Help ripped off by villa agent

[stevenjack]

I live in the UK and rented a Villa with boat from a NJ woman. Although she rents a number of properties it does not appear to be a company.
Turns out as I called 2 weeks before departing that the boat does not exist. We paid $1100 deposit for boat and house which she now wont return despite the fact she cancelled the booking as she said we were problem people.
Question is can someone from the UK raise a court action in the US ?
Would flights etc, be considered legitimate expenses and awarded as part of any settlement?
Is the limit $3000?
On average how much notice does the court give for you to appear?
Anyone ever heard of a court that would be equipped for a video link?

Thanks all for your advice

Steven & Val Jack
Ayrshire
Scotland

 

[JETX]

Question is can someone from the UK raise a court action in the US ?

Yes.

Would flights etc, be considered legitimate expenses and awarded as part of any settlement?

No.

Is the limit $3000?

Yes. The small claims limit in New Jersey (USA) is $3000US.

On average how much notice does the court give for you to appear?

Depends on the courts caseload.... but usually a couple of weeks. You can reschedule if needed.

Anyone ever heard of a court that would be equipped for a video link?

Rare, but might be possible. Check with the court.

Steven & Val Jack
Ayrshire
Scotland

Your welcome. Love your area!! Been there several times. My ancestry is from Dunfermline. Even a road and a town in East Ayrshire share my family name.