Lemon law lawyer: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What lemon law lawyer is

A lemon law lawyer provides information about defective vehicles and may represent buyers in claims against manufacturers. Buyers look for one when a new or recently bought vehicle keeps having serious problems after repair attempts. General information only, with no results promised.

Signs you need it

  • The same defect keeps returning after repair visits
  • The vehicle has spent significant time in the shop for warranty repairs
  • A safety problem such as braking or steering failure was not fixed
  • The dealer or manufacturer is not responding to your complaints
  • You are not sure whether your vehicle qualifies under state rules
  • You are being offered a buyback or replacement and want it reviewed

What the pro does

  • Review your purchase contract, warranty and repair orders
  • Explain, in general terms, how your state's rules for defective vehicles work
  • Check the number of repair attempts and days out of service
  • Send written notice to the manufacturer as the rules require
  • Negotiate a repurchase, replacement or other resolution
  • File a claim and represent you if the manufacturer refuses

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The state rules that apply to your vehicle
  • Number of repair attempts and records available
  • Whether the manufacturer requires arbitration first
  • Whether the law lets the manufacturer pay your lawyer's fees
  • Whether the case settles or goes to trial
  • Whether the vehicle is leased or financed
  • The type of defect and need for expert inspection

What a written quote should spell out

  • The fee arrangement in writing
  • Whether the manufacturer may be required to pay your fees, and how that is handled
  • Costs such as inspections
  • What happens with a lease or loan
  • How you will be updated

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Does my vehicle qualify under this state's rules?
  • Which repair orders are the most important?
  • Do I have to go through an arbitration program first?
  • How do you handle a financed or leased vehicle?
  • Who pays for case costs and when?
  • What should I do while the vehicle is still being repaired?

Red flags

  • A lawyer who promises a buyback
  • Advice to stop payments on a loan without checking your contract
  • No written fee agreement
  • A person who asks you to sign before reviewing the repair records

What you can do yourself

Keep every repair order, even ones that say no problem found, and write down dates the vehicle was in the shop. Report the defect to the dealer in writing. Many states have deadlines and notice steps, so speak with a licensed attorney early.

Licenses and permits

Lemon law lawyers must be licensed attorneys in good standing. Check the license with the state bar.

Lemon law lawyer questions

Does every problem vehicle qualify?

No. State rules set conditions. A licensed attorney can review your facts.

Do I pay the lawyer out of pocket?

Arrangements vary. Ask for the fee agreement in writing.

Do used cars qualify?

Some states cover them in limited cases. Ask a licensed attorney.

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