Stolen Vehicle Situation
I recently sold a custom non-registered non-titled expensive recreation vehicle that was later found to be stolen by the buyer. I was given a full bill of sale from the person I made the purchase from (It sounds like they may have been a victim as well) and have been cleared of any wrong doing by the authorities on my part. The buyer is now looking to sue me in a civil court for the full purchase price to recoup his cost since the insurance company has the right to the vehicle since the insurance claim was paid out to the original owner who reported the vehicle stolen. What are my options and what would be the best attorney to represent me? The detective in the case told me it is difficult for the buyer to pursue these sort of cases and get a judgment. Is this true in your opinion? I live in the Phoenix area and may require representation. Thank you for your consideration.
Re: Stolen Vehicle Situation
A thief cannot pass good title, so you are in a tough position. If sued, you will have to cross-claim against the party you purchased from. This is not a personal injury action, your body or person was not injured, but is a contract action.
Beware of well-meaning detectives. They usually know less about the civil law than they think, and are members of the “garage lawyers” club. Garage lawyers are laymen who speculate about the law and pass out free shade-tree advice. Your case is classic, and taught in the first year of law school. Any good attorney with litigation experience could represent you. Good luck. Sorry for your loss and experience. See an attorney right away.
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