{"id":357981,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:18","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/consumer-law.html"},"modified":"2026-07-28T11:22:53","modified_gmt":"2026-07-28T16:22:53","slug":"consumer-law","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/consumer-law.html","title":{"rendered":"What Do Consumer Law Attorneys Do?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">What Do Consumer Law Attorneys Do?<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/balrina-ahluwalia-esq\/\">Balrina Ahluwalia, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/catherine-hodder-esq\/\">Catherine Hodder, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            July 28, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <div>\n<div id=\"UXv1A5BbjbXyqpgirAEzC-content-0\">\n<p><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer law<\/span> attorneys protect people from unfair or <span data-term-id=\"56996789\">deceptive <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span> and ensure companies follow rules on advertising, credit reporting, debt collection, and product safety. When problems arise, <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">consumer law<\/span> attorneys help individuals understand their rights and take action against businesses that violate them.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div><p><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer law<\/span> affects almost every part of our lives. Whether it\u2019s the products we buy, the loans we take out, or the personal information we share online, these laws help protect consumers. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions.html\">Understanding <span data-term-id=\"56996750\">consumer rights<\/span><\/a> and how often companies break the rules is crucial in protecting yourself and the ones you love. Unfair, misleading, and abusive <span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span> are fairly common. Knowing your <span data-term-id=\"56996750\">consumer rights<\/span> can help you spot warning signs and identify steps to take if something goes wrong.<\/p>\n<p>This article breaks down the main <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">consumer laws<\/span> and protections you\u2019ll want to know. It\u2019s designed to help you recognize violations and the various legal remedies for them. We\u2019ll also review the role of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"56996754\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996754\"> attorneys<\/span><\/a> and explain when you may need one to enforce your rights.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re not sure how to proceed, consider a consultation with a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">consumer law<\/span> attorney<\/a>. They can help you understand your legal options so you can make informed decisions moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>In the meantime, let\u2019s take a look at a few major <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Important <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer Laws<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer law<\/span> is a broad area of law. It protects people from <span data-term-id=\"56996771\">unfair <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"56996787\">deceptive trade practices<\/span>, and <span data-term-id=\"56996757\">consumer fraud<\/span>. These laws exist at both the state and <span data-term-id=\"56996786\">federal level<\/span>. They help ensure that companies treat customers fairly, provide honest information, and follow safe and ethical <span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Below, we review some of the more important federal <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3>Consumer Product Safety Act<\/h3>\n<p>Through this law, the government can recall unsafe or <span data-term-id=\"56996760\">defective products<\/span>. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/consumer-protection-laws-and-agencies.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumer Product Safety Commission<\/a> can take action to protect the public.<\/p>\n<h3>Dodd\u2011Frank Wall Street Reform and <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">Consumer Protection<\/span> Act<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/securities-law\/what-is-the-dodd-frank-act.html\">Dodd\u2011Frank<\/a> is a major <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> law<\/span>. It was passed after the 2008 financial crisis to make lending and banking safer. It:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires <span data-term-id=\"56996772\">lenders<\/span> to check that borrowers can repay their mortgages<\/li>\n<li>Bans many predatory loan practices<\/li>\n<li>Stops mortgage brokers from earning more by steering people into risky loans<\/li>\n<li>Improves loan disclosures so borrowers understand the terms<\/li>\n<li>Created the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/law-and-life\/what-is-the-consumer-protection-financial-bureau-will-it-survive\/\">Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)<\/a> to enforce rules<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These protections aim to reduce risky lending and strengthen oversight.<\/p>\n<h3>Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA)<\/h3>\n<p>The FCBA gives consumers important protections when dealing with <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit card<\/span> billing problems. It allows you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance\/are-you-liable-for-unauthorized-credit-card-charges.html\">dispute unauthorized charges<\/a>, incorrect statements, or goods you never received.<\/p>\n<p>The FCBA only applies to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/bankruptcy\/debt-relief\/your-rights-under-the-credit-card-act.