Quick Contact

Name *

Phone *

Email *

Tell us more *

The Consumer Law Group, P.C.
5905 West Broad Street, Suite 303
Richmond, Va. 23230
Phone: 804-282-7900
Fax: 804-673-0316
Get Directions

News

more >

Library

more >

Case Results

Awarded: $34,000 in punitive damages

Awarded: Over $114,500

Misrepresentation costly for Norfolk dealership

Awarded: $114,400

Auto Fraud Case Results
Yo-Yo Sale Results in Allegations of Fraud, Violation of the Virginia Consumer Protection Act, Violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and Equal Credit Opportunity Act
GM Dealer Settles Fraud Case After Two Mistrials

Awarded: Confidential

Dealership Settles Case on Automobile Fraud, Violation of VA Consumer Protection Act, and The Federal Odometer Act.

Awarded: $57,000

more >

The Consumer Law Group, P.C.

On the page below you can find links to documents, reports, publications and discussions provided by The Consumer Law Group, P.C.. As an attorney with years of experience practicing Virginia Lemon Law, Auto Fraud, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Credit Fraud, Identity Theft and Debt Settlement; we have acquired expertise in a number of areas.

The documents below are available to the public so that they can gain a better understanding of the legal challenges facing them, and why an experienced attorney is so important for success.

Library Categories:

Virginia Lemon Law:

Take the Virginia Lemon Law Test
Take the Virginia Lemon Law test to see if your vehicle qualifies under the Virginia Lemon Law.
HYUNDAI BUYERS BEWARE
The Hyundai warranty manual contains a binding arbitration clause, which you do not want.

View All

Debt Settlement:

Debt Settlement Questionnaire [PDF]
Help with your debts! Get started by printing and filling out this form. Mail to: The Consumer Law Group, 5905 West Broad Street, Suite 303, Richmond, VA 23230

View All

Virginia Lemon Law Articles:

Why the Dealer Won't Help Me: by Greg Artim
You purchase your dream car after years of saving to afford it. Then, something goes wrong. You take the vehicle in to the Dealer's Service Department and are met with a "Who Cares?" attitude.
Class Action Lawsuit Over Ford's Arbitrary Cutting of Warranty Reimbursement Charges at Ford Dealerships: by Robert F. Brennan, Esq.
There is a class action lawsuit filed by Ford dealership mechanics themselves against Ford Motor Corp. Evidently Ford Motor Corp. has arbitrarily cut the "SLTS" (service labor time standards) for various warranty repairs and services by up to 30%, according to the allegations made on the mechanics' website.
What You Need To Know About The Lemon Law: by Terry Dunn
The Lemon Law offers consumers protection against defects in the car and gives them the right to demand for replacement or refund.
Virginia Lemon Law: By Peter Gitundu
Virginia lemon law is a legislation that helps consumers who are in crisis when they realize that they bought a lemon from a manufacturer.
The Lemon Laws: by Greg Artim
A Lemon, by definition, is a defective vehicle. All states have Lemon Laws that provide protection to you in the event that you have purchased a lemon. These laws vary from state to state, but all have common themes.
New Car Troubles? - Legal Tips: by Greg Artim
If your new car has a problem, schedule a service appointment with the dealer right away. Make sure that the service department is made aware of each and every problem that the vehicle is having.
The Lemon Law
The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act or federal lemon law protects every state but they vary by state.
Lemon Law Tips
6 Recommendations from Top Lemon Law Experts
Lemon Laws Equals Protecting Your Rights
Protect your rights under the Lemon Law
EIGHT THINGS TO DO WHEN BUYING CARS
Eight Tips For Buying Cars

View All

Virginia Lemon Law Case Results:

Lemon Law Case Results Against Chrysler LLC
See a sample of Lemon Law case results that involve Chrysler vehicles.
Virginia Lemon Law Case Results
Recent Virginia Lemon Law settlements that John Cole Gayle, Jr. has obtained.
Lemon Law Case Results Against Ford
See a sample of Lemon Law case results that involve Ford vehicles.
Lemon Law Case Results Against General Motors Corporation
See a sample of Lemon Law case results that involve General Motor Corporation vehicles.

