I rented an apartment to three different individual tenant and provided them internet service. Recently I got a letter from a law firm mentioned that they represent "Dallas Buyer LLC" . They got my information from my ISP provider and they monitored that my IP address downloaded their client copyright movies illegally.The law firm offer settlement at $3800 and if I do not settle with them that will increase to $4800 and so on.
I contacted two attorneys specialized in this area. They mentioned that they can negotiate for me. The attorney fee will be $600 and $700 respectively. They mentioned that they will be able to negotiate to the amount between $1250 $2000。
Based on my research, landlord should not be liable for tenant's copyright infringement. But the problem is that I have to pay an attorney if they bring me to the court (I know how disadvantage I will be if no attorney representing me at court). I decided to contact the opposite attorney to negotiate by myself to settle with them with several hundred dollars. They first responded with $2900. I told them my situation as a landlord and the tenants who might have done this have gone back to Asia. Then they lowered to $2700 after a few days. I told them that was way too high to accept. After a week, today I contacted them again and they offer $800 to settle. I think this is an acceptable amount to avoid any future hassle. I am thinking to accept this settlement. But before taking it, I want to know your suggestion.
How do you think of such settlement? Should I go to court with them without settlement (actually someone told me that they might not even to sue based my situation because they know they will not win)? Please help!
