Chapter 23 - The mediation
We mediated rather than trial.
Seven hours.
Numbers everywhere.
Gross disputed charges:
$71,750 above written cap.
Credits for specific approved extras:
$13,900.
Reasonable value of additional documented services beyond cap:
Negotiated:
$9,800.
Processor refunds already issued:
$19,400.
Remaining disputed civil amount narrowed.
Then surplus.
Then attorney fees.
Then merchant costs.
Final settlement:
Melissa and her company paid me an additional:
$31,500.
Combined with processor refunds:
$50,900 restored.
I released remaining billing claims.
Melissa released concierge counterclaims.
No admission of fraud.
No criminal prosecution.
Why settle below theoretical maximum?
Because trials cost money.
Authorization evidence was mixed.
I had received housing and services.
I had approved some increases casually.
May you like
Certainty has value.
The case closed.
