Consumer Law: General FAQ

Lawyers.comsm
  • A contractor provides less than what was promised and paid for. Is there any recourse?

  • Are dry cleaners responsible for lost or damaged items?

  • If I just made a purchase and the item goes on sale, does the retailer have to refund the difference?

  • I've purchased an item, but have decided I no longer want it. Doesn't the retailer have to take it back and refund my money?

  • Don't I have a " cooling off period" on all credit transactions?


    Q: A contractor provides less than what was promised and paid for. Is there any recourse?

    A: Most, but not all, states license contractors, so check to see if this is the case in your area. If so, contact the licensing bureau to find out how to complete your complaint against his license and bonding. Follow up with the Better Business Bureau and a local lawyer to see exactly what your rights and remedies are.

    Return to index . . .


    Q: Are dry cleaners responsible for lost or damaged items?

    A: The dry cleaner should work with you on a fair value for a lost item, although that may not mean you'll receive the full replacement cost. If you can't come to an agreement, mediation or small claims court may be an option.

    Determining responsibility for a damaged item may be a bit more difficult. Wearing apparel is covered by the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Care Label Rule. Manufacturers of textile garments sold in the United States must determine the care required for a garment, which all parts can withstand, and attach a permanent, legible care label in a conspicuous place.

    If the cause of the problem is a manufacturing defect, talk with the retailer about the item and any possible refund. If the problem lies with the dry cleaner, speak with them about compensation. Dry cleaners who belong to the International Fabricare Institute or other similar trade organization can request an independent review concerning responsibility for the damage.

    Return to index . . .


    Q: If I just made a purchase and the item goes on sale, does the retailer have to refund the difference?

    A: No. While it may be good business to do so, they aren't required to offer a refund.

    Return to index . . .


    Q: I've purchased an item, but have decided I no longer want it. Doesn't the retailer have to take it back and refund my money?

    A: Generally, no. Most stores have an established policy regarding whether and under what conditions they will accept the return of merchandise, but merchants aren't required by law to accept returns.

    Return to index . . .


    Q: Don't I have a "cooling off period" on all credit transactions?

    A: No. Truth in Lending gives you a chance to change your mind on one important kind of transaction - when you use your home as security for a credit transaction. For example, when you are financing a major repair or remodeling and use your home as security, you have three business days, usually after you sign a contract, to think about the transaction and to cancel it if you wish. The creditor must give you written notice of your right to cancel, and if you decide to cancel, you must notify the creditor in writing within the three-day period. The creditor must then return all fees paid and cancel the security interest in your home. Until the three days are up, a contractor may not start work on your home, and a lender may not pay you or the contractor. If you must have the credit immediately to meet a financial emergency, you may give up your right to cancel by providing a written explanation of the circumstances.

    Return to index . . .
  • Immigration to Labor Law: Every Legal Issue. One Legal Source. Lawyers.com

    intrinsic fraud

    fraud (as by the use of false or forged documents, false claims, or perjured testimony) that deceives the trier of fact and results in a judgment in favor of the party perpetrating the fraud

    Registry law called 'unfair to homeless'; Sex offenders are required to list an address, even if they don't have one.

    Georgia's sex offender registry law should be struck down because it makes homelessness a crime, a lawyer told the state's highest court on Monday.

    In tough times, watch out for scams and for surprises on your bill

    Your 401(k) plan has been shot full of holes. You're worried about your job. With gas prices topping $4 a gallon, you'll have to spend your vacation rediscovering...

    Junk-fax class action lawsuit results in record settlement

    After six years of litigation, the attorneys in a contentious class action lawsuit over "junk" faxes reached a $1.

    More Legal News


    Terms & Conditions   Privacy   Copyright © 2008 LexisNexis, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.