Consumer Law FAQs

Ohio Consumer Law encompasses a series of statutes and regulations designed to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent practices in the marketplace. These laws ensure that businesses operate fairly and transparently, providing consumers with the necessary information to make informed decisions. 

Consumers in Ohio have numerous rights, including the right to honest advertising, accurate information, fair contracts, and remedies for defective products or services. The Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act (CSPA) is a key piece of legislation that outlines these rights and prohibits businesses from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices. 

The CSPA is a law that protects consumers from unfair, deceptive, and unconscionable acts or practices by suppliers in consumer transactions. It covers a wide range of activities, including advertising, sales, leases, and services. The CSPA gives the Ohio Attorney General the authority to investigate and take action against violators, and it allows consumers to file lawsuits for damages. 

Unfair or deceptive practices under the CSPA include false advertising, misleading pricing, failure to disclose important information, and making false statements about a product or service. For example, if a seller advertises a product as new when it is actually used, or if they fail to disclose that a vehicle has been in a serious accident, these actions would be considered deceptive. 

Consumers can file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section. To do so, they need to provide details about the transaction, the business involved, and the nature of the complaint. Complaints can be submitted online, by mail, or by phone. The Attorney General's office will review the complaint and may take action to resolve the issue or pursue legal action if necessary. 

They can also file complaints with private attorneys seeking immediate remedies. 

Under the CSPA, consumers may be entitled to various remedies, including refunds, repairs, replacements, or compensation for damages. If a consumer successfully sues a business for a CSPA violation, they may also be awarded attorney's fees and punitive damages. The law aims to make consumers whole and deter businesses from engaging in unfair practices. 

Yes, businesses that violate Ohio Consumer Law can face significant penalties. The Ohio Attorney General can seek court orders to stop unlawful practices, impose fines, and require restitution to affected consumers. In some cases, businesses may also face criminal charges and be subject to additional sanctions. 

Yes, Ohio Consumer Law provides specific protections for certain types of transactions, such as home improvement contracts, auto sales, and telemarketing. These protections include requirements for written contracts, disclosures, and cancellation rights. For example, the Home Solicitation Sales Act gives consumers a three-day right to cancel certain door-to-door sales. 

If consumers suspect a business is violating Ohio Consumer Law, they should document their concerns, gather any relevant evidence, and file a complaint with the Ohio Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section. They can also seek advice from a consumer rights attorney to understand their legal options and potential remedies.