Michael L Coates Sr's Answers

Does a business have to tell you how much it's services will cost before you agree to the work?

If they didn't have you sign an agreement, it will be very difficult for them to recover from you. They could prevail in court, and they might assert they did tell you, but any reputable company will have you sign something right up front even upon arrival as to what you are agreeing to. Because nothing was signed, there will be no ability for either side to recover attorney's fees (usualy an attorney's fee provision would be in most any agreement), so, them chasing $150 is unlikely. If they...

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We signed a contract for a website with a phonebook co. additional items were added in a sneaky way doubling the contract amt.

I have found that most of these types of problems are easily solved with a mere phone call or email to the person in charge at the other company. When you are getting the run-a-round from lower level personnel, ask to speak with the supervisor and continue up the chain until you get the response you are looking for. If you paid by credit card, you may want to explore disputing that payment with your credit card company as well. You may want to gather up the emails or other writings involving...

Non-disclosure, non-compete agreement, graphic designer

These matters are governed mostly by state law so you need to consult a local attorney in New York. With that said, non-competes are often very difficult to the employer to enforce, and where enforceable, usually involve their existing clients (who may be deemed as part of "trade secrets") and non-solicitation wording. It appears that it is the non-disclosure that is most at issue in your matter. The wording of that provision in your agreement should be looked at carefully, as the usual...