What legal actions can I take as a small business owner in Georgia if a customer refuses to pay for goods or services rendered?

As a small business owner in Georgia, you have several legal actions that you can take if a customer refuses to pay for goods or services rendered:

1. Send a demand letter: You can send a demand letter to the customer, stating the amount owed and requesting payment within a certain time frame. This letter can be sent by certified mail to provide proof that it was received.
2. File a lawsuit: If the customer still refuses to pay after receiving a demand letter, you can file a lawsuit in small claims court or civil court. In Georgia, small claims court is available for claims up to $15,000. You can represent yourself in small claims court, but it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney if you plan to file a lawsuit in civil court.
3. Hire a collection agency: You can also hire a collection agency to recover the debt on your behalf. Collection agencies charge a percentage of the amount recovered, so it may not be cost-effective for small debts.

It is important to note that there may be limitations or exceptions to these actions. For example, if the customer has declared bankruptcy, you may have to file a claim with the bankruptcy court to receive payment. Additionally, there may be certain requirements that must be met before filing a lawsuit, such as attempting to resolve the dispute through mediation.

If you are considering taking legal action against a customer who refuses to pay, it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney who can advise you on the best course of action based on the specific circumstances of your case.