheese]

Hire an American lawyer...if you have a legally binding contract that outlines your "dodgy" position.
If not...close the door and move on.

[brownie]

Sorry but I'd say you are hooped

[Hack&Lube]

If they go under, you are probably very very very very last on the list of people to recoup debts. If you are even on their lists. Depends on what kind of a paper trail you have and how good a lawyer you get.

You can also threaten them with legal action - that always works.

[ken0042]

The one question I have- how much money are you out? Is it worth the time to get it back?

Yes, obviously you are owed. But there's no point in losing 2 month's pay to get the on emonth they owe you.

[SoulOfTheFlame]

Originally Posted by ken0042

The one question I have- how much money are you out? Is it worth the time to get it back?

Yes, obviously you are owed. But there's no point in losing 2 month's pay to get the on emonth they owe you.

I'm sure it woudln't be worth hiring a lwayer... It's enough that it REALLY sucks for me, but I'm sure the legal fees would be more.

[troutman]

Try first the Lawyer Referral Service at 228-1722, and ask for a consultation with an employment/labor lawyer. You should get the names of three lawyers that have to give you a free consultation.

Your problem has an international dimension, so there will have to be a connection made with a US lawyer eventually.

You might be able to pursue this yourself at some point through a small claims court in the US.

[the_hound]

This sounds like a job for........

JUDGE JUDY ! *Buh buh buuuh*