Criminal or Civil Matter - Money Paid, No Service Received

[MarkN]

I paid a graphic designer £400 to carry out some work for me. As soon as the money was sent by bank transfer she dissappeared. This was three months ago now and email, telephone, etc elicits no response.

As this is not a dispute regarding the quality of the work as such, would it still be counted as a civil matter or is it a simple case of theft which I should report to the police.

Thanks in advance.

[Amethyst]

Re: Criminal or Civil Matter - Money Paid, No Service Received

Difficult to say without checking them out a bit more. Could be someone really bad at running a business, or just a scammer ( hence the bank transfer).

How did you find / contact the Designer ?

[MarkN]

Re: Criminal or Civil Matter - Money Paid, No Service Received

The designer was someone I've worked with (via email) for over a year. Did several jobs for me all absolutely fine.

I am in no doubt that she's turned dishonest, as it's been three months now since payment was made. I've emailed, called, contacted via her website etc. As soon as the money was sent she simply refused to respond.

[judgemental24]

Re: Criminal or Civil Matter - Money Paid, No Service Received

I would say this will be treated as a simple breach of contract

A civil matter as you willingly transfered the funds to a third party

With theft you will have to prove intent

That is why it cannot be a criminal matter as proving Mens rea will be impossible

[stevemLS]

Re: Criminal or Civil Matter - Money Paid, No Service Received

She could even have a valid reason insofar as she could be dead/desperately ill somewhere and unable to deal with her affairs.

However, agree, civil matter.