What can I do legally to a friend of a friend who returned items damaged? Or stole them?
<p>I'm leaving some things (a suitcase and a computer) with a friend of a friend for a month, so I don't really know the person too well.</p>

<p>I have some sketchy feelings about leaving my stuff with them but there isn't really a choice (can't leave it at home and no storage facility nearby, and can't take it with me). </p>

<p>We're going to write a contract, but I'm just curious about what I can really do legally if he claims he never gave me something (like the computer) or I found out something I kept with him ended up damaged.</p>

<p>Is there something in the contract we can formulate so he's held responsible? What if he refuses to pay for theft/damages?</p>

<p>The best thing to do is don't put yourself and your property into a sketchy position; find a legitimate ministorage business.</p>

<p>But failing that, have a clear, written contract with the friend of a friend for payment for services rendered, i.e. money for storage and safety of your property.</p>

<blockquote>
  <p><em>Is there something in the contract we can formulate so he's held responsible?</em></p>
</blockquote>

<p>Write that he is responsible for the security of your property for the duration into the contract.</p>

<blockquote>
  <p><em>What if he refuses to pay for theft/damages?</em></p>
</blockquote>

<p>Outright theft means filing a complaint with the police; but the local attorney may not prosecute for small amounts of property; in that case, you could go to small claims court (see below).</p>

<p>For property damage, your recourse is civil court, which probably means small claims court, depending on your jurisdiction. Google "small claims court" and your city/county to learn more about how to file a lawsuit. if you have a clear contract, evidence that you placed the property with the friend of a friend for safe storage, etc., you should prevail. Getting a monetary settlement from the person could be another matter.</p>

contract-law legal-terms