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit cards<\/span><\/a> and other open\u2011end credit accounts that let you borrow, repay, and borrow again. It doesn\u2019t apply to installment loans like mortgages and car loans.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"56996782\">Fair Credit Reporting Act<\/span> (<span data-term-id=\"56996793\">FCRA<\/span>)<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/us\/title-15-commerce-and-trade\/15-usc-sect-1681\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The <span data-term-id=\"56996782\">Fair Credit Reporting Act<\/span><\/a> gives you rights related to your credit report. It requires credit bureaus to report accurate information and allows you to dispute errors. The <span data-term-id=\"56996793\">FCRA<\/span> also helps protect you from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/online-scams\/stolen-identity-what-to-do.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996753\">identity theft<\/span><\/a> by giving you the right to place fraud alerts or credit freezes. Some states ban credit bureaus from listing most medical bills on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance\/credit-score-information-how-to-manage-your-credit-score.html\">your credit report<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"56996788\">Fair Debt Collection Practices Act<\/span> (FDCPA)<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/what-actions-must-a-collection-agency-avoid.html\">The FDCPA protects people<\/a> from abusive or harassing <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">debt collectors<\/span>. It limits when and how collectors can contact you, bans threats, and requires collectors to provide accurate information about the debt.<\/p>\n<p>A <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">debt collector<\/span> is presumed to violate the FDCPA if either of the following applies:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>They call more than seven times within a seven-day period about a particular debt<\/li>\n<li>They call within seven days of having a telephone conversation with you about that same debt<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If a company violates the FDCPA, you may be able to take <span data-term-id=\"56996759\">legal action<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"56996769\">Federal Trade Commission<\/span> Act<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/us\/title-15-commerce-and-trade\/15-usc-sect-41\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The <span data-term-id=\"56996769\">Federal Trade Commission<\/span> Act<\/a> is the base for many federal <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">consumer protection<\/span> regulations. Congress passed the law to ban unfair or <span data-term-id=\"56996789\">deceptive <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span>. It gave the <span data-term-id=\"56996769\">Federal Trade Commission<\/span> (<span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span>) power to enforce that standard.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ftc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span> <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ftc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">issues regulations<\/a> in areas such as <span data-term-id=\"56996794\">telemarketing<\/span>, used\u2011car sales, and certain home\u2011solicitation sales. These regulations have the force of law despite not being statutes passed by Congress.<\/p>\n<h3>Magnuson\u2011Moss <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">Warranty<\/span> Act<\/h3>\n<p>This <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/warranty-laws-and-the-magnuson-moss-warranty-act.html\">law governs <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranties<\/span> on consumer products<\/a>. It requires companies to honor written <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranties<\/span> and prevents them from using misleading <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span> terms. If a company refuses to fix a product covered by a <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span>, you may have a <span data-term-id=\"56996774\">breach of <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span> claim.<\/p>\n<h3>Telephone <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">Consumer Protection<\/span> Act (TCPA)<\/h3>\n<p>The TCPA restricts when and how companies can contact you. It was created to reduce unwanted:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/consumer-protection\/fcc-rules-on-robocalls\/\"><span data-term-id=\"56996790\">Robocalls<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Autodialed calls<\/li>\n<li>Prerecorded voice calls<\/li>\n<li>Spam texts<\/li>\n<li>Aggressive <span data-term-id=\"56996794\">telemarketing<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In 2021, the <a href=\"https:\/\/caselaw.findlaw.com\/court\/us-supreme-court\/19-511.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Supreme Court sharply narrowed the definition<\/a> of illegal autodialers under the TCPA. It now includes only systems that use a random or sequential number generator to store or generate numbers. Before this, many courts treated any system that automatically dialed stored numbers as an illegal autodialer.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/caselaw.findlaw.com\/court\/us-supreme-court\/19-631.