My minor son purchased an ATV in Maryland. We reside in PA. We were given the title and assumed it meant it was owned and legal to sell by t...

Question

My minor son purchased an ATV in Maryland. We reside in PA. We were given the title and assumed it meant it was owned and legal to sell by the seller as the seller also indicated it was a "clean, clear title". (As in Pa.) When we went to register it in Pa we were advised Maryland is a non-lease holding state and therefore we needed a letter from the finance co. proving the ATV was paid off. We came to find out the seller had purchased the ATV from another individual who still owes money on it and the title is NOT clear. We have numerous text messages from the seller indicating the letter was on its way and numerous phone calls to the seller and his father. To date, we have not received the letter and the seller is no longer returning calls/texts. Do we have any recourse. We are unable to register and insure the ATV and use it anywhere except our own property.

Answer

First off why send your son alone to enter a contract over 100 miles from home in another state. Since he's a minor he can't enter into a contract and have it be legally binding. That said 'm sure the seller knew that. Further, the seller saw him coming. The seller knew oyour son was easy pickings, I have no idea how much money is involved but why didn't you go to Maryland with him? Why didn't you try to find someone in PA. Bottom line dad, you screwed up. The fix will be neither cheap nor easy.

John