The recent incident involving a Colorado business attempting to pay a subcontractor’s debt in more than three tons of coins highlights the need for clearer guidelines on settlement payments.

In this case, JMF Enterprises hired Fired Up Fabrication as a subcontractor for welding work, but the latter filed a civil lawsuit claiming they were not paid in full. After mediation, JMF agreed to settle the debt by paying $23,500 to Fired Up Fabrication. However, the settlement agreement did not specify how the payment should be made.

Six weeks ago, the attorney representing Fired Up Fabrication received a call from a truck driver, who informed her that he was delivering the settlement. To her surprise, the driver was attempting to deliver a massive box filled with coins weighing over 6,500 pounds. The attorney’s office could not accept the delivery as their freight elevator had weight limitations.

The attorney representing JMF argues that the coins constitute a valid form of payment and that the company has not intended to harass or waste time. They have asked a judge to force Fired Up Fabrication to accept the coins as payment.

This incident raises questions about the clarity of settlement agreements and the appropriate forms of payment. While the use of coins may be legal tender, the practicality and feasibility of accepting such a large quantity of coins should be taken into consideration. Additionally, the incident has been criticized as a petty and time-wasting stunt.

Ultimately, the Larimer County Judge will have to determine whether the use of coins as payment was a valid and reasonable approach. This case serves as a reminder that settlement agreements should clearly outline the form and method of payment to avoid disputes and unnecessary complications.