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The High Court also threw out<\/a> the TCPA\u2019s government debt exception in 2020. <span data-term-id=\"56996790\">Robocalls<\/span> about federal debts are now treated the same as other illegal <span data-term-id=\"56996790\">robocalls<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3>Truth in Lending Act (TILA)<\/h3>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance\/truth-in-lending-disclosure-statements.html\">TILA requires <span data-term-id=\"56996772\">lenders<\/span> to be upfront<\/a> about interest rates, <span data-term-id=\"56996776\">hidden fees<\/span>, and loan terms. Its purpose is to prevent predatory lending practices that hide the true cost of borrowing.<\/p>\n<p>These <span data-term-id=\"56996778\">federal laws<\/span> establish nationwide standards. Every state must follow the minimum federal requirements, but can also provide stronger protections through state laws.<\/p>\n<h2>State <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">Consumer Protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> Laws<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Each state has its own <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span>. They\u2019re often called little <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span> acts or unfair and deceptive acts and practices (UDAP) laws. In general, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer.html#:~:text=State%20Laws%20Protect%20Consumer%20Rights\">these state laws<\/a> address areas like <span data-term-id=\"56996763\">unfair trade practices<\/span> and <span data-term-id=\"56996791\">misrepresentation<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3>Different Levels of Protection<\/h3>\n<p>State protections can vary. Some add stronger rules and extra protections for consumers. For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ca\/civil-code\/civ-sect-1812-85\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">California provides extra protection<\/a> by giving consumers five business days to cancel a health club contract. <span data-term-id=\"56996778\">Federal law<\/span> offers no such protection. The <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span> does impose a three-day cooling-off period, but only for limited in-home sales contracts.<\/p>\n<p>Other states may set tougher rules for <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">debt collectors<\/span>. For instance, Massachusetts prohibits more than two collection calls in a seven-day period.<\/p>\n<p>Some states also allow more serious damages for <span data-term-id=\"56996758\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996758\"> cases<\/span>. <a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/co\/title-6-consumer-and-commercial-affairs\/co-rev-st-sect-6-1-113\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Colorado\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">Consumer Protection<\/span> Act<\/a> allows courts to award treble (triple) damages if a business acts in bad faith. This means it knowingly or intentionally engaged in deceptive conduct that caused harm. Treble damages means a $2,000 loss could become a $6,000 judgment owed to the consumer.<\/p>\n<p>A few states offer no additional protections. For example, Alabama follows federal <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">consumer protection<\/span> standards and doesn&#8217;t add stricter state-level rules. The level of protection you get from state law depends heavily on where you live.<\/p>\n<h3>Enforcement<\/h3>\n<p>State <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span> are mainly enforced by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.naag.org\/find-my-ag\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">state <span data-term-id=\"56996755\">attorneys general<\/span><\/a>. They can investigate businesses, bring lawsuits, and issue penalties. They often work together with state <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">consumer protection<\/span> agencies, which handle complaints, conduct investigations, and enforce state regulations.<\/p>\n<p>Agencies often receive <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/filing-a-consumer-complaint-about-a-bank.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996775\">consumer complaints<\/span><\/a> first. They attempt to identify patterns of misconduct and refer serious cases to the <span data-term-id=\"56996755\">attorney general<\/span> for <span data-term-id=\"56996759\">legal action<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer Law<\/span> Terms<\/h2>\n<p>Understanding a few key terms can make it easier to recognize <span data-term-id=\"56996781\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996781\"> issues<\/span>. In this section, we identify and explain some of the jargon you may encounter:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996785\">Attorney fees<\/span><\/strong>: The cost of hiring a lawyer, which businesses may have to reimburse you with a lawsuit <span data-term-id=\"56996792\">verdict<\/span> against them<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/class-action-cases.html\"><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996770\">Class-action lawsuit<\/span><\/strong><\/a>: A lawsuit where a group of people with similar injuries sues a company together<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996775\">Consumer complaint<\/span><\/strong>: A report you file with a government agency or company about a problem<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996757\">Consumer fraud<\/span><\/strong>: When a business or person lies, tricks, or deceives you for financial gain<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer law<\/span><\/strong>: The body of laws that protect buyers of goods and services<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996750\">Consumer rights<\/span><\/strong>: Legal protections that give you the ability to challenge unfair or deceptive conduct<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/personal-injury\/what-is-a-contingency-fee\/\"><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996784\">Contingency fee<\/span><\/strong><\/a>: A payment arrangement where a lawyer only gets paid if you win your case<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996762\">Lemon laws<\/span><\/strong>: State laws that protect buyers of new (and sometimes used) cars that turn out to be defective<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996771\">Unfair <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span><\/strong>: Actions by a company that are dishonest, misleading, or harmful to consumers<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996749\">Warranty<\/span><\/strong>: A promise from a seller or manufacturer about the quality or performance of a product<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Together, these terms provide a foundation for understanding the <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span> you may encounter.