Can you sue someone who promised you money?

Asked by: Dr. Celestino Murazik DVM  |  Last update: May 6, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (18 votes)

The short answer is yes, you may have a claim for someone who broke a promise to you. Now, depending on the nature of that promise, we may have different types of the cause of action that could be brought. The most common that I see is a breach of contract.

Can you sue someone based on a promise?

Absent a valid contract, a broken promise does not typically provide grounds for a lawsuit. However, under certain circumstances, the legal doctrine of detrimental reliance may provide a remedy. Detrimental reliance occurs when a party is reasonably induced to rely on a promise made by another party.

Can someone sue you for money they gifted you?

Yes, it is possible for someone to sue you if they claim that gifted money was actually a loan. Whether they succeed in their lawsuit would depend on the evidence and agreements in place at the time of the transfer.

Can you sue someone for not returning borrowed money?

Yes, you can sue, however you would need to be able to prove that you loaned the money (it was not a gift). You may have to decide that this is a lesson learned. Never loan money that you can't afford to lose, and have a signed contract stating the amount of the loan and how/when it is to be repaid.

What to do when someone owes you money and ignores you?

Even if the debtor doesn't answer you, you should ask them multiple times for the exact dollar amount they owe. It is a good idea to tell them you will pursue legal action as a next step. You can also consider professional collection agency services that work to retrieve personal loans.

HOW TO SUE A COMPANY OR AN INDIVIDUAL? Watch this before you file a lawsuit.⚖️

30 related questions found

Can you go to the police if someone owes you money?

It is a civil matter, not criminal, so the police are not going to get involved. You have to sue and go after her and get a judgment. If she does not pay, you can then enforce it and go after money or assets.

Is it worth suing someone with no money?

Essentially, you might think suing someone with no money is futile, but that's not the case. The law protects your rights and allows you to seek compensation if someone causes you harm or loss, regardless of their financial status.

Can you sue someone for not giving you money they promised?

You both make a verbal agreement that your friend will pay you within 6 months. 6 months go by and your friend refuses to pay you. You can sue your friend for breach of contract because they did not do what you both agreed.

Is it a crime to not pay someone back?

Of course, it is against the law, not to repay, what was borrowed amount of money. If it will be from your bank, credit cards, and private loan. If is not gift, borrowed money, must be payd back, according to agreement between borrower, and other party.

How much does a lawyer cost to sue someone?

Hourly basis: A lawyer who works with you on an hourly basis will charge you for each hour of the time they give you. Hourly rates will vary depending on the layer and your case but can range anywhere from $199 to $295 per hour.

Can someone sue you for not giving a gift back?

In general, the law regarding gifts is that a gift becomes the property of the recipient once it is given to him/her. If the relationship ends, the gift doesn't automatically become a loan that has to be returned or paid back.

How to prove you gave someone money?

Every case is different, but here are some potential ways to prove you paid for something with cash:
  1. Save Receipts. This seems like a no-brainer... and it is. ...
  2. Cashier's Checks or Money Orders. ...
  3. Bank Statements and ATM Receipts. ...
  4. Find a Witness.

What happens if you sue someone and they can't pay?

The California statute of limitations for filing a judgment is ten years. If the debtor cannot pay or complete payment within this time, you must renew the judgment. The judgment must continue to be renewed to ensure the debtor pays the full amount.

Do promises hold up in court?

Contrary to what most believe, an informal exchange of promises can still be binding and legally as valid as a written contract.

Can you sue for false promises?

As a California employee, you have rights. If your employer has made false promises, you may be able to sue them and seek compensation.

Can a promise be taken back?

In a professional context, breaking a promise can impact your reputation and relationships. It is important to address the situation quickly and with transparency. Communicate the reason for the change as soon as possible. Apologize sincerely and take responsibility for the impact.

How do I get money back from someone who refuses to pay?

You can:
  1. File a civil case to get your money or property back. The court that hears the case will depend on the amount involved. ...
  2. File a civil case in rent court. ...
  3. File criminal charges. ...
  4. Once a court rules in your favor, you will have a judgment stating that the other person owes you money.

Can you go to jail for not paying money back?

You cannot be arrested or sentenced to prison for not paying off debt such as student loans, credit cards, personal loans, car loans, home loans or medical bills. A debt collector can, however, file a lawsuit against you in state civil court to collect money that you owe.

What happens if a friend borrows money and doesn't pay back?

If you can't resolve the loan dispute on your own, consider legal action. Unfortunately, that's not a reality for everyone. When clear, consistent payment reminders and communication don't work, lenders may consider legal action to collect an unpaid loan. Seek legal advice before proceeding with any legal action.

Can you sue if someone breaks a promise?

Any legally enforceable promise can be sued on it. Contracts require an offer and an acceptance, this is a showing that both parties intended to be bound, and they include the terms of the agreement (like, “I do the described work and you pay me the described amount”).

Can I sue someone for never paying me back?

Yes, if you lent someone money and they never paid you back you can sue for the money they owe you. Additionally, you do not need a contract to sue someone for money owed, however, if there is a contract or some type of written agreement or evidence of an agreement this will be useful in court.

Is it worth going to small claims court for $500?

Conclusion: Going to small claims court may be worth it for $500, but it will determine how you weigh your costs versus benefits. At a minimum, it is worth it to send a demand letter.

How much money is enough to sue?

In general, claims are limited to disputes up to $5,000. However, natural persons (individuals) can claim up to $10,000. Corporations, partnerships, unincorporated associations, governmental bodies, and other legal entities cannot claim more than $5,000.

What happens if you ignore someone suing you?

If you don't file an Answer, the plaintiff can file a “Motion for Default,” asking for an automatic win. The court usually grants the Motion for Default because you haven't officially acknowledged the lawsuit. The court enters a default judgment, essentially ruling in favor of the plaintiff without your participation.

What is the least you can sue someone for?

While most courts don't have a strict minimum amount you can sue for, the practical minimum is usually determined by the small claims court filing fee, which can range from around $25 to $50, meaning you would need to be suing for at least that amount to make it worthwhile to file a lawsuit; however, the maximum amount ...