Consumers today, more than ever, have access to abundant information, large marketplaces, and many sources offering credit for procuring goods and services. This trend introduces potential abusive business practices presenting serious harm to a consumer’s personal, professional, and financial well-being.

Cases of abusive collection practices, false credit reporting, consumer fraud, and identity theft affect everyone in several forms, whether being denied a mortgage loan, turned down for a job or rental application, or laden with an insurmountable amount of debt. It’s important that consumers fully understand the implications and potential remedies for their particular legal issue. Let’s take a look at what our consumer protection law firm in Washington can do for you when you need to file a claim.

What Does a Consumer Protection Lawyer Do?

Consumer protection lawyers specialize in representing clients who are consumers in legal matters relating to their rights as buyers and purchasers. Advocating for consumers against both small businesses and major corporations, consumer protection attorneys help ensure the fair treatment and legal rights of purchasers by businesses. For instance, a law firm with consumer protection expertise, such as By Design Law in Washington, helps with consumer disputes when their clients feel they’ve been harmed by false advertising or have received an inadequate level of service from businesses.

What Types of Cases Do Consumer Protection Lawyers Take Up?

Consumer protection attorneys take on a variety of cases for their clients, providing relief to consumers who feel they’ve been wronged by businesses. 

• False advertising: When businesses engage in advertising practices that deceive or mislead customers, a consumer protection law firm takes legal action for clients. For example, a business might promote a special price for a product but then bait and switch consumers into paying more than the advertised price to get the features they want.

• Product liability: A consumer protection lawyer represents consumers who have been injured or otherwise harmed by products that are defective. They may file suits against distributors, manufacturers, or sellers, depending on who caused the problem. For instance, if a battery pack for a phone explodes, these professionals might seek a settlement from the manufacturer of the product.

• Consumer contracts: A consumer protection law firm provides legal advice to clients when entering into agreements with businesses such as real estate firms. They might also review and challenge terms and conditions that violate consumer rights. Other instances include filing lemon law claims when customers enter into a contract, and the product they purchase is defective.

• Consumer fraud: Consumer disputes involving individuals victimized by fraud, scams, and unfair business practices are most often taken up by consumer protection attorneys. These professionals protect consumer rights by helping them get a settlement that pays them back for financial losses incurred due to a business’ deceptive conduct.

• Debt collection abuse: When debt collectors abuse customers with unfair or aggressive practices, they may violate consumer rights. A law firm specializing in consumer protection claims may seek a settlement by using the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and other federal and Washington state laws to provide relief to consumers.

• Privacy violations: Companies that violate consumer rights relating to privacy may find themselves sued by a consumer protection lawyer. These cases include legal action against major corporations who share customer information without authorization and debt collectors.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Debt in Washington?

The statute of limitations on debt in Washington is six years. This doesn’t, however, mean that debt collectors can’t continue to pursue payment—just that they can’t sue customers for payment after that time elapses. Clients with debt still within the 6-year period may hire a consumer protection lawyer when they want to file for bankruptcy or sue creditors who violate consumer rights in pursuit of owed debt.  

Work With By Design Law for Consumer Representation in Seattle

When you need consumer protection expertise near Seattle, Washington, you can count on By Design Law to help. Our consumer protection attorneys are well-versed in state and federal law, and this helps them help you when you encounter abusive business practices. We explain everything clearly so you understand your rights and potential remedies. Our law firm offers consultations so that we can provide advice specifically geared toward your situation and needs. Contact By Design Law or call our office today at (206) 593-1519 to schedule a complimentary consultation.