STATE CONSUMER PROTECTION LAWS UNHINGED It is Time to Restore Sanity to the Litigation

| December 15, 2016

Consumer protection laws were intended to provide a remedy for

Consumer protection laws were intended to provide a remedy for people who are duped by false advertising or misleading practices in their day-to-day purchases, but, lately, the primary beneficiaries are plaintiffs’ lawyers. By taking advantage of the laws’ vague prohibition of “unfair or deceptive practices,” plaintiffs’ attorneys and some advocacy groups are transforming them from serving a legitimate function for consumers into a virtual lawsuit production factory. As a result of these suits, consumers get less choice in products and services, higher prices, and unnecessary disclaimers. Those who take the time to fill out the paperwork resulting from a settlement may get a few dollars or a coupon off their next purchase, while the attorneys who ginned up the lawsuit take home millions.