View All

Auto Fraud:

CLAIMS AGAINST A DEALERSHIP THAT GOES OUT OF BUSINESS
When a dealership goes out of business, what should a consumer do about their claims? Often this question comes up when a dealership closes and vehicles that were traded in on the purchase of another car have liens that never get paid off by the dealer.
Consumer Beware of Automobile Fraud As You Shop for a Vehicle
There are many opportunities for fraud and dirty dealing in buying a vehicle. The consumer needs to be aware of different types of automobile fraud as you shop for a vehicle.
Consumer Law: Beware of the Spot Delivery Technique.
Increasingly, buyers are signing purchase papers and driving away in their new cars, only to find out that the financing they agreed on didn’t fall into place! At that point, the consumer is usually told that they must either return the car, unless you want the car to be repossessed, or sign up for sub-par financing at a very high interest rate per year. The consumer should know the law and beware of the spot delivery technique.
Consumer Law: The Virginia Consumer Protection Act
Know your rights under The Virginia Consumer Protection Act.
EIGHT THINGS TO DO WHEN BUYING CARS
Eight Tips For Buying Cars

View All

Auto Fraud Articles:

Buying Used Cars - Top 10 Dealership Scams: by admin!!
A dealer will charge you for window etching and they will tell you that you have to pay the money to get the loan because the banks insists on it. Some dealers might tell you that the etching is free but will add on the etch money to your monthly payments to make up for it. The best way to avoid this scam is to force the dealer to put it in writing if they say that the etching is free or simply etch the car yourself. Remember a lender doesn't require that you purchase any extras on a car. All the lender cares about is that you can make your payments on time regularly. Don't buy into it.
Auto Repair Fraud and How to Avoid It: By Sammy Beanard
Given the sophisticated equipment in most automobiles today, it is no wonder that consumers find themselves at the mercy of auto repair shops, and are often left wondering whether the $500 they just spent for repairs was necessary, or was it just money that was wasted?
The Trouble With Carfax: By Louis M. Green, Attorney at Law
This article about Carfax and the problems with depending on it too much. Your report may only be worth a little more than the paper it's written on.
Tips on How to Spot a Flood-Damaged Vehicle
NADA offers 10 inspection tips that may be used to detect significant water damage.
CONSUMER WATCH: The downside of Voluntary Repossession
In a Richmond Times Dispatch article, Iris Taylor wrote about the downside of voluntary repossession. John Cole Gayle, Jr. of The Consumer Law Group was quoted in the article.
Car Dealer Scams Used to Get Your Money and How to Avoid Them: by Steve Faber
If you are aware of some of the dealer scams, you can prepare for them and turn the tables.
How to Avoid Auto Repair Fraud: By Perry Gibson
Going to an auto repair facility is something many people would prefer to avoid. Not only is it expensive and inconvenient but there is also the risk of being a victim of auto repair fraud.
Should I purchase a vehicle AS IS?: by Greg Artim
AS IS is a legal term that means that you are making a purchase of "something", and that "something" offers no warranties whatsoever as to quality, fitness, usefulness or value. What you see is what you get.
Legal questions to ask before buying a Used Vehicle: by Greg Artim
Purchasing a used vehicle is a large undertaking. There are several things that you need to know, ask or do before signing on the dotted line.
Rebuilt Wrecks Emerging Threat To Car Buyers: by admin
Buying a rebuilt - but not properly repaired - wreck of a car could wreck your finances. A new study by Carfax shows that millions of cars severely damaged in major accidents have been rebuilt and are up for sale.
The Smart Consumer's Guide to Buying a Used Car by Robert F. Brennan, Esq.
A friend of John Cole Gayle, Jr.’s, and very good lawyer in California, wrote the following article that he highly recommends to you. All are very good points, especially the requirement that the dealer print on your warranty that it inspected the vehicle and found no damage. If the dealer balks or refuses to do so, just walk away.
Tips On Dealing With Auto Fraud
The auto industry and their dealers are rife with scams and fraud and the potential buyer needs to be armed with the knowledge of how these scams work and how to avoid them.
10 Top Tips for Inspecting a Used Car
When buying used cars, you should first inspect it. Here are some items to look for during an inspection.
Tips On Buying A Used Vehicle by admin
Whether you're in the market for a used car, truck, van or SUV, the key to finding a good vehicle involves looking into its past.
Do Not Be a Dealership Victim
A dealership sold a customer a "certified, pre-owned vehicle” and led the buyer to believe that the car had been thoroughly inspected for safety, reliability, and overall quality. Following the purchase of the vehicle, it was learned that the vehicle had in reality been in a serious accident and sold for thousands of dollars more than its true value.

