As a consumer, you work hard for your money. Whether you’re saving up to purchase a home, send your kids to college, or buy groceries, how you spend your money should be left to you. However, when you’re taken advantage of by companies, whether it’s refusing to help you with unauthorized ATM transfers or you find yourself a victim of identity theft, you may feel entirely alone. Though this may seem like an isolating time, it’s important to understand how a California consumer lawyer can help you. If you’re unsure of their role in these matters when to contact a consumer defense attorney if you need legal assistance, the following blog can assist you.
What Does a Consumer Defense Attorney Actually Do?
In a world seemingly run by businesses and corporations, consumer defense attorneys play a significant role in enforcing laws and protecting the rights of regular people. The main goal of a consumer defense attorney is to hold companies accountable for unfair practices and violations of the laws in place intended to safeguard consumers.
For example, if you notice an error on your credit report and despite filing a dispute, the credit agency doesn’t take the necessary steps to fix it, you may be at a loss. However, your consumer defense attorney can step in to help ensure the company complies with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. In addition to fighting to have the incorrect information removed from your account, they can also fight for compensation for any damages you may have sustained as a result of their inaction.
Similarly, if you are a victim of identity theft, getting your life back in order can be overwhelming. Not only can they help you navigate the process of resecuring your identity, but they can hold the negligent parties liable for the damages you’ve sustained. For example, if your information was compromised in a data breach, your attorney can help you file a claim against the party for their lack of proper security. In addition, they can help you resecure your information to prevent this theft from happening again.
When Should I Contact a Lawyer?
Generally, anytime you believe you are a victim of consumer law violations, connecting with an experienced attorney is in your best interest. Trying to fight large corporations and companies for the justice you deserve can feel like a “David and Goliath” situation. However, having an attorney to assist you in the process can make the fight for justice much less overwhelming.
Typically, if you believe you are the victim of identity theft or a credit error, the first thing you should do is contact the credit reporting agency. You should first file a dispute for any incorrect information on your report or ask them to place a credit freeze on your report to prevent an identity thief from opening additional accounts in your name. Once you have taken these initial steps, you should contact an experienced consumer defense attorney. If you’re dealing with a particularly aggressive debt collector, you should gather evidence of any violations of the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) before reaching out to an attorney.
