CHARLESTON – A telephone book distributor claims a Charleston law firm owes more than $19,000 in advertising costs.
Michael Martin and Michael Martin & Associates were named as defendants in a lawsuit filed Aug. 15 by HIBU Inc., also known as Yellowbook Inc. and Yellow Book Sales and Distribution Company Inc.
HIBU, which is based in King of Prussia, Pa., claims Martin signed contracts agreeing to be responsible for payments to advertise in certain editions of the plaintiff's local phone directories.
"Plaintiff published the advertising exactly as requested by defendant," the complaint states. "There were no errors or omissions in any of the subject advertising."
The company claims Martin and his law firm have benefited from unjust enrichment by failing to pay for the advertising.
HIBU, however, alleges Martin has failed to make regularly monthly payments on the account. After payments were accelerated because of missed payments, HIBU says Martin owes $15,267.39.
As part of the contract, HIBU says Martin also agreed to attorneys' fees in the collection of any balance. That amounts to $3,816.85. It says Martin also agreed to pay interest on past due balances.
HIBU seeks judgment in the amount of $15,267.39 for the payments and $3,816.85 for attorneys' fees as well as interest on both amounts.
The plaintiff company is being represented by Bethlehem, Pa., attorney John R. Keating. The case has been assigned to Kanawha Circuit Judge Tod Kaufman.
Charleston law firm allegedly owes for phone book ads
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