Fort Lauderdale Consumer Protection Lawyer
As a consumer, you are afforded certain rights and protections at both a state and federal level. These cover a variety of services and transactions, some you might not even be aware there are protection agencies for. If you have been wronged in a transaction or suffered harm due a product, you should contact a knowledgeable Fort Lauderdale consumer protection lawyer who can advise you what your rights and legal options are.
In the meantime, here’s a look at some of the more common consumer protection laws you may need to know about.
Florida State Consumer Protection Laws
Some of the more common state consumer protection laws include:
- Florida Deceptive Trade Practice Law: This law deals with businesses or people who engage in deceptive trade practices or use false advertising, which can be anything from rolling back the odometer of a car they are selling to bait and switch of products.
- Florida Identity Theft Laws: There are various laws and regulations designed to punish someone who steals someone else’s identity for the purpose of buying goods or obtaining credit.
- Florida Homestead Laws: In some cases, disabled or elderly people may be eligible to remain in their homes despite being threatened with eviction or foreclosure.
- Florida Interest Rate Laws: These laws regulate what creditors can charge as the maximum interest rate to keep them from intentionally overcharging consumers, otherwise they may be penalized.
Federal Consumer Protection Laws
In addition to consumer protection laws at the state level, there are a large number of federal laws that are designed to protect consumers as well. Some of these include:
- Fair Credit Reporting Laws: These laws help protect consumers and their credit report. There are multiple acts that fall under these laws, like the Fair Credit Reporting Act and Consumer Credit Reporting Reform Act. Incorrect credit information and invasion of privacy in collecting and disseminating information are two areas that are covered under here.
- Consumer Leasing Act: A lessor is required to provide a clear disclosure of important terms that are included in a lease agreement. They must also list all costs charged for a lease as well.
- Privacy Policies: These are areas the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) handles and include protection for identity theft and unfair and deceptive practices. For example, when a business makes promises to a consumer regarding privacy, they have a duty to secure all personal data.
- Truth in Lending Act: If you are attempting to borrow money, the lender is required to provide a written disclosure that lays out the cost and terms of the loans.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer
If you feel you have a valid claim under these, or another consumer protection law, you need to speak with a Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact The Pendas Law Firm today at 844-200-0000 to schedule an initial consultation. Let one of our skilled Florida injury attorneys help ensure your legal rights are protected.