I sold a car to a businessman whom I knew at least by reputation, so when he gave me a cheque for £3,000 I believed it would be sound, However, the bank returned the cheque four days later saying there wasn’t enough money in the account. I have telephoned the businessman and written three letters: how can I get my money?
You can sue someone who bounces a cheque on you and, except in limited circumstances, there is no defence since a cheque is supposed to be the equivalent of cash. As a small claim your scope for recovering any legal expenses would be very limited, however, assuming you were successful you should get your cash if the businessman has the money to pay you. Your other option would be to ask the court for the return of the vehicle.