Melbourne Consumer Protection Lawyer

Florida businesses have a legal and ethical obligation to deal with their customers in good faith. Unfortunately, we all know that is not how things work in the real world. Many businesses engage in unfair, deceptive, and outright fraudulent practices that cost innocent consumers real money.

A qualified Melbourne consumer protection lawyer can help you take a stand against such unscrupulous businesses. At the Pendas Law Firm, we represent consumers throughout Brevard County who have been the victim of illegal business practices. We can review your case, inform you of your rights under the law, and fight on your behalf for appropriate compensation.

Knowing Your Rights Under Federal and State Laws

There are numerous federal and Florida state laws that deal with consumer protection. Some of the more common statutes we deal with include:

• The Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act. The FDUTPA prohibits deceptive advertising, false statements, and other deceptive behavior in connection with trade or commerce. A consumer may seek actual damages for their losses in connection with any unfair or deceptive trade practice under the FDUTPA.
• Florida “Lemon Laws”. A “lemon” is a term commonly used to refer to a defective car. Florida’s Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act, also called a “lemon law,” allows consumers to sue a dealer if their vehicle has a substantial defect that becomes apparent within a certain time limit after purchase. A consumer may seek the replacement of the vehicle or a refund of the purchase price (less offsets for reasonable usage).
• Fair Credit Reporting Act. The FCRA is a federal statute–formally Title VI of the Consumer Credit Protection Act–that limits the use of information collected by credit bureaus and other consumer reporting agencies. The FCRA requires agencies to give you access to your credit report and limits third-party access to those businesses with a valid need, such as banks or landlords. You also have the right to dispute any inaccuracies in your credit report and demand its removal.
• Truth in Lending Act. Title I of the federal Consumer Credit Protection Act, also known as the Truth in Lending Act, requires creditors to make certain written disclosures to consumers in connection with credit transactions. For example, a creditor must provide accurate information regarding the annual percentage rate and repayment terms of a loan, credit card, or mortgage.
• Interest Rate Limits. Florida law restricts the maximum amount of interest that state-licensed banks can charge on loans. Charging an unlawful interest rate can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or felony in some cases.

Contact the Pendas Law Firm Today

Many Florida residents are unaware of their rights under their rights under the various consumer protection laws. Indeed, it is often impossible for any person inexperienced in these laws to keep track of all of them. That is why it is important to work with an experienced Melbourne consumer protection lawyer who can offer you advice tailored to your situation.

So if you feel that you have been wronged by a Florida business and need advice on what steps to take next, contact the Pendas Law Firm today to schedule an initial consultation.