This is a Complaint pleading for use in litigation of the title matter. Adapt this form to comply with your facts and circumstances, and with your specific state law. Not recommended for use by non-attorneys.
This is a Complaint pleading for use in litigation of the title matter. Adapt this form to comply with your facts and circumstances, and with your specific state law. Not recommended for use by non-attorneys.
The primary tool the Office of the Attorney General uses to protect Texas consumers is the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA). This law lists many practices that are false, deceptive, or misleading. When you fall victim to illegal practices covered by the DTPA, you may have the right to sue for damages under the act.
Sec. 17.46. DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES UNLAWFUL. (a) False, misleading, or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce are hereby declared unlawful and are subject to action by the consumer protection division under Sections 17.47, 17.58, 17.60, and 17.61 of this code.
The Deceptive Trade Practices Act (sec. 17.46) protects consumers from unlawful business practices. In particular, this section of the DTPA lists what is considered an unlawful business practice in Texas. Also see section 17.50 for the legal remedies available when a warranty is breached.
Examples of deceptive trade practices in this area include making false statements, omitting important details, and advertising unavailable goods or services. While many companies exaggerate the benefits of their products, it is unlawful to completely fabricate information.
Under the DTPA, a business may be in violation if it uses fraudulent or deceptive tactics to collect debts. This can include: Threatening to sue a consumer without the intention of actually filing a lawsuit. Using misleading or false statements to coerce a consumer into paying a debt.
Exemptions to The Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (the “DTPA”) Attorneys (or other similar professionals), Real Estate brokers & Realtors are oftentimes exempt from DTPA claims. This exemption, however, will not apply in cases of fraud or misrepresentation.
Elements of a DTPA Claim Generally, to prevail on a DTPA claim, plaintiffs must establish three elements: The plaintiff is a consumer; The defendant engaged in false, misleading, or deceptive acts; and. The acts were a producing cause of the consumer's damages.
17.46. DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES UNLAWFUL. (a) False, misleading, or deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any trade or commerce are hereby declared unlawful and are subject to action by the consumer protection division under Sections 17.47, 17.58, 17.60, and 17.61 of this code.