What are my options if a customer refuses to pay for the goods or services I provided in Georgia?

As a lawyer, if a customer refuses to pay for the goods or services provided in Georgia, there are several options available to you. Below are some of the legal options you may use to recover the payments.

1. Send a Demand Letter: Before escalating the matter to court, it is always recommended to first send a demand letter to the customer. The demand letter should clearly state the amount due, the date on which it was due, and the consequences that the customer will face if he or she does not make the payment. The consequences could include legal action, interest, or additional costs. You may also provide a deadline in your demand letter by which the customer is required to make the payment.
2. File a Lawsuit: If the customer still refuses to pay after receiving the demand letter or fails to respond, you can file a lawsuit against them. You can file a lawsuit in the county where the customer resides or where the transaction took place. You will need to hire an attorney to represent you and file the necessary legal documents. Once you file the lawsuit, the court will schedule a hearing and make a decision based on the evidence presented.
3. Small Claims Court: If the amount due is below $15,000, you can file a claim in small claims court without an attorney. Small claims court proceedings are faster and the fees are lower compared to regular court proceedings.
4. Collections Agency: You can also hire a collection agency to recover the debt. A collection agency works on a commission basis and will take a percentage of the amount recovered. However, before hiring a collection agency, it is important to ensure that they are licensed and reputable.
5. Business Debt Mediation: Georgia offers a free mediation program to resolve disputes between businesses. Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps the parties come to a mutually acceptable agreement.

Limitations or exceptions to the above advice may include situations where the customer is bankrupt or insolvent. In such cases, the legal options available may be different, and it is recommended to seek the advice of a licensed attorney.

In conclusion, it is important to act quickly when a customer refuses to pay for goods or services provided in Georgia. Sending a demand letter, filing a lawsuit, using small claims court, hiring a collections agency or participating in mediation can all be effective means of recovering the debt. An attorney can provide additional guidance and advice based on your specific situation.