View All

Auto Fraud Case Results:

Car Dealership Pays Over $114,500 For Fraud In Selling Wrecked Vehicle
Misrepresentations Costly For Norfolk Dealership
Auto Fraud: Prior Wrecked Vehicle - Settled for $52,000
Our client alleges that the prior accident history, damage, and repairs to the vehicle were known, or should have been known, prior to selling the vehicle to him, but were never disclosed to him prior to his purchase of the vehicle. Our client alleges that these repairs were obvious to anyone inspecting the vehicles in the auto purchase industry.
The Consumer Law Group - “Rebuilt” Vehicles - Auto Fraud Case
Two different plaintiffs had auto fraud cases against a major insurance company. In both cases, the vehicles purchased were involved in a prior collision.
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: SALE OF CAR, WRECKED TWICE BEFORE
A vehicle was sold to the Plaintiff and the dealership did not disclose any prior wreck damage.
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: Sale of Salvaged Vehicle Without Notice
A franchise dealership purchased a vehicle several days prior to its purchase by the Plaintiffs. Prior to the dealership purchasing the vehicle, it had ben issued four different titles.
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: Prior Wrecked Vehicle
A dealership sold a previously wrecked vehicle to our clients.
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: Used Vehicle Sold As New
This was a case of a used vehicle sold as new.
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: Vehicle Repossession
This lawsuit is about an often fraudulent practice in the automobile sales industry called a "yo-yo sale" or a "spot delivery".
The Consumer Law Group Case Result: Certified Pre-owned Scam
Two cases where the vehicles were sold as “Certified Pre-Owned” vehicles.

View All

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA):

Contact us and we will send you a copy of the letter to send to your Debt Collector, we will explain how the whole process works, and we can help you send the letter if needed.
Are you being harassed by a Debt Collector? We can help you. One step is to send a Cease and Desist Letter.
Stop Debt Collector from harassing you now!
Are you the victim of a debt collector? FREE help!
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) - Questionnaire [PDF]
Fair Debt Questionnaire.
Follow Up Letter For Debt Validation When First Letter Is Ignored
Here is a sample letter to use when the first debt validation letter is ignored. Be sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records, and send the second letter by certified mail with a return receipt.
Letter For Debt Validation
In accordance with the FDCPA, you have the right to request for a validation of your debt. This letter is asking for proof regarding this and verifying the same. You may use the following sample letter to ask for this proof. Be sure to keep a copy of the letter for your records, and send the letter by certified mail with a return receipt.

View All

FDCPA Articles:

Debt-relief companies getting new FTC rules By Iris Taylor | TIMES-DISPATCH COLUMNIST Published: August 29, 2010
New rules for debt companies Ever been ripped off by a debt settlement company?

