20 yrs ago I had my sister sign a loan agreement when I paid off a $20K+ theft. How can I get my $?

My sister was charged with felony theft of $20K+ from Fox Camera. She faced 20 yrs so I made restitution on the money so she wouldn't go to prison. Fox is now close, she signed a loan agreement which is gone. The attorney who handled it refuses to look up the records.

I really need money now. Is this anyway I can sue her, with out a loan agreement, for my money? She now denies the even ever took place.

Any input would be appreciated.

Thank you,

JR

There is no state in the US with a 20 year statute of limitations on a personal loan of any kind. That alone would defeat your lawsuit. I'm sure she wouldn't be willing to loan you 20K but you could ask.

I'm sorry you're experiencing this. It must be terrible to be betrayed by family... especially when you did such a *monumentally* kind thing for her.

The statute of limitations on debts --- the time allotted to legally enforce the debt --- begins when the contract is signed. Most states recognize a 4-6 year SOL on debts. The SOL is renewed with a partial payment or a written promise to pay. If you have more recent proof of either of these, AND the document that proves the debt existed, you may have legal recourse. (Is the original attorney refusing to locate documents, or refusing to locate documents without pay? Ask his local bar association what you can do to compel him.) You'd need an attorney to proceed. IF you have standing to sue, the amount exceeds small claims court.

I say this from personal experience: NEVER loan money that you ever want to get back or may need in the future. When you make a loan, treat it in your mind like a gift.

I thank all of you for your responses. This is my introduction to a networking "club" and truly impressed with the knowledge and talent out there.

Your terrific and I hope I may make worthwhile contributions. My area is marketing.

Again, thank you.

JR111