<\/p>\n<h2>Common <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer Law<\/span> Issues<\/h2>\n<p>People face consumer problems every day. Below are some real-world examples to help you identify similar issues.<\/p>\n<h3>Credit and Debt<\/h3>\n<p>Some consumers run into problems with credit and debt matters. The following examples highlight some of the most common situations consumers face.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Harassment by <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">debt collectors<\/span><\/strong>: <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">Debt collectors<\/span> must abide by the law. A <span data-term-id=\"56996764\">debt collector<\/span> who calls you 10 times a day, threatens to sue you, or contacts your employer is guilty of harassment in violation of the <span data-term-id=\"56996788\">Fair Debt Collection Practices Act<\/span>.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance\/how-to-fix-a-credit-report-error.html\"><strong>Errors on credit reports<\/strong><\/a>: Maybe your credit report shows a loan you never took out or lists late payments that aren\u2019t yours. Under the <span data-term-id=\"56996793\">FCRA<\/span>, you have the right to dispute errors on your credit report.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996753\">Identity theft<\/span><\/strong>: Someone who steals your Social Security number and opens <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit cards<\/span> in your name can cause you massive issues. Disputing fraudulent accounts and repairing your credit can be an awful, frustrating experience.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/mortgages-equity-loans\/predatory-lending.html\"><strong>Predatory lending<\/strong><\/a>: If a loan sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Payday <span data-term-id=\"56996772\">lenders<\/span> charge exorbitant fees, high interest rates, and use hidden loan terms that often violate state and <span data-term-id=\"56996778\">federal laws<\/span>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Unfair <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit card<\/span> practices<\/strong>: Plastic isn\u2019t always fantastic. <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">Credit card<\/span> companies can add <span data-term-id=\"56996776\">hidden fees<\/span>, raise interest rates without notice, or refuse to remove fraudulent charges.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These credit and debt issues can cause serious stress. Knowing your rights can help you take control and resolve problems.<\/p>\n<h3>Products and Services<\/h3>\n<p>Consumers can run into problems with the products they buy or the services they use. The examples below show how these issues often appear in real life.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/defective-products-and-consumer-rights.html\"><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996760\">Defective products<\/span><\/strong><\/a>: Not everything works as promised or is as safe as it should be. Dangerous defects may give you the right to seek repairs, refunds, or compensation.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996748\">False advertising<\/span><\/strong>: A company might claim a supplement causes instant weight loss even though it has no proven results. Misleading claims like this can violate <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bait\u2011and\u2011switch tactics<\/strong>: A store may advertise a low\u2011priced laptop to get you in the door, then say it\u2019s sold out and push you to buy a more expensive model. This tactic is illegal in many situations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Failure to honor <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranties<\/span><\/strong>: You might bring in a phone that\u2019s still under <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span>, only to have the company refuse to repair or replace it. When a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/consumer-warranty-basics.html\">business ignores a valid <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span><\/a>, you may have legal options.<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996762\">Lemon law<\/span> violations<\/strong>: Some people buy new cars that constantly break down, even after multiple repair attempts. When a dealer refuses to replace or refund the vehicle, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/lemon-law\/lemon-laws-state-specific-information.html\">state <span data-term-id=\"56996762\">lemon laws<\/span><\/a> may apply.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When companies fail to deliver safe products or honest services, <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span> can provide avenues to challenge such problems and seek a fair outcome.