As a consumer, you may find that your legal rights are under siege. The more automated and advanced the economy becomes, the more that corporations and businesses may try to push you around. There are strict federal and state laws that protect you as a consumer. If these rights have been violated, you have the ability to push back.
A consumer law attorney knows the full scope and extent of the laws that are in place for your benefit. They can speak on your behalf, both when you are dealing with the company and when you are filing a lawsuit. If you find yourself in need of assistance, reach out today to schedule a free case review.
Federal Consumer Protection Laws
Here are some of the many laws that are in place, both on the federal and state level, to protect you:
- Fair Credit Reporting Act – This federal law requires both accuracy and transparency in your credit reports. Both the credit bureaus and entities reporting negative credit information can be legally responsible for incorrect reporting.
- Fair Debt Collection Practices Act – There are limits on the means and methods that debt collectors can use when trying to recover money owed
- Telephone Consumer Protection Act – Telemarketers are prohibited from contacting you without your consent if you are on a Do-Not-Call registry.
- Truth in Lending Act – Consumers are protected from predatory and unfair lending practices, both with regard to interest rates and fees.
Mississippi Consumer Protection Laws
In addition to federal consumer protection laws, Mississippi also has its own Consumer Protection Act. The state’s law prohibits “unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive trade practices or acts in the conduct of any trade or commerce.”
Here are some things that may be prohibited under Mississippi law:
- Misrepresenting certain crucial characteristics of consumer goods
- Misrepresenting the standard, quality, or grade of products
- False or misleading advertising
- Falsely claiming that certain goods are new
In addition, there are special protections that apply when you are buying a car. Mississippi has its own lemon laws that give you protection for one year after the sale when the vehicle does not conform with all applicable express warranties that significantly affect the use, market value, or safety of the vehicle.
However, Mississippi state law is not particularly strong when it comes to consumer rights. You can only file a lawsuit against a business for a breach of the law under limited circumstances.