Good news: The Federal Trade Commission has issued new rules that will crack down on that industry's worst practices soon.
The $555,000 Student-Loan Burden: by Mary Pilon - Provided by THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
Provided by THE WALL STREET JOURNAL: When Michelle Bisutti, a 41-year-old family practitioner in Columbus, Ohio, finished medical school in 2003, her student-loan debt amounted to roughly $250,000. Since then, it has ballooned to $555,000.
How Can I Better Deal with Debt Collectors? by Liz Roberts
Dealing with debt collectors can be nerve-wracking. When Imagine how you would feel if you have to answer calls even during inconvenient hours. In this article, we will discuss the positive steps that you can do when dealing with debt collectors.
Dealing with Collection Agencies: by Dom Estable
According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Americans have rights even when they are behind on their bills.
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act: by Anthony and Maricar Wing
In the USA the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (also known as the FDCPA) is a law that was added in 1978, which protects people in financial trouble from debt collectors that use illegal methods to extract money from people. It also provides an avenue for consumers to contest any information that is not correct that may be on their record. This extract gives an overview as we understand it although it is brief and we do not warrant the accuracy of the information.
How Long Can Old Debt Follow You?: by Vincent Polisi
If you have an old debt that you are unable to pay, you may be worried that it is going to haunt you forever! The good news is that for most debts, there is a statute of limitations which prevents lenders from hounding you for something that happened 20 years ago! The only debts that have no statue of limitations are income tax debt, federal student loans and child support.
How To Handle Debt Collectors: by Michael Redbourn
Most debt collectors are very experienced and they know the law as it relates to their job, whereas most debtors are inexperienced, don't know the law and are therefore easy to trick, and to intimidate. So if you're afraid to answer your phone because you're worried that the call will be from a collection agency, then it's vitally important that you know what to say to them, and what not to say to them, and more importantly that you know what you can sign, and what you definitely mustn't sign.
FDCPA - Facts That You Should Know About It: By Jason Holmes
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act or FDCPA was developed in order to protect consumers from being harassed by the collection agencies. The FDCPA was passed to provide guidelines of debt collection.
The Statue Of Limitations On Debt - Step-By-Step by Michael Redbourn
The first and perhaps the most important thing to understand about the Statute Of limitations On Debt, is that although debt collectors and creditors are allowed to contact you about a debt that you still owe forever, they can only sue you for it for a certain amount of time.
How to Stop Ongoing Harassment From a Collection Agency: by Frank Sullivan
Discover how to quickly and effectively stop constant phone calls, letters and ongoing harassment by persistent creditors, debt collectors and collection agencies without much effort, time and money.
How The Debt Collection Act Affects You: by Alan King
If you are being traced and hunted by debt collection companies/agencies, you ought to acquaint yourself with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. This act protects consumers from being mistreated by debt collectors.
Bill Collectors and Old Debt Be Careful What You Say by Chris A Smith
Some bill collectors are trying to optimize the collection process by going after people who are currently financially healthy but have an old unpaid debt from years back. These old credit contracts are inexpensive for the agency to buy and the collection process is highly automated. Bill collectors are counting on a sense of moral obligation or just ignorance on the part of the debtor.
Collection Agency Procedure To Collect Unpaid Debt - Basic Debt Collection Techniques: by K D Garrow
People are often very frightened or intimidated by Debt Collection Agencies, often because they are not sure about the powers these companies have.

View All

FDCPA Case Results:

Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) Case Results
Recent FDCPA case results that John Cole Gayle, Jr. has obtained.

View All

Credit Fraud & Identity Theft:

3 Major Consumer Reporting Agencies
To order copies or to dispute your credit reports, write to each of the three major Consumer Reporting Agencies.

View All

Credit Fraud & Identity Theft Articles:

