Satellite TV out clause? Does it exist?

[sroutlaw]

What is the name of your state? MISSOURI

My inlaws signed a contract for one year of DirectTV here in MO. Two days into it they decided it was a mistake, and under the "friend of a friend told me there was a law against these contracts" they had the satellite turned off within the supposed three day time limit to opt out. They were told by DirectTv that this was fine but they would be billed - my inlaws told the rep this was against the law and the rep responded that they don't discuss legal contract matters. My in laws took this as an admission that they were right, and that they can trash any bills they get from Direct TV. My hunch is that someway, somehow, DIrect TV will get their money - either by enforcing the contractual year of fees OR, if they "law about three days" is in existence, by some fall back method of charging for the satellite and installation (which were free under the terms of the contract).

Would like to know any opinions on what my rather unversed in laws can expect in this matter.

Steph

 

[JETX]

"Would like to know any opinions on what my rather unversed in laws can expect in this matter."
*** Though some states do provide for a 72 hour rescinsion period for SOME contracts, it does not apply in this case.
Simply, they signed the contract and received the benefit of the installation and equipment. DTV will treat them just as they would any other debtor. Including continuing to charge, accrue late fees and penalties and eventually possibly take legal action against them.

 

[sroutlaw]

I kinda figured that would be the case. My FIL is certain this is the iron clad way out of paying anything but....methinks that would be much abused generally if it applied to ALL contracts!
Steph

 

[JETX]

The Missouri AG's office provides an online brochure detailing the cases where state law allows 72 hour cancellation of a contract. It can be found in PDF format at:
http://www.ago.state.mo.us/consumerfraudguide2001.pdf

Additional statutory provisions can be found by reviewing the Missouri state laws at:
http://www.moga.state.mo.us/STATUTES/C407.HTM

 

[sroutlaw]

I read the brochure and it is clear to ME that it doesn't apply to the satellite - since my FIL solicited them and not the other way around. He seems to think since they took his first payment from his credit card, and the satellite contract was signed in his home, that gives him the 72 hour rule on his side. I have a feeling that the fact that HE solicited THEM to come and install the satellite, as well as the fact that it is a monthly billing situation which he agreed to, complicates his idea though. Do you have any thoughts on if he can indeed use the rule as explained in the brochure? BTW this is not a guy who is being scammed, he and MIL just buy lots of stuff and then change their minds, so it isn't as if this keeps them from eating or anything - they just like to have idea that the customer is ALWAYS right. But in my mind if this were true, what stops me from taking free installation free satellite, watching a Tyson fight and then "changing my mind" the day after the fight? Doesn't make much sense.

S

 

[JETX]

"Do you have any thoughts on if he can indeed use the rule as explained in the brochure?"
*** No, he does NOT have the right to cancel this transaction.

 

[HomeGuru]

It appears that in-laws are gaget type people that buy on impulse through fast talking salespeople.