NCJ Number
88731
Date Published
1983
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This booklet explains Wyoming's Consumer Protection Act, provides examples of unfair business practices, and outlines procedures whereby victims of consumer fraud can obtain compensation.
Abstract
The first section describes unfair or deceptive business practices considered illegal under the consumer protection law. It is unlawful for an individual to misrepresent a product's origin; his or her affiliation with an organization; or the product's standard, grade, or style. Other examples of misrepresentation are bait and switch techniques, advertising under the guise of recruiting sales personnel, and advertising merchandise when the supply cannot meet the demand. Also discussed are unsolicited merchandise, home solicitation sales, home repairs, liens, health fraud, warranty and guarantee, and employment agencies. The booklet suggests ways to resolve a dispute through telephone calls and letters. In addition, consumers can refer their complaints to private, business, and public consumer agencies. Procedures for referring a problem to the Wyoming Attorney General or the State Consumer Affairs Office are detailed. When these alternatives are unavailable or ineffective, the booklet suggests small claims court and describes criteria for taking a dispute to court. It discourages hiring an attorney for such cases and reviews procedures for filing and presenting a case. The booklet concludes with suggestions on avoiding consumer problems. An appendix lists private, business, and govermental consumer action agencies.