How to Report Identity Theft: by Joe Farinaccio
Many police departments don't want to deal with identity theft. If your local police resist the idea of filling out an official police report then politely insist.
Identity Theft Crime
Identity theft crime is becoming more widespread all the time. There are many ways criminals obtain your personal information. Here are some ways to prevent it as well as what you should do after the fact if it happens to you.
‘FREE’ CREDIT REPORTS - BEWARE OF ADD-ONS
Consumer Reports magazine reported the following information in their August, 2007 issue.
How To Avoid Credit Fraud & Identiy Theft
What are some ways to avoid Credit Fraud & Identity Theft?
Reporting Identity Theft: by Joe Farinaccio
After contacting the 3 big credit reporting agencies and informing them of identity fraud, a victim needs to begin the process of clearing up any fraudulent records generated by the identity thief. This usually involves obtaining a police report.
Protecting Yourself From Identity Thieves: by Janet F Henderson
Identity theft analyst says that the looseness of personal information shared between credit card bureaus and third parties in the US makes it easier for identity thieves to highjack someone else's confidential information.
Building A Better Credit Record: by a-1credit
Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information such as your name, Social Security number, credit card number or other identifying information, without your permission to commit fraud or other crimes. Read how thieves get your personal information and how the thieves will use your personal information.
How to Stop Identity Theft: by Joe Farinaccio
To stop identity theft you need to offer credit reporting agencies proof that fraudulent accounts are actually fraudulent.
Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft: by Jon Arnold
Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in the world today. There are several steps you can take to ensure that you are protected as much as possible.
Reporting Identity Theft to Credit Bureaus: by Kristy Annely [PDF]
There are steps you can adopt to minimize the risk of falling victim to identity theft fraud. This article was found on www.EzineArticles.com.
What to Do If Wallet is Stolen: by Joe Farinaccio
A stolen wallet is a problem. But you'll have bigger problems if it turns into full-blown identity theft.
How to Deal With a Stolen Identity: by Joe Farinaccio
Fixing a stolen identity means giving your attention to all the companies where you have credit accounts.
Unauthorized Access of Credit Reports: Your Rights Under the Law- by Robert F. Brennan, Esq.
Your credit report is your private financial information. You have an absolute right to keep it private.
Free Resources to Help Fight Identity Theft: by Jason Shafer
By using these free resources you can help eliminate yourself from becoming one of the millions of victims of identity theft each year.
Protecting Yourself From Identity Theft is Impossible: By Jayson Hahn
Read about different techniques that fraudsters are using to steal innocent consumers identities, and ways to protect yourself from each.
Checking Your Credit File - Important Points
Many people are unaware of the importance of their credit file. Your credit file contains information relating you your financial obligations and transactions, and the file is used by lenders and other agencies when deciding whether to give you credit.
Credit Report Repair
A Credit Report determines your financial status and eligibility for a loan and other types of credits. The credit reports, however, may include some errors. It is very essential to get your credit report free of all these errors.
Identity Theft Repair - How to Fix the Damage
Identity theft is an ever increasing problem in our modern society. Read how to fix the damage.
How to Prevent Identity Theft - Take Charge [PDF]
Ways to Prevent Identity Theft

View All

General:

Know what your contract says
What happens when your contractor wants to change the price after the contract is signed? Are they required to do the work for the price in the original contract? 12 On Your Side looked into a homeowner's complaint.

It depends on what's spelled out in the contract. In this case though, a consumer law attorney says, no.

View All

General:

Follow the Money To Become a Savvier Shopper. By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor
"Follow the money," is good advice for someone trying to understand the hidden side of any business. Nowhere is this more important than on a car lot. Rows of shiny new cars on a dealer's lot make consumers believe that's where the big money is. But if you follow the trail of dollars, it leads in a surprising direction. And knowing where the profit is will make you a better shopper.
Why It's Easier to Buy a Car Now: by Joseph B. White Sweet deals -- 0% interest, no down payment -- for drivers with good credit.
Provided by: THE WALL STREET JOURNAL. Car dealers, auto finance companies and credit market analysts are seeing a decided spring thaw in the auto finance market -- especially for drivers with good credit.
This article was provided by U.S. News & World Report
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you should never buy a car on impulse. The buying process takes time, research, careful thought and even some strategy.
Electric Vehicles: GM Goes Electric: by Michael Waterman & Katrina Ramser
GM’s future is directly tied to electric vehicles. At least that’s the sense you received listening to Bob Lutz, vice chairman of GM, deliver the Motor Press Guild keynote speech at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.
What Not To Say When Buying A Car: By Hannah Elliott
It's easy to get excited by a new car. But if you want a chance at getting a good deal on one of the 2010 models, keep that enthusiasm to yourself. It's the only way to walk out of the showroom with your dignity--and your wallet--intact
New Models Stir Car Buyers by Jim Ostroff, Associate Editor, The Kiplinger Letter
Auto dealers are growing more encouraged about revving up sales next year. Showroom traffic is picking up, and not just from folks lured by the cash for clunkers program.
How To Decode Your Car's VIN: By Matt Hardigree
The Vehicle Information Number (VIN) plate on cars is a clever way to communicate everything about a car. It's worth pointing out that many dealerships will make keys based on a VIN that you give them. It's been recommended that you cover the windshield VIN.
Tips on Choosing the Right Vehicle: by Brenda Williams
The answers to some questions should help you in your decision for the best suited vehicle for your needs.
Unscrupulous And Dishonest Car Dealers: by Robert W. Smith, Sr.
While many auto dealers are completely honest there are a significant number of scams you should be on the lookout for even if you believe the dealer has a spotless reputation.
Summary of the Virginia Lemon Law
What is the Virginia Lemon Law and how does it work?
Sample Letter to put the Manufacturer on Notice to Buyback your Vehicle Under the Virginia Lemon Law.
View a sample of The Consumer Law Group's letter to put the manufacturer on notice under the Virginia Lemon Law.
The Virginia Motor Vehicle Warranty Enforcement Act
Read the Virginia Lemon Law
Instructions on How to Give Notice to the Manufacturer for a Virginia Lemon Law Buyback
Instructions on How to Give Notice to the Manufacturer Under the Virginia Lemon Law
Virginia Lemon Law - Addresses for Automobile Manufacturers
Under the Virginia Lemon Law, you first need to put the manufacturer on notice. Your warranty book should have the proper address to write to the manufacturer.
What Everybody Ought to Know About Buying Used Cars: by Terry Bolton
Finding a used car that's in good condition can be frustrating if you don't know the best places to look. It takes research to find out where you can get the best deal.
6 Great Tips for Buying a Car: by Mike Boudet
Whether you're looking to purchase your first car or possibly your last, a few tips could save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
Planning on Buying a Used Car?: by Brenda Williams
If you plan on buying a used car and you've never bought one before then you should make sure that you do your research on the topic and don't rush into buying the very first car that you notice as it usually isn't the best decision for choosing a used car.
Purchasing a Pre-Owned Vehicle: by Shane Rethwisch
Although buying a used car can be a fun experience, for some people it will be overwhelming. The process of buying a new car will be slow because of the abundance of cars. Making sure that you know what to seek in a used car will make the process go more smoothly.
How to Avoid Car Dealership Scams: by Derek Hudson
If you're planning to purchase a vehicle, either used or new, you need to be an aware and informed consumer. While the majority of car dealers are honest and sincere suppliers, there are scams out there that could cost you big money.
How to spot a lemon: provided by ConsumerReports.org
Finding a trouble-free used car has nothing to do with luck and everything to do with applying good research and investigative skills.
Car Purchase Procedure
If you are planning on buying a car, it requires a lot of consideration and research as it is a big investment to make.
Dealing With a Dealer For a New Car
You've seen a great car that you want to buy. Unless you do your homework, you will never get the deal you want for buying your dream car.
Financing Your New Car
You can get a good deal for a car loan by maintaining an excellent credit score. Getting a good deal for financing your car involves low interest rates and monthly payments to the finance company that will not adversely impact your budget.
10 Common Car-Buying Mistakes
As reported in Consumer Reports, read about car-buying mistakes. The consumer will be protected under the law.
Five Tips For Buying a Used Car
One of the most difficult and important of skills to master is that of buying a reliable used car. These tips are aimed at helping you learn to find a reliable used car instead of a piece of junk.
Car Buying Scams
This article details a few sales tactics that you may want to be on the lookout for the next time you purchase a new automobile.
Tips For Buying Your First Car
Some things you should consider when buying your first car.
Can You Answer These 10 Important Questions About Repossed (Repo) Car Auctions?
Information about Repossed Car Auctions
TEN TOP TIPS FOR CAR BUYERS: By Remar Sutton
EIGHT TIPS FOR BUYING CARS
Eight Car Buying Tips
Car Buying Tips:
Follow the tips below for a better car buying experience.
Client's Bill of Rights
If you decide to retain The Consumer Law Group, you can expect the following rights.
Lemon Law Intake Form
If you think that your vehicle is a Lemon, please send us your information.

View All

©2012 The Consumer Law Group, P.C., All Rights Reserved, Reproduced with Permission Privacy Policy
Attorney web design by Foster Web Marketing, the best attorney website design solution on the Web offering search engine optimization for attorneys, lawyer website design, video for attorneys, and more.
Get SEO Tips from The Attorney Internet Marketing Blog