Consumer Protection

Consumer protection laws are designed to ensure fair competition in the marketplace. They also serve another purpose, which is to prevent businesses from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices and gaining an advantage over competitors at the expense of the customer. Massachusetts has a very comprehensive consumer protection statute, which is chapter 93A. This statute provides remedies to both consumers and businesses in the event that a business has conducted unfair or deceptive trade practices. Sometimes the remedy is multiplied up to three times the amount of damages suffered, plus costs and attorney fees.

Massachusetts is a very strict state with regard to regulations that auto dealers must adhere to. This includes “Lemon Laws,” along with auto sale and advertising regulations which auto dealers must adhere to as well. If they do not, it could result in a 93A violation. This could mean that a consumer could be entitled to up to double or triple damages, plus attorney fees and costs paid for.

For questions on whether you have a claim, or if you are a dealer and have questions as to whether you are in compliance with Massachusetts statutes and regulations, call our attorneys today.

Massachusetts consumer protection laws apply to insurance companies as well, with a whole statute dedicated to unfair insurance practices. These laws and regulations restrict the way insurance companies advertise, settle claims and sell policies.

If you have been dealing with an insurance company and feel as though their conduct has been unfair and deceptive, one of our experienced attorneys may be able to help you determine if you have a claim.

Warranties can be either “express” (in writing) or “implied” (that the product is what it purports to be, or that it is fit for a particular purpose). Massachusetts does not allow companies to limit liability for breaches of implied warranty. If you have purchased a product that does not adhere to what the manufacturer either put in writing or advertised, and the manufacturer refuses to compensate you, you may be entitled to additional damages.

Call one of our experienced attorneys today for a free consultation.

When hiring a contractor to build your home, conduct extensive renovations, or even plumbing or electrical work, you are entitled to the work being carried out in a good and workmanlike manner. It could be a violation of Massachusetts consumer protection statute 93A if a contractor does not perform in accordance with various regulations in the course of his or her work, and you may be entitled to multiple damages.

Too many people hire unlicensed contractors, electricians and other home improvement workers only to notice leaks, damage and unsafe hazards on their property later on. If you feel as though your contractor has not performed in a good and workmanlike manner, you should call one of our attorneys to determine if you have a claim.

The Massachusetts Debt Collection Act protects consumers from harassment and abusive debt collection practices. There are limits to the amount of times debt collectors can call you. They may also not call you at work if you request that they do not, nor can they threaten you with legal action if they do not intend to bring it.

If you need assistance with aggressive debt collectors, please do not hesitate to call one of our experienced attorneys today.