Is a contract with an unlicensed plumber or electrician void?

Is a contract with an unlicensed plumber or electrician void?

My friend was ripped off by an unlicensed electrician, who took the check and never came back to do the work. Joe put a stop payment. The check has been cashed at a check cashing place, ant they are suing Joe because they are “Holder in Due Course”. I looked that up online, and found that illegality of contract is a defense against anyone but only if the illegality makes the contract void. If the contract is only voidable, Joe’s only recourse is to sue the scammer (good luck!). So, is Joe or the check cashing place going to have to eat the loss?

Asked on March 1, 2012 under General Practice, Ohio

Answers:

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