<\/p>\n<h3>Privacy and Data<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/online-scams\/federal-data-privacy-laws.html\">Privacy problems<\/a> are becoming more common. The examples that follow illustrate how personal information can be misused or exposed:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/business-data-breach-customer-id-theft.html\"><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996761\">Data breaches<\/span><\/strong><\/a>: A company\u2019s poor security might expose your Social Security number or bank information, putting you at risk of fraud or <span data-term-id=\"56996773\">financial loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>Unauthorized use of personal information<\/strong>: A business could share or sell your data without permission, or sign you up for services you never requested<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996790\">Robocalls<\/span> and spam<\/strong>: Even if your number is on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.donotcall.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the Do Not Call list<\/a>, you may still get nonstop <span data-term-id=\"56996790\">robocalls<\/span> or spam texts in violation of federal <span data-term-id=\"56996794\">telemarketing<\/span> rules<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Data issues can lead to long-term harm. It\u2019s important to act quickly when your personal information is at risk.<\/p>\n<h3>Housing and Utilities<\/h3>\n<p>Housing and utility problems can affect your safety and stability. Some situations renters and residents experience include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/eviction.html\"><strong>Unfair eviction practices<\/strong><\/a>: A landlord might try to evict you without proper notice, without a legal reason, or in retaliation for reporting unsafe conditions<\/li>\n<li><strong>Utility shut\u2011offs<\/strong>: A utility company may disconnect your electricity or water without following the required procedures, leaving you without essential services<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/landlord-tenant-law\/landlord-tenant-disputes-faqs.html\"><strong>Landlord\u2011tenant disputes<\/strong><\/a>: Common issues include landlords refusing to make repairs, keeping security deposits without reason, or ignoring health and safety problems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Understanding your housing rights can help you respond when a landlord or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/can-a-utility-company-shut-off-my-water-without-notice.html\">utility company acts unfairly<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"56996752\">Scams<\/span> and Fraud<\/h3>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"56996752\">Scams<\/span> and fraud come in many forms. The following scenarios show how easily people can be targeted.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/online-scams.html\"><strong>Online <span data-term-id=\"56996752\">scams<\/span><\/strong><\/a>: Fake websites or sellers may take your money and never send the product, or steal your <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit card<\/span> information<\/li>\n<li><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996794\">Telemarketing<\/span> fraud<\/strong>: Scammers may call pretending to be from the government or a trusted company and pressure you into paying money or sharing personal information<\/li>\n<li><strong>Investment schemes<\/strong>: Someone might promise \u201cguaranteed returns\u201d or \u201crisk-free profits,\u201d but the offer turns out to be a <span data-term-id=\"56996752\">scam<\/span> designed to steal your savings<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/elder\/elder-abuse\/elder-financial-abuse-and-exploitation.html\"><strong>Elder financial abuse<\/strong><\/a>: Scammers or even acquaintances may pressure older adults into giving money, signing contracts, or sharing sensitive information<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Recognizing these warning signs can help you avoid becoming a victim and protect your finances.<\/p>\n<h2>Federal <span data-term-id=\"56996745\">Consumer Protection<\/span> Agencies<\/h2>\n<p>Several federal agencies work to keep the marketplace fair, safe, and honest. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance\/what-consumer-protection-agencies-do.html\">They enforce <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span><\/a>, investigate wrongdoing, and take action when companies break the rules.<\/p>\n<p>These agencies can issue fines, order refunds, create new rules, and stop illegal practices. They also give consumers clear ways to report problems when something goes wrong.<\/p>\n<h3>Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)<\/h3>\n<p>The CFPB oversees financial businesses. These include banks, <span data-term-id=\"56996765\">credit card<\/span> companies, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/higher-education\/student-loans-legal-information-you-should-know.html\">student loan servicers<\/a>. It ensures these companies comply with federal lending and credit laws and treat consumers fairly. People can <a href=\"https:\/\/consumerfinance.gov\/complaint\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">file financial complaints with the CFPB<\/a> about billing errors, loan issues, or unfair fees. The CFPB sends complaints to the company and demands a response.<\/p>\n<p>The CFPB recaptured billions for consumers from fraudsters violating federal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance.html\">consumer finance laws<\/a>. It can also impose enforcement actions to stop harmful practices and protect other consumers, but its power and reach were severely reduced in 2025.<\/p>\n<h3>Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)<\/h3>\n<p>The CPSC works to keep everyday products safe. It investigates injuries, tests products, and orders recalls when items are dangerous or defective.