Dan wrote:
We recently moved from a rental house in the Seattle area where we had
Protection One alarm service. We were approximately 15 months into the 3
year contract. They are billing us for the remainder of the term, nearly
$700. Needless to say, I would prefer not to pay for service we will not be
using. Has anyone had any experience terminating such a contract early,
particularly with Protection One?

Thanks

Dan


First, post this on alt.legal and / or misc.legal and you'll probably
get a more informed response.

Second, just south of you in Oregon, the Oregon Court of Appeals
on January 31, 2007, decided a very interesting case involving an
adhesion contract with an allegedly unconscionable arbitration clause.

See, generally, See Vasquez-Lopez v. Beneficial Oregon, Inc., 210 Or App
553, 560, 152 P3d 940 (2007)

http://www.publications.ojd.state.or.us/A125270.htm


A very interesing analysis of unconscionability and the voiding of
unconscionable clauses in contracts. Of course, it doesn't control in
Washington State,(and I have less than zero knowledge of Washington
law on unconscionable contract clauses) but it may give you a starting
point for analysis.

It should frighten the folks who use hidden mice type screw the customer
clauses.

An early termination penalty may be unconscionable. Depends upon the facts.

Good luck!