Sarasota Consumer Fraud Lawyer
People are drawn to money and there are many who would go to great lengths to get their hands on it. Some even engage in scrupulous methods such as fraud.
Fraud can happen in many ways. It may be perpetrated by an amateur who engages in a simple ruse or it can be an elaborate scheme run by a professional. The elderly are most likely to be victims of scams and fraud, although it can happen to anyone.
Fraud is a serious issue that can easily part someone of their life savings, and this can impact their dignity and confidence. Protect yourself with a Sarasota consumer fraud lawyer from The Cahall Law Firm PLLC.
Types of Consumer Fraud
There are many types of consumer fraud to be aware of:
- Identity theft. Identity theft is one of the most common forms of identity theft. It occurs when someone’s personal information is compromised, allowing someone to act as the victim. A person’s name, address, Social Security number, credit card number, or other information could get stolen, allowing a third party to open credit cards and loans in your name.
- Credit card fraud. This occurs when someone uses your credit card without authorization or steals your card. There are many tactics that fraudsters may use to get your credit card information. For example, they may engage in skimming, which involves altering equipment at a gas pump in order to steal information from credit cards.
- Wage and overtime violations. Some employees will engage in illegal practices to improve their bottom line. This may mean asking employees to work off the clock or paying them less than minimum wage. Other examples include not paying overtime and withholding checks.
How the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act (FDUTPA) Can Help
This law allows consumers to sue those who engage in misleading or unconscionable practices while engaging in commerce or trade. Under this law, a consumer can be any individual, including a child, as well as a business, corporation, firm, joint venture, partnership, estate, trust, fiduciary, or commercial entity.
The three elements of a FDUTPA claim are:
- A deceptive act or unfair practice. The consumer must prove they were subjected to a deceptive or unfair practice. Such a practice is “likely to mislead” reasonable consumers. The claimant must prove that the practice caused their damages.
- Actual damages. The consumer must show that they suffered damages, such as paying more for a product.
Contact The Cahall Law Firm PLLC Today
Consumer fraud does not usually cause physical harm, but it does lead to significant financial harm. If you have been a victim, you need to fight back and get justice.
The Cahall Law Firm PLLC can help you understand the legal options available. We’ll work hard to get your hard-earned money back. To schedule a consultation with a Sarasota consumer fraud lawyer, fill out the online form or call (941) 281-2019. Call Cahall and get justice.
