• Consumer Protection Law and Advocacy — Chicago, IL

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Be Wary of Recurring Auto Debits

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Consumers should be cautious when authorizing recurring auto debits.  Nearly every company — from your most aggressive bill collector to your local gym — now ask that consumers permit automatic monthly withdrawals from their checking accounts.  While this may be convenient and “eco-friendly,” it can lead to problems.  Be aware that a federal law called…

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Avoiding Automotive Repair Shop Fraud and Excessive Charges

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Automotive repair shop fraud is a consistent consumer protection concern. Many repair shops continue to ignore key protections here in Illinois. The Automotive Repair Act requires repair facilities to make specific disclosures to consumers before repair work begins.  When you bring your car in, you must be given a written estimate that explains: the amount to be…

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Avoid Gift Card Traps This Holiday Season

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The holidays are upon us and that means gift card season!  Federal and state laws protect gift card recipients but be cautious when purchasing.  Some gift cards and gift certificates contain high activation fees, dormancy charges, and expiration dates. In Illinois, gift certificates must be valid for at least 5 years from date of issuance.…

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Fair Credit Reporting & Consumer Law - Bardo Law PC

Consumer Law Q&A – Employment Credit Checks and the FCRA

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During the holiday season, many people apply for part-time and seasonal jobs.  Your employment application may be rejected because of poor credit – but employers must follow the law before doing so.  Unfortunately, employment credit checks are permitted under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (“FCRA”).  The FCRA allows employers to request credit reports on job…

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Debt Collector Harassment

Resource for Bad Debt Collection Tactics

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  Bad debt collector tactics are finally getting some much needed publicity.  National Association of Consumer Advocates’ co-member Stephanie Tatar (of The Tatar Law Firm) posts very helpful consumer law/debt collection articles.  Visit Debt Collection Harassment Digest at http://paper.li/ConsumerLawNet/1430249856?edition_id=54af3610-8d5a-11e5-b6bc-0cc47a0d1609 to read more.  Yesterday’s shared post involves a look at the New York Times’ editorial piece “Bad…

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