Summary
To address unrecognized condo fees, first request documentation from the condo association and management company. If the fees seem unjust, write a formal dispute letter. Consider mediation if the issue remains unresolved. If necessary, file a claim in Rhode Island Small Claims Court against the responsible party, likely the Condo Association. Certified mail is preferred for legal communications. For legal aid, contact Rhode Island Legal Services or the Rhode Island Bar Associations Volunteer Lawyer Program. Some attorneys may offer payment plans or sliding scale fees.Full Conversation
I have a question about Condo Law
Hello ****, I'd be happy to help with your Condo Law question. Could you please provide more details about your situation?
While selling my condo .. before obtaining 6D received unrecognized fees/fines dated 5 years ago. Never received documentation or notifications about the fees. How and Who should I approach to get docs or reimbursed for those fees. I paid them in advance in order to receive 6D. Now I am going back and pursuing Management and the Association. What would be the steps ? Before going to small claim court
Here are some steps you can take:
*. Request documentation: Contact the condo association and management company to request documentation of the fees.
*. Dispute the fees: If you believe the fees are unjust, write a formal letter disputing them.
*. Mediation: If the dispute isn't resolved, consider mediation before going to court.
*. Small Claims Court: If all else fails, you can take the matter to the Rhode Island Small Claims Court.
Rhode Island Small Claims Court:
Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * Benefit St, Providence, RI *
Website: www.courts.ri.gov
Thank you very much. Does it matter whether Communication is through Email or Certified letters ?
In legal matters, certified mail is often preferred as it provides proof of delivery. However, email can also be used if it's accepted by the other party. Always keep copies of all communications.
Absolutely. Condo Association has NOT been so forth coming or fair ... I am trying to be legally correct. If I go to Small Claim court, who should I file papers against? The Management or the Association ?
In small claims court, you typically file against the party responsible for the dispute. In your case, it could be the Condo Association if they imposed the fees. However, it's best to consult with a local attorney to ensure you're taking the correct legal steps.
I would love to, but Fees are so high and nobody guarantees anything
I understand your concern, ****. In Rhode Island, you may be eligible for free or low-cost legal aid. You can contact Rhode Island Legal Services for assistance.
Rhode Island Legal Services
Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * Pine St #*, Providence, RI *
Website: www.rils.org Thank you
You're welcome, ****. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Good luck with your situation.
Thank you very much. Middle class like myself, who work and pay taxes are NOT Eligible for Free Legal Advice ... its unfair
I understand your frustration, ****. While it's true that some legal aid services have income restrictions, there are other resources available. You might consider contacting a law school clinic in Rhode Island, as they often provide free or low-cost legal services.
Tried nobody picks up the phone ... it is almost impossible
I'm sorry to hear about your difficulties, ****. You might also consider reaching out to the Rhode Island Bar Association's Volunteer Lawyer Program. They offer a reduced fee program for those who don't qualify for free legal services.
Rhode Island Bar Association's Volunteer Lawyer Program
Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * Sharpe Drive, Cranston, RI *
Website: www.ribar.com Thank you very much.... I wish attorneys charge lesser Fees
I understand your concerns, ****. Legal fees can be high. However, some attorneys offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on income. It's worth asking about these options when you contact an attorney.