What legal remedies are available for victims of consumer fraud?
Victims of consumer fraud in California have legal remedies available to them. The most common legal remedy for consumer fraud is a civil lawsuit. In civil litigation, the victim seeks financial restitution from the wrongdoer, usually through a monetary judgment or settlement. The California Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA) also allows victims of consumer fraud to seek damages. Consumers may seek compensation for the cost of repairing, replacing or refunding of goods, services, or real estate, or for other economic losses. Consumers may also be eligible for additional punitive damages and attorney’s fees. Additionally, the California Unfair Competition Law (UCL) allows victims of consumer fraud to bring a class action lawsuit, which allows large groups of victims to join forces and seek compensation. The UCL also provides a private right of action, meaning victims can file their own lawsuit without having to go through a government agency. Victims of consumer fraud may also seek criminal restitution, which is a court-ordered payment to compensate victims for any financial loss suffered. In cases where the perpetrator is prosecuted, the court may order the wrongdoer to pay restitution to the victim. Finally, the California Department of Justice provides the Bureau of Consumer Protection, which works to protect consumers from deceptive practices. The Bureau of Consumer Protection provides information about consumer rights and how to file a consumer complaint.
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