Consumer Law Attorneys

As consumers, we often find ourselves in a less than desirable bargaining position and, in some cases, are flat out taken advantage of by large corporations. Fortunately, a number of laws and regulations exist to create a more equitable balance between consumers and sellers by prohibiting the use of dishonest tactics, such as false advertising and unethical sales or debt collection practices. 

Determining what your rights are in these transactions can be difficult. If you are grappling with a consumer law-related matter, consider retaining an experienced California consumer protection attorney who is well-versed in both state and federal law and can walk you through your legal options. We have decades of experience in addressing corporate unfairness toward consumers. 

False Advertising

Under federal law, consumers can file civil lawsuits against companies that engage in false advertising practices, such as misrepresenting the nature, qualities, characteristics, or origin of certain goods and services. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), also enforces these laws on behalf of consumers if a representation, omission, or practice has been deemed deceptive because it:

• Misleads consumers; and
• Affects the behavior and decisions of consumers regarding a specific product or service. 

California law also prohibits the dissemination of information about products or services that is untrue or misleading.

Unlawful Contractual Terms

Consumer protections extend well beyond advertising to cover unfair, fraudulent, or unlawful business practices. These practices can include such things as charging excessive fees, enforcing hidden or unclear contract terms, and avoiding obligations under warranties or refund agreements.

Violations of Privacy and Consumer Protection Laws

Federal and state law also protect consumers and employees from the unfair collection and use of their credit information and criminal record history. Specifically, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and the California Investigative Consumer Reporting Agencies Act (ICRAA)  guarantee consumers and employees the right to:

• Be told when information from their file has been used against them in the denial of an application for credit, insurance, or employment;
• Know what is in their files; 
• Ask for a credit score; and
• Dispute incomplete or inaccurate information. 

These laws regulate the conduct of the consumer reporting agencies (CRAs) and employers and creditors who use them. For example, a CRA is prohibited from providing a person’s information to anyone who does not have a valid need for the information. Furthermore, consumers and employees must give their consent before an agency can give their information to an employer or potential employer.

Contact Our Experienced Consumer Protection Attorneys

Determining whether you have a valid consumer protection claim against a company can be complicated, but our lawyers can help. To speak with an experienced consumer law attorney about your rights under state and federal law, please contact one of the lawyers at Olivier & Schreiber LLP today.