Dear Susan:
 
The fact there was no contract signed means a lot in this lady's favor.
Without any written and signed instrument, this woman has the ball in her
court.  To add insult to injury, you are now "holding" her ferret without
yet anything written.
 
Your compassion and love for ferrets can have some weight and argument in
a court of law, however these "emotions" will not change the judge's or
justice's interpretation of jurisprudence concerning written as opposed to
verbal agreements.
 
The woman is desperate.  Do you want to help desperate people?  Do you want
to help desperate ferrets?  Help her sell the ferret, only tell her she
needs to take a more active role in the sale.  Be sure to include some
reasonable percentage (say 33/ 3 %) you would receive from the sale (this
would help cover for maintenance and any health issues arising during the
time the ferret is with you).
 
As a disclaimer, I am not an attorney, but only speak from experience.  I
am a seasoned paralegal.
 
Very Best regards,
 
Sarah, proud owner of Green Max, Stela, and Fatfurrbutt Portia, and living
in Louisiana where it is legal....
[Posted in FML issue 2994]