<\/p>\n<p>Consumers can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.saferproducts.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">report unsafe products<\/a>. This helps the agency identify hazards and decide whether a recall or safety warning is needed. The CPSC will investigate the complaint and may issue warnings, enforce recalls, or demand repairs\/refunds.<\/p>\n<h3>Federal Communications Commission (FCC)<\/h3>\n<p>The FCC regulates phone companies, <span data-term-id=\"56996790\">robocalls<\/span>, text messages, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/telephone-marketing-laws.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996794\">telemarketing<\/span><\/a>. It enforces rules that protect people from:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Unwanted calls<\/li>\n<li>Hidden phone charges<\/li>\n<li>Misuse of personal information<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/consumercomplaints.fcc.gov\/hc\/en-us\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Consumers can file complaints about phone, text, and internet<\/a> issues with the FCC. If it finds violations of communication laws, it may take action. This can include issuing fines, ordering corrective action, and blocking access to phone networks.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"56996769\">Federal Trade Commission<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span> protects consumers from <span data-term-id=\"56996752\">scams<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"56996748\">false advertising<\/span>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/online-scams\/privacy-and-online-shopping.html\">privacy violations<\/a>, and <span data-term-id=\"56996771\">unfair <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996747\">business practices<\/span>. It can shut down fraudulent companies, sue businesses that break the law, and require refunds for harmed consumers. <a href=\"https:\/\/reportfraud.ftc.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reporting <span data-term-id=\"56996752\">scams<\/span> and fraud<\/a> to the <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span> also helps it spot patterns and launch investigations.<\/p>\n<h3>U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)<\/h3>\n<p>HUD enforces fair housing laws. It <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/understanding-your-rights-housing-discrimination.html\">protects renters and homeowners from discrimination<\/a> and unsafe living conditions.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.hud.gov\/reporthousingdiscrimination\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">People can file a fair housing complaint<\/a> for unfair treatment based on a protected characteristic. These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Race<\/li>\n<li>Color<\/li>\n<li>National origin<\/li>\n<li>Religion<\/li>\n<li>Sex (including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/gay-and-lesbian-rights-sexual-orientation-discrimination.html\">sexual orientation and gender identity<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Familial status<\/li>\n<li>Disability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>HUD investigates these cases. It can take action against landlords or housing providers who violate <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/civilrights\/discrimination\/fair-housing-federal-laws.html\">federal housing rules<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>Legal Remedies for <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer Law<\/span> Violations<\/h2>\n<p>When a company breaks <span data-term-id=\"56996746\">consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996746\"> laws<\/span>, you have several ways to enforce your rights. Some remedies involve filing a complaint with a government agency. Others may involve <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit.html\">taking the business to court<\/a>. The right option depends on the specific problem and the outcome you\u2019re seeking.<\/p>\n<h3>Government Agency Remedies<\/h3>\n<p>Many consumer problems can be handled by filing a complaint with a federal or state agency. Agencies can investigate, issue refunds, and stop illegal practices. These complaints are usually free. Filing often doesn\u2019t require a lawyer, but sometimes <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">using one makes sense<\/a>. They can often make your complaint more compelling and frame the facts effectively. They\u2019ll also know how to apply pressure to which agencies and companies typically respond.<\/p>\n<p>Agencies and your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/law-and-life\/what-does-an-attorney-general-do\/\">state <span data-term-id=\"56996755\">attorney general<\/span><\/a> use these reports to take action that protects the public. They don\u2019t represent you personally, but their actions can still lead to refunds, corrected errors, or changes in the company\u2019s behavior.<\/p>\n<h3>Private Lawsuit Remedies<\/h3>\n<p>In some situations, you may choose to take the business to court. This could involve actions like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Filing a case in small claims court for a refund<\/li>\n<li>Suing for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/consumer-warranty-basics.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996774\">breach of <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Bringing a claim under your state\u2019s <span data-term-id=\"56996757\">consumer fraud<\/span> laws<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If many people experience the same or similar harm, a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/filing-a-lawsuit\/how-to-file-a-class-action-lawsuit.html\"><span data-term-id=\"56996770\">class action lawsuit<\/span> may be possible<\/a>. Lawsuits can lead to compensation, repairs, or replacements. Additional damages may be permitted if the company acted intentionally or recklessly.