threatened with small claims court

[Rhumba]

Hi, wanting advice here. We recently engaged an architech for an extension and signed a contract. We got plans (which he discribed as prelimary) but he had made various errors, the plans did not follow the verbal brief we gave and we didn't like the look of what he did. We eventally cancelled the service and he is now trying to bill us for the full fee. he verbally agreed to pro rata if we cancelled mid service but he is obviously thinking that he has done enough!

FIl says we shouldn't pay a thing but I think the next stage is he will take us to the small claims court. Any advice of where we stand or what this procedure is etc? we've written twice discussing he needs to lower the fee but he's not budging.

help!

testing (pls ignore)

Is there a clause in your contract which dictates what happens in the event of a dispute? Is there a regulatory body mentioned who could arbitrate in case of a dispute?

it would probably be worth calling someone like consumer direct (08454 04 05 06)

You do need to look at the terms of your contract with him, to see where you stand. Could you have someone at CAB have a look if you're uncertain?

You should be careful with this becuase if the ruling is in his favour and you still do not pay you can end up with a county court judgement which will heavily affect your credit record.
Seek legal advice, I think most solicitors offer a free initial consultation.