Bad advice from stepson costs man $800k in car repairs

A costly family lesson played out in court when a man was ordered to pay his former daughter in law nearly one million dollars after taking advice from his stepson and refusing to repay money spent fixing his car.

The ruling was handed down by St Catherine Parish Court Judge Desiree Alleyne on Friday, December 12, 2025, in a civil breach of contract matter that grew out of a family dispute involving a damaged motor vehicle and an unfulfilled repayment agreement.

The case arose after the claimant used her personal funds to repair a motor vehicle owned by her former father in law following a collision that resulted in an insurance settlement.

Evidence before the court revealed that the claimant agreed to pay the repair costs upfront to speed up the process, with the understanding that she would be reimbursed once the insurance cheque was received.

However, repayment never materialised.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that the claimant's former husband, who is the defendant's stepson, allegedly intervened and discouraged the defendant from honouring the agreement.

Judge Alleyne noted that the defendant made several arrangements to meet the claimant at the bank to complete the repayment but failed to do so, influenced by concerns about jeopardising financial support from the stepson.

After reviewing the testimony, the judge ruled that a binding contract existed, noting acceptance, consideration and an intention to create legal relations.

The court found that the claimant suffered financial detriment for the defendant's benefit and was therefore entitled to repayment.

Judge Alleyne ordered the defendant to pay eight hundred thousand dollars in damages, with costs to be agreed or taxed.

The claimant was represented by Richardson Law Chamber, while attorney at law Tanya Walters Powell appeared for the defendant and indicated that an appeal will be pursued.

- Rasbert Turner

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