In California, consumers are protected by a complex web of state and federal laws, which are primarily designed to safeguard individuals from unfair, deceptive, or abusive business practices. These laws also regulate how companies communicate with consumers and collect debts. If you are the victim of underhanded or aggressive practices, KV LAW, P.C. can help.
Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act limits how businesses may contact consumers by phone, text message, or fax. It restricts unsolicited robocalls and automated messages, particularly to mobile phones, without prior consent. Consumers may have legal claims when businesses repeatedly contact them despite requests to stop or use prohibited automated dialing systems.
Deceptive Business Practices & False Advertising
Sometimes consumers are misled by “bait-and-switch” tactics or dishonest marketing. California law is strict regarding how products are labeled, priced, and sold.
- False Advertising: includes misleading claims about a product’s quality, origin, or benefits.
- Deceptive Pricing: includes fake “original prices,” hidden fees, or “free offers” that are not actually free.
- The Consumers Legal Remedies Act (CLRA): the CLRA is a powerful tool to stop unfair methods of competition.
Debt Collection & Credit Reporting
Harassment by debt collectors and inaccuracies on credit reports can derail your financial future. Depending on your circumstances, there are laws that can help you fight back.
- Fair Debt Collection Practices (FDCPA and Rosenthal Act): includes putting a stop to illegal harassment, threats, or robocalls from third-party collectors and original creditors.
- Credit Reporting Errors (FCRA): including correcting inaccurate information on your credit report that lenders, landlords, or employers may use against you.
- California’s Unfair Competition Law (Business & Professions Code section 17200 et seq.): broadly prohibits “unlawful, unfair, or fraudulent” business acts or practices. These laws generally act as a “catch-all” to protect the public from evolving corporate misconduct.
Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA)
RESPA protects consumers during real estate transactions by requiring transparency in the mortgage servicing processes. It restricts kickbacks and regulates the way loan servicers handle aspects of escrow accounts.
Truth in Lending Act (TILA)
The Truth in Lending Act requires lenders to clearly disclose key loan terms, including interest rates, fees, and repayment obligations.
Talk to KV LAW, P.C. Today
These laws, regulations, and statutes provide consumers with significant protections, but not everyone understands how to use them to their advantage. Reach out to learn how Kris Vartanian can help with your rights and potentially help you seek compensation if your rights have been violated.