auto repair shop liability

[magpie43]

Our car was at a repair shop for over six weeks being repaired. When we got it back, the stereo was stripped out of the car. There was no sign of forced entry indicating it was left open or an inside job. The owner told us he wasn't liable because at the bottom of his receipt it says he's not. We didn't receive the receipt until the day we picked up the car nor did we sign any work order with this information on it in advance. There are no signs posted on the premises either. Is he liable for the damage? We are preparing a small claims suit and want to know what our chances are.

 

[JETX]

Based solely on your post, I would assume that your chances are pretty good. However, the final outcome will be determined by your ability to convince a court that they are responsible, and their ability to defend that claim.