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Payment Fraud by a French Client - What Can I Do Legally?


24-May-2025 (In Criminal Law)
I'm an Indian freelancer who completed video editing work worth approx ₹3.4 lakhs for a client based in France. I worked as an individual (not a registered business) and there was no formal contract, but I have proof of the work and the client's promise to pay. He has now blocked me and refuses to pay. What legal or practical options do I have to recover my money from this international debtor?
Answers (3)

Answer #1
739 votes
U file a complaint before the police and with the evidence u have we can file a criminal complaint case in the court. Whatever messages u have either particularly electronic messages we can file them under evidence act 63 (4)(c) which are taken as evidence and after that inquiry is initiated by the court .If the allegations are found true then the FIR is registered .At the same time we can file recovery suit for recovery of ur amount in civil court with compensation .
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Advocate Ashutosh Patel

Adv. Ashutosh Patel

LawRato Jabalpur | 400+ Answers
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Answer #2
716 votes
As an Indian freelancer, even without a formal contract, you still have legal remedies to recover your dues from the French client. Since you have proof of the work done and the client’s promise to pay, your case is legally valid. First, collect and secure all communications, invoices, and files as evidence. Next, a legal notice can be sent via email from my office demanding payment within a specific period. If the client fails to respond, you can file a civil recovery suit in India under the Indian Contract Act, and in parallel, we can explore international legal channels such as initiating action under France’s debt recovery process or approaching global freelance dispute platforms. Let me know if you'd like to proceed with the notice.
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Advocate Abhishek Jat

Adv. Abhishek Jat

LawRatoGwalior | 25+ Answers
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Answer #3
816 votes
We can file a case in India for recovery of dues. If he doesn't appears before the court, we can get Ex-Parte order and file for execution. You can consult a good lawyer in your city to discuss about the technicalities involved in your case and then proceed accordingly.
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Advocate Saurabh Tripathi

Adv. Saurabh Tripathi

LawRatoIndore | 100+ Answers
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