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Posted Nov 17th, 2011
I plan to file a "warrant in debt" in the state of Virginia against a local business for stolen
property. Do I need a lawyer to represent me?

Additional Details:
My laptop was stolen after taking it to a local business for repair. The pickup receipt showed a
signature with a scribble on it. However, my drop off receipt clearly showed my name/signature.
The business does not have any security cameras installed in their establishment. I filed a police
report and an investigation was conducted. I was told that there was not enough evidence or
information to hold the business liable. I tried to get reimbursement from their regional and
corporate office with no luck. I had no other option but to file an insurance claim and was paid a
small amount after my deductible was applied. The amount I received from my insurance was not
enough to cover the loss of my property.
Legal Topic Area: Consumer Law in VA

I'm not familiar with this practice, but it appears to be a criminal proceeding, so it seems you could report this and then see what the authorities do. I wouldn't hold out much hope for this. The time to have hired a lawyer would have been when you were asserting your claim against the repair shop. It's not too late to do that, but I can't believe it would be worth it as your damages are likely only the value of a used lap top. I'd use the insurance proceeds to buy a new laptop, stop throwing negative energy at it and consider this a lesson learned.


Answered on Nov 18th, 2011 at 10:19am