Jim, The old "now we're out of money, can you still fix it?". If I were in your position, I would charge a consulting fee for providing your detailed assessment and also for testifying in a deposition and/or in court. The admonition regarding trying to fix up someone else's poor work should be heeded. Do you need to try to do this and struggle with the customer about paying for the time it really takes you? I would stand firmly with the recommendation that now, the only solution is to send the instrument to the Steinway factory for rebuilding there. The factory will have no real problem tearing it all down and starting from scratch. The funds for such a project could come from proceeds from the lawsuit, a loan or savings accumulated for a few years as the piano sits in the picture window occupying space but producing no music. It is not your problem because it is not the result of your misdeeds. Trying to solve the problem without adequate compensation would only place you in jeopardy and hardship. Your best position in this matter is as an expert consultant for which you can and should take compensation for the time you spend giving analysis, opinions and advice. Bill Bremmer RPT Madison, Wisconsin
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