How to Hire a Lemon Law Attorney
Consumer Rights Motor Vehicle Defect and Lemon Law
Summary: If you live in California, you may be eligible for a replacement or a refund. Otherwise known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, California's lemon law mandates that manufacturers replace or refund consumers for defective vehicles after the purchaser attempts a reasonable number of repairs.
Have you purchased a new
vehicle with a major defect? If you live in California, you may be eligible for
a replacement or a refund. Otherwise known as the Song-Beverly Consumer
Warranty Act, California's lemon law mandates that manufacturers
replace or refund consumers for defective vehicles after the purchaser attempts
a reasonable number of repairs. Some manufacturers may fail to comply with the
Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, but with an attorney's help, it's possible
to hold them accountable.
Why
Work with a Lemon Law Lawyer?
Going into litigation
without an attorney will certainly put the consumer at a disadvantage. For a
consumer, litigation is often unfamiliar territory. Manufacturers, on the other
hand, have legal teams dedicated to gaining favorable terms in litigation.
A skilled attorney can
help you reach a more favorable settlement while shouldering the burden of the
stressful claims process. Manufacturers must cover your court costs and
attorney fees if they lose the case, but some lemon law attorneys cover these
expenses if the manufacturer wins. In other words, there is little risk and
much to gain when teaming up with a reputable attorney.
Signs
of a Quality Lemon Law Attorney
Responsive
An ideal lemon law
attorney will respond quickly to client requests for information via phone,
email, or in person. Having an attorney that is responsive and attentive to
your needs is extremely important, not only for a client’s peace of mind, but
also for the success of a claim.
Thorough and
Detail-Oriented
When preparing for a
claim, lemon law attorneys conduct a thorough investigation. An attorney must
explore every possible avenue, including retrieving documents from mechanics,
records of vehicle problems and depositions, if necessary. A thorough,
detail-oriented attorney can find valuable evidence in the discovery process to
use as leverage that they can present during a settlement or in court.
Strategic
A skilled lemon law attorney
understands the mindset of a manufacturer’s legal team. Attorneys anticipate
what the other side will do and they use their experience and expertise to
predict which approach will be the most effective for their client. A good
lemon law lawyer knows that each case is different, and they cater their
approach to meet the demands of their clients.
Aggressive
Clients need an attorney
that is assertive in all stages of a claim. If an attorney establishes a
presence in the early stages of a claim, manufacturers will often take notice
and the matter can be resolved before litigation is necessary. For example, if
an attorney presents a strong initial demand letter, it can have a big impact
on a claim; a strongly-worded letter can convince the manufacturer can prove
that a claim will be successful in litigation, paving the path to a quick and
favorable settlement.
Finding
the Right Attorney
A strong legal team can
make all the difference in a challenging California lemon law claim. It is
critical that you vet all prospective attorneys during your search. Browse
different attorneys’ websites to determine candidates' background in lemon
law. Client reviews offer excellent insight into communication style and legal
approach.
Many attorneys offer free
consultations. If possible, schedule an in-person consultation to learn more
about your attorney's communication style and approach to consumer law. During
the consultation, ask about the attorney's experience, willingness to
cover fees in the event of a disappointing verdict, and the likelihood of a
favorable outcome for your case.
On
the Hunt for a Skilled Lemon Law Attorney? Contact Neale & Fhima Today.
If you believe you've
purchased a lemon vehicle, the right attorney could help you secure an
impressive settlement. Call (949) 661-1007 to talk to our lemon law
attorneys and request a free consultation.