Did you know that in the year, 2015 alone, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and other law enforcement authorities received more than an astounding 3 million complaints from consumers that had been harassed by companies and other agencies? Some of these consumers had found themselves at the receiving end of the unfair practices of dealers and other salespersons. If you have found yourself in a similar situation, know that you’re not alone. And, help is at hand.

While you can take some of the complaints to a claims court and remedy the situation, for others, you’ll need the advice of an attorney. By using the services of an expert lawyer, you can apply for and get the damages due to you or restrain companies and agents from harassing you. Here are some of the common situations for which you might need legal guidance.

Are You Being Harassed by Debt Collection Agencies?

29% of the complaints from consumers are against debt collection agencies. According to the regulations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, creditors cannot use deceptive or unfair tactics to collect on overdue bills. These techniques include calling at all odd times, showing up at the workplace, and contacting friends and family members with threatening language. Should you file a complaint with the advice of an attorney, the agency responsible might have to pay you statutory damages of up to $1,000.

Have You Been the Victim of Identity Theft?

According to the results of a study by Javelin Strategy and Research, more than 13 million people have been the victims of identity theft in the year 2015 alone. If you’re one such victim, an attorney can help you take the important steps to remedy the situation. You’ll have to contact the credit score reporting agencies to find out about any possible purchases, loans, and debts taken in your name. Identity theft can badly affect your credit scores and put you in debt without your being aware of it and the advice of an attorney can help you through the situation.

Have You Been Discriminated Against?

If you need credit or are looking for housing arrangements, any agencies or individuals cannot discriminate against you based on criteria such as religion, age, sex, race, national origin, ethnic background, mental or physical incapacity, public aid, marital status, or sexual orientation. With the advice of an attorney, you can contact a law enforcement agency and enforce your right to fair credit and housing.

Have You Bought Harmful Products?

The Consumer Product Safety Act and The Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act bans manufacturers from selling your products that may have toxic and dangerous components and additives. These federal agencies also forbids them from selling products that have mislabeling or contaminated and poor quality medicines, devices, and any other consumer products. If you have bought an item that has caused you an injury or harm, you can complain to the Food and Drug Administration with the advice of your attorney.

Have You Bought a Faulty Product or Gadget?

Under the law, any faulty appliances or gadgets that you buy are protected under consumer law. You have the right to request that the dealer either give you a full refund on the amount you paid or repair the item so that it works as it should. You can also request that the defective product is replaced with a new one without having to pay any additional charges. If you opt for a cheaper product, the dealer must refund the balance amount to you. You also have the choice of settling for a repaired product for a lower price. If any of these rights are not being recognized by the company selling you a product, you can file a complaint with the advice of your attorney.

Have You Been the Victim of Faulty and Misleading Advertising?

Many dealers and salespersons are notorious for making false claims in their advertising and then arm-twisting customers into buying alternative, more expensive items, or at less favorable terms and conditions. In addition, you might have to deal with confusing sales contracts and misleading warranties. Some companies also use forced arbitration where the contract states that you cannot complain in a court of law. In case there are any issues, you must settle the matter by arbitration only. In all these instances, you have the right to take your case to a law enforcement authority with the advice of your attorney. Do keep in mind that the law also protects you against telemarketers and telecallers harassing you with offers of products and deals.

With the law on your side, you need not be concerned when you find yourself in an unpleasant situation. Take the necessary steps and you can defend your rights as a consumer and get the damages due to you.