In this case, one friend had lent another friend in Ohio over $150,000 to invest in a “cigar bar” which never actually materialized. The friendship ruptured when the borrower dropped out of contact and refused to pay back any of the $150,000.

Fortunately, the lender came to Jantzen & Associates and we immediately sued on the Promissory Note in the United States District of Massachusetts, pursuant to diversity jurisdiction. After aggressively pursuing paper discovery, we scheduled the deposition of the defendant, which he sought to avoid in any way possible. Eventually, the case went to mediation before a retired Federal Court judge. After 2 sessions, the case was eventually resolved at $200,000 on a $150,000 debt.

With the threat of a potential judgment hanging over his head, the defendant finally came to his senses and made full payment of the $200,000. Thus, our client was not only made whole, but was paid with interest and his attorney’s fees were reimbursed, too.