Can I be charged criminally if I took a deposit and backed out?

Can criminal charges be filed against me if I took a deposit, started the work but can’t finish without a draw that is being refused?
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Answered By: Cynthia Henley, Lawyer
Possibly. It depends on your history on these matters, your intent at the time you took the money, etc. You should do your best to get the money to continue the work. (You could be charged with a theft related issue if you took the money and didn't spend it as you agreed to do.)

Answer Applies to: Texas
Replied: 12/4/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Reeves Law Firm, P.C.
What you describe is a typical breach of contract, not a criminal act. But I answer that way not knowing all the facts.

Answer Applies to: Texas
Replied: 12/1/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

Answered By: Mark Thiessen, Attorney at Law
What was the crime then if no one got paid? Conspiracy, maybe. It's very easy to get charged, but then you hire an attorney. You have an attempted crime here which is definitely a crime.

Answer Applies to: Texas
Replied: 11/29/2011

Disclaimer: The response above does not form an attorney-client relationship. This answer may or may not apply to you and should not be relied upon as legal advice. LawQA does not make any representation as to the expertise or qualifications of this attorney. This attorney may or may not be admitted to state bar of your state.

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