Unfair Trade and Deceptive Practices
Unfair trade and deceptive practices can undermine consumer trust and harm businesses that engage in honest commerce. These practices involve actions that mislead, deceive, or defraud consumers, often resulting in financial harm or loss. At Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon, we provide legal guidance to individuals and businesses in Asheville, Waynesville, and throughout Western North Carolina, helping to address and rectify instances of unfair trade and deceptive practices.
What Constitutes Unfair Trade and Deceptive Practices?
Unfair trade practices refer to activities that provide businesses with an unfair advantage or harm competitors and consumers. Deceptive practices typically involve misleading claims or fraudulent representations. Common examples of these practices include:
- False advertising: Misleading consumers about the quality, origin, or price of a product or service.
- Bait-and-switch tactics: Advertising a product at a low price but then attempting to sell a more expensive item once the consumer is engaged.
- Misrepresentation of goods or services: Providing false information about the features, benefits, or functionality of a product or service.
- Failure to disclose important information: Omitting key details about a transaction that would influence a consumer’s decision.
- Unfair pricing strategies: Charging excessively high prices or engaging in discriminatory pricing schemes.
ASHEVILLE OFFICE
WAYNESVILLE OFFICE
These actions can lead to financial losses, damaged reputations, and a lack of trust in the marketplace. Fortunately, both state and federal laws exist to protect consumers and businesses from these deceptive practices.
Legal Protections Under North Carolina Law
In North Carolina, the Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act (UDTPA) provides consumers and businesses with legal protection against unfair competition and deceptive practices. The UDTPA prohibits any practice that is unethical, oppressive, or unscrupulous, and it empowers consumers to seek legal action against companies or individuals who engage in such activities.
Victims of unfair trade or deceptive practices may be entitled to compensation, including actual damages, and in some cases, treble damages (triple the amount of actual damages) if the conduct is deemed particularly egregious. Our attorneys at Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon are experienced in navigating these complex claims, working diligently to hold deceptive actors accountable.
How We Can Help
At Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon, we represent both businesses and consumers who have been harmed by unfair trade and deceptive practices. Our services include:
- Investigating claims: We thoroughly evaluate the facts to determine whether unfair trade or deceptive practices have occurred.
- Litigation and dispute resolution: We represent clients in lawsuits involving deceptive practices, seeking fair compensation and corrective actions.
- Compliance counseling for businesses: We help businesses ensure their practices comply with state and federal laws to avoid claims of unfair trade.
- Negotiation and settlements: In some cases, disputes can be resolved without the need for litigation, and we work to achieve the best outcome for our clients through negotiation.
Our goal is to protect your rights, whether you're a consumer seeking redress or a business defending against a claim.
Why Choose Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon?
With extensive experience in business and consumer protection law, the attorneys at Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon are well-equipped to handle cases involving unfair trade and deceptive practices. We provide personalized legal counsel and aggressive representation to ensure our clients’ interests are protected. Whether you are pursuing a claim or defending your business, we are here to provide the legal support you need.
Contact Us
If you believe you’ve been a victim of unfair trade or deceptive practices, or if your business needs legal counsel on compliance, contact Ferikes Bleynat & Cannon. Our offices in Asheville and Waynesville serve clients across Western North Carolina. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your legal needs.
