“Consumer law” covers a multitude of federal and state laws. These laws range from quite general, like the Maryland Consumer Protection Act, to very specific, like the Maryland Land Installment Contracts Act. These laws work together to shield consumers against unfair and deceptive trade practices. For consumers in any state, it’s advantageous to understand various ways through which consumer law manifests itself.
What is Consumer Law?
In Maryland, the Consumer Protection Act covers transactions involving the sale, lease, rental, loan, or bailment, covering consumer goods, consumer realty, and consumer services; its purpose is to protect people from unfair, abusive, and deceptive trade practices.
The Different Forms of Consumer Law
Although the Maryland Consumer Protection Act applies to consumer credit (loans, mortgages, and so on), other more specific statutes apply to the same transactions. For example, the Closed-End Credit Grantor Act (“CLEC”) applies to many car loans.
Most consumer issues involve more than one consumer law statute. Consider, for example, a car loan. The sale of the car and the loan are regulated by the Consumer Protection Act, the loan is regulated by CLEC (or another similar statute), but any attempt to collect money on the loan is regulated by the Maryland Consumer Debt Collection Act, electronic payments on the loan are regulated by the Federal Electronic Funds Transfer Act, and credit reporting about the loan is regulated by the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Together, these laws are intended to protect consumers (and honest businesses)
Enactment of Consumer Laws
Consumer laws are enacted to fortify the rights of individuals in the marketplace. These laws are crafted to prevent unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices, creating a level playing field for consumers. Consumer laws allow individuals who suffer injury or loss due to violations to seek damages.
The Role of a Consumer Protection Lawyer
In cases where consumers believe their rights under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act have been violated, seeking the assistance of a seasoned consumer protection lawyer becomes imperative. Legal professionals Peter Holland and Emanwel Turnbull at the Holland Law Firm specialize in representing consumers facing unfair and deceptive practices.
If you find yourself a victim of unfair and deceptive trade practices involving credit cards, credit reports, debt collection, mortgages, student loans, medical debt, or more, reach out to our team of experienced consumer protection lawyers.
Remember, the Maryland Consumer Protection Act stands as a safeguard, and legal professionals are ready to stand by your side in defense of your rights.