Colorado Consumer Fraud Lawyer
In a world where consumer transactions are an integral part of daily life, the unfortunate reality is that consumer fraud can undermine the trust we place in businesses. Indeed, the FTC reports consumer fraud is on the rise, costing consumers an estimated $5.8 billion dollars per year. If you find yourself a victim of consumer fraud or deceptive business practices, securing the services of a seasoned consumer fraud attorney is crucial to protecting your rights and seeking justice. Navigating the complexities of consumer fraud requires expertise, and our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Identifying Consumer Fraud Actions:
Consumer fraud takes various forms, often involving deceptive practices that manipulate individuals into surrendering their money or property. Traditionally, fraud occurs when a party deceives another to obtain property or money. Consider a scenario where a person pays for the installation of a new washing machine, only to be left without the service promised.
Colorado Revised Statute § 6-1-105 outlines several unfair trade practices that constitute violations of the Consumer Protection Act, including:
Misrepresenting used goods as new
Knowingly providing false representations about the nature of goods
Engaging in bait-and-switch advertising
Conceiving or operating a pyramid scheme
Individuals or companies engaging in such practices are subject to state investigations. The Consumer Protection Act empowers customers or potential customers to bring civil lawsuits, demanding compensation for their losses.
Although consumer fraud and deceptive trade practices can take place in any industry, the Consumer Federation of America has identified the following industries as the most problematic:
Auto: Misrepresentations in advertising or sales of new and used cars, deceptive financing practices, defective vehicles, faulty repairs, car leasing and rentals, towing disputes.
Home Improvement/Construction: Shoddy work, failure to start or complete the job, failure to have required licensing or registration. See our practice area page on Construction Defects in Colorado for additional information for common home improvement and construction issues in Colorado.
Landlord/Tenant: Unhealthy or unsafe conditions, failure to make repairs or provide promised amenities, deposit and rent disputes, illegal eviction tactics. See our practice area page on Tenant Right in Colorado for more information on common legal disputes that arise between landlords and tenants.
Credit/Debt: Billing and fee disputes, mortgage problems, credit repair and debt relief services, predatory lending, illegal or abusive debt collection tactics.
Services: Misrepresentations, shoddy work, failure to have required licensing or registration, nonperformance.
Utilities: Complaints about gas, electric, water and cable billing and service.
Retail Sales: False advertising and other deceptive practices, defective merchandise, problems with rebates, coupons, gift cards and gift certificates, failure to deliver.
Travel: Misrepresentations about cost, amenities or other aspects of travel packages, failure to provide promised services, disputes about refunds.
Health Products/Services: Misleading claims, unlicensed practitioners, failure to deliver, billing issues;
Internet Sales: Misrepresentations or other deceptive practices, failure to deliver online purchases.
Compensation in Consumer Fraud Claims
Economic Damages: A successful claimant is entitled to recover the greater of (1) their actual damages and (2) $500.00. In the event that clear and convincing evidence of bad faith conduct on behalf of the defendant is shown, a successful claimant will also be entitled to recover treble damages, or three times the amount of their actual damages.
Attorney Fees and Costs: Under Colorado Revised Statute 6-1-113, a consumer who prevails under the statute is entitled to recover their reasonable attorney fees and costs incurred in prosecuting their claim.
Punitive or Exemplary Damages: While compensation in consumer fraud claims typically covers actual losses, the state recognizes the egregious nature of such acts. Parties bringing claims to civil court may be eligible for exemplary damages under Colorado Revised Statute § 13-21-102. Proving "willful and wanton conduct" on the part of the defendant could make a civil claim of fraud eligible for "treble" damages. This discretionary award aims to address the harm caused by consumer fraud beyond monetary losses and to deter such conduct in the future.
How a Consumer Fraud Attorney Can Assist You
Case Evaluation and Analysis: As a consumer fraud attorney, our first step is to conduct a thorough evaluation of your case. We delve into the details, scrutinizing contracts, transaction records, and any evidence of deceptive practices to build a robust foundation for your claim.
Legal Strategy Tailored to Your Situation: Each consumer fraud case is unique, and our attorneys craft a customized legal strategy to address your specific circumstances. Whether it's negotiating with the opposing party or pursuing litigation, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Representation in Legal Proceedings: If legal action is necessary, our seasoned attorneys provide strong representation throughout the legal process. From filing complaints to navigating court proceedings, we stand by your side, advocating for your rights at every turn.
Why Choose Our Consumer Fraud Attorney?
Proven Track Record: Our consumer fraud attorney has a history of successfully representing clients in consumer fraud cases, securing favorable outcomes.
Client-Centric Approach: We prioritize open communication and collaboration, ensuring you are informed and involved throughout the legal process.
Legal Insight: Staying abreast of evolving consumer protection laws, our team leverages its in-depth knowledge to your advantage.
Conclusion
Consumer fraud should not go unchallenged. If you have suffered harm because of a fraudulent business act, you have the right to seek out compensation. Your rights matter, and we are committed to ensuring they are protected in the face of consumer fraud. Contact an experienced consumer fraud lawyer today to explore your legal options and reclaim control over your consumer rights.