What legal rights (financially) do I have as an artist?

Question

I know I should get deposit before I start painting, but the lady who wanted me to paint a portrait was in a hurry to have the painting as a Christmas gift last year. She promised me orally that she would send me some money. I have called her once right after I sent her the painting, and she assured me to send me money soon. Five months ago, I wrote her that I would add monthly interest rate to the original price. She called me to assure me again for sending me money. It has been 8 months without any payment at all since the date I mailed the painting to her.

What legal rights do I have as an artist to deal with customers like her? What can I do to get my payment from her? Thanks

Answer 1

Your best bet is to consult a lawyer.

I know all my legal experience comes either from books or Judge Judy, so I'm not qualified to comment, and I don't know if anyone else on Y! A is going to be either. If they were though, they'd probably be hanging out in the Legal section, you might try posting over there.

Y!A is great for some things, but sometimes you need the advice of an expert.

Good luck!