Is there a way to reduce the legal costs for enforcing my consumer rights claim?
January 19, 2024 | 70,00 EUR | answered by Ralf Hausdorf
Dear lawyer,
My name is Tobias Eichenlaub and I have a question regarding legal fees in relation to enforcing my consumer rights claim. I recently purchased a defective electrical device and now wish to exercise my right to warranty. However, I have heard that legal fees can be quite high, and I am concerned about the financial burden.
The current situation is as follows: The electrical device is showing defects shortly after purchase, which were not caused by improper handling on my part. I have tried to contact the seller directly, but my concerns have been dismissed multiple times. Now, I am considering whether to engage a lawyer to represent my rights as a consumer.
My main concern is that the costs of a lawyer may exceed my financial means. Therefore, my question is: Is there a way to reduce the legal fees for enforcing my consumer rights claim? For example, is it possible to apply for legal aid or are there other financing options that could be considered in my case?
I look forward to your response and thank you in advance for your assistance and advice.
Best regards,
Tobias Eichenlaub
Dear Mr. Eichenlaub,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding legal fees in connection with enforcing your consumer rights claim. It is understandable that you are concerned about the financial burden of hiring a lawyer to represent your rights as a consumer. In your case, where the electrical device shows defects shortly after purchase and the seller rejects your concerns, hiring a lawyer may indeed be advisable.
Regarding legal fees, there are various options to reduce costs or obtain financial assistance. One option is legal aid, which allows low-income individuals to afford a lawyer without having to cover the costs themselves. To apply for legal aid, you must submit an application to the relevant court and disclose your financial situation. The application will then be reviewed to determine if you are eligible for legal aid.
Another option for financing legal fees is legal advice assistance. This applies if you only need legal advice and do not wish to go to court. Again, you must disclose your financial situation and apply for legal advice assistance at the relevant district court.
It is important to mention that the amount of legal fees also depends on the value of the dispute. In the case of a consumer rights claim, the value of the dispute may be low, which can have a positive impact on legal fees. Additionally, it is possible that the seller may have to cover the legal fees if they are in the wrong and you successfully enforce your consumer rights.
In any case, I recommend contacting a specialized consumer rights lawyer to discuss your situation in more detail and find the best possible solution. An initial consultation is often free of charge and can provide clarity on your rights and options.
I hope this information has been helpful to you, and I am available to answer any further questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Ralf Hausdorf
