Who says Japanese don’t sue?
Posted by Matt Dioguardi on June 26th, 2007
If you haven’t checked out the comparative consumer law blog yet then you really should.
Take for example the neat story they had a couple of days ago.
Here’s what happened …
A young couple decided to sign a contract to rent an apartment in a building that was under construction. One of the features they most liked about the apartment was that they would be able to see the famous Sumida river fireworks. The realtor had assured them of this.
So the couple moved in and all was happy at first. Until … [ominous music] … the realtor who was also the developer decided to build another apartment building, and guess where?
Yes, that’s right. The new building was smack dab between the couples apartment and the Sumida river. No more wonderful fireworks vistas from their back balcony. The incredible injustice!
So what did the couple do? They sued. Not only did they sue but they won! They were each awarded ¥3,500,000. That’s about $30,000 a piece.
Okay, I don’t like the particular way they won their case. I mean mental distress. Calling Thomas Szasz on the phone.
But the couple were treated unfairly, and they did take action. Good for them!
And I bet you thought Japanese never sue anybody!
If you’d like to find the story in Japanese try searching Yahoo! Japan using the phrase, “隅田川花火訴訟” or just click here.