<\/p>\n<p>These cases can take longer and generally require legal help, but they give you direct control over the <span data-term-id=\"56996777\">legal process<\/span>. This allows you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/what-does-it-mean-to-settle-a-case.html\">decide whether to settle<\/a>, continue, or push for trial.<\/p>\n<h3>Choosing the Right Path<\/h3>\n<p>Most consumers start with an <a href=\"https:\/\/corporate.findlaw.com\/business-operations\/how-to-resolve-your-consumer-complaint-self-help-or-class.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">agency complaint<\/a>. If the problem is serious, involves significant money, or the company refuses to cooperate, a lawsuit may be the stronger option. In many cases, using both approaches gives you the best chance of getting a fair result.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Strategizing with an attorney<\/a> at the outset is often a smart move. They can map out the strongest sequence of actions and ensure your agency complaint supports a potential lawsuit rather than undermines it. This positions you for the best possible outcome in both arenas.<\/p>\n<h2>What Do <span data-term-id=\"56996754\">Consumer Protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996754\"> Attorneys<\/span> Do?<\/h2>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"56996751\">Consumer protection<\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996751\"> lawyers<\/span> help people fight back against unfair, deceptive, or illegal business conduct. They provide <span data-term-id=\"56996766\">advocacy<\/span>, guidance, and legal representation.<\/p>\n<p>In practical terms, an attorney will:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-contracts-forms\/contracts-basics.html\"><strong>Review contracts and terms of service<\/strong><\/a>: Examines contracts for <span data-term-id=\"56996776\">hidden fees<\/span>, unfair terms, or illegal clauses<\/li>\n<li><strong>Challenge unfair debt collection practices<\/strong>: Uses <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/credit-banking-finance.html\">federal and state laws<\/a> to shut down harassment when collectors cross legal boundaries<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dispute credit report errors<\/strong>: Prepares targeted <span data-term-id=\"56996793\">FCRA<\/span> disputes and presses credit bureaus to correct damaging inaccuracies<\/li>\n<li><strong>Handle <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/criminal\/criminal-charges\/identity-theft.html\"><strong><span data-term-id=\"56996753\">identity theft<\/span> cases<\/strong><\/a>: Guides you through clearing fraudulent accounts, dealing with creditors, and restoring your credit history<\/li>\n<li><strong>Negotiate with creditors<\/strong>: Works with <span data-term-id=\"56996772\">lenders<\/span> to reduce balances, pause interest, or arrange realistic repayment plans<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pursue <span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span> claims<\/strong>: Pursues <span data-term-id=\"56996774\">breach of <\/span><span data-term-id=\"56996749\">warranty<\/span> claims and effectively pushes companies to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions\/product-warranties-returns.html\">repair, replace, or refund <span data-term-id=\"56996760\">defective products<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li><strong>File complaints with agencies<\/strong>: Brings issues to regulators, like the <span data-term-id=\"56996780\">FTC<\/span>, CFPB, or state <span data-term-id=\"56996755\">attorneys general<\/span>, for prompt investigations and enforcement<\/li>\n<li><strong>Represent clients in <span data-term-id=\"56996770\">class action lawsuits<\/span><\/strong>: Leads large-scale cases when many people are harmed by the same unlawful conduct<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seek <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/what-are-compensatory-damages.html\"><strong>damages for violations<\/strong><\/a>: Pursues the maximum compensation that the law allows, including statutory damages, actual losses, and <span data-term-id=\"56996785\">attorney fees<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>Fight against predatory lending practices<\/strong>: Challenges abusive loan terms and holds <span data-term-id=\"56996772\">lenders<\/span> accountable for illegal or exploitative practices<\/li>\n<li><strong>Address privacy violations and <span data-term-id=\"56996761\">data breaches<\/span><\/strong>: Help clients harmed by <span data-term-id=\"56996761\">data breaches<\/span>, unauthorized data sharing, or privacy violations recover from the consequences<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Together, these services allow a <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">consumer law<\/span> attorney to protect their clients\u2019 rights and hold companies accountable.<\/p>\n<p>Consumer lawyers frequently offer <span data-term-id=\"56996767\">free case evaluations<\/span> to help you understand your rights. Many also take cases on a contingency basis. We often see this when there is clear financial harm. It lets your attorney pursue refunds, damages, or settlements for you without requiring upfront payment.<\/p>\n<h2>Finding a <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">Consumer Law<\/span> Attorney Near You<\/h2>\n<p>While you may recognize the value of touching base with a consumer lawyer, finding one you can trust who also has the proper credentials can be difficult. For this reason, FindLaw opened its <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/consumer-protection\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of <span data-term-id=\"56996756\">consumer law<\/span> attorneys<\/a> to the public at no charge. You can use this resource to view background information, ratings, and other details about experts in your area, including those who offer free consultations.