They won't give me my money back?

Question

Before school started, my son was on a traveling all-star baseball team. He was trying out for the highschool team, but I was not sure if he was going to make it. I sent $700 in to his traveling team, to assure his spot. He made the high school team and was not able to participate in travel ball anymore. I requested the whole deposit back (and if not the whole deposit, at least SOME) ...and the baseball organization refuses to give it back, stating it is in their terms. I never signed any paperwork or was aware that any deposit is nonrefundable. If it was $20-100 I would understand, but refusing to return $700 is unheard of. Are there any suggestions out there on how I can proceed next?

Answer 1

Ask to see their written terms.*

Answer 2

If you never saw or signed any paperwork then you can sue for return of your entire deposit (in small claims court), as they have the burden of proving it was non-refundable and that you agreed to those terms.



Write them a nice letter, pointing out their mistake in not immediately refunding your money, and notifying them of your intent to proceed with your legal remedies at law.



Second, if they do not respond to your letter demanding your money back, prior to filing your claim in court, call the local TV stations with the story of how the travelling team is taking advantage of you.



Third, if still no luck, sue them for return of the money, the expenses of the court and attorney fees (if any), and punitive damages for fraud.



Fourth, don't give people that kind of money without THEM first signing an agreement to return it to you upon any of your list of stated events.

Answer 3

If it was me, I'd put my case in writing. Outline all the facts in a succinct and clearcut manner. Send it to the person in charge, indicating of course that you were never presented with the terms, nor signed off on any agreement. It's important that you cc the right people -- including any consumer advocate and/or appropriate media people in your area.



Nobody wants bad press. I bet you get results, without having to sue.



Best of luck.