<\/p>\n<p>Look for an attorney in your state with experience in cases like yours and arrange a meeting. This is often the first step in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions.html#:~:text=As%20a%20Consumer%2C%20You%20Have%20Rights\">standing up <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/consumer\/consumer-transactions.html#:~:text=As%20a%20Consumer%2C%20You%20Have%20Rights\">to companies<\/a>\u00a0that rely on consumers&#8217; lack of awareness of their rights.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M6 21H3C2.46957 21 1.96086 20.7893 1.58579 20.4142C1.21071 20.0391 1 19.5304 1 19V12C1 11.4696 1.21071 10.9609 1.58579 10.5858C1.96086 10.2107 2.46957 10 3 10H6M13 8V4C13 3.20435 12.6839 2.44129 12.1213 1.87868C11.5587 1.31607 10.7956 1 10 1L6 10V21H17.28C17.7623 21.0055 18.2304 20.8364 18.5979 20.524C18.9654 20.2116 19.2077 19.7769 19.28 19.3L20.66 10.3C20.7035 10.0134 20.6842 9.72068 20.6033 9.44225C20.5225 9.16382 20.3821 8.90629 20.1919 8.68751C20.0016 8.46873 19.7661 8.29393 19.5016 8.17522C19.2371 8.0565 18.9499 7.99672 18.66 8H13Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" 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for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Legal cases for identify theft, scams, or the Equal Credit Opportunity Act require legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    An attorney can enforce your rights for safe products, fair transactions, and legal credit\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    You may not need your own lawyer to join a class action lawsuit\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" 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A lawyer can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum\" title=\"Search Top Lawyers Near You\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745902396\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1\/general-components-subscribe-module-Image-subscribeModule_1.png?_i=AA\"\n                alt=\"\"\n                loading=\"lazy\"\n            \/>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-content fl-flex fl-flex-wrap\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-text fl-mb25\">\n            <h4 class=\"fl-no-margin\">Enter your email address to subscribe<\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <form class=\"email-subscription-content-form\">\n            <input type=\"hidden\" name=\"distributionList\" value=\"latl\" \/>\n            <label for=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" class=\"fl-text-sm-bold\">Email (Required)<\/label>\n            <div class=\"email-subscription-content-form-group\">\n                <input id=\"email-subscription-content-form-group-input\" name=\"email\" autocomplete=\"email\"\/>\n                <button type=\"submit\" aria-label=\"Submit\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-success subscribe-success-message fl-text-sm-bold\" aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"status\">Thank you for subscribing!<\/p>\n            <p class=\"email-subscription-content-form-error subscribe-error-message fl-text-sm-bold\" role=\"alert\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/p>\n\n            <div id=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha\" class=\"email-subscription-content-form-recaptcha subscribe-recaptcha\"\n                data-sitekey=\"0x4AAAAAAABGBEkK9kEeKxO-\"><\/div>\n        <\/form>\n\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-content-footer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p><a href=\"https:\/\/newsletters.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n                        Search Top Lawyers Near You\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer.html\">\n                        Choosing the Right Lawyer\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/do-you-need-a-lawyer.html\">\n                        Do I Need a Lawyer?\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/attorney-fees-and-agreements.html\">\n                        Attorney Fees &#038; Fee Arrangements\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Search Top Lawyers Near You<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/legal-issues\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Full List of Legal Issues<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Consumer protection laws ban unfair business practices like false advertising, scams and fraud. FindLaw explores how consumer rights and an attorney can help you.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":357959,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":["SEO Title Length","Alt Text for All Images","Category Assigned","External Links"]},"categories":[2754],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-357981","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-hirealawyer"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357981","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=357981"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357981\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":402109,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357981\/revisions\/402109"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/357959"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=357981"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=357981"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=357981"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=357981"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=357981"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}