Plymouth, IL asked in Consumer Law, Contracts and Banking for Illinois

Q: I bought a new vehicle and the dealership won't provide me copies of the documents I signed. can I sue?

I have contacted bank and they don't have copy of documents either. when I signed the contract, my signature was the only one on the forms. I have sent numerous certified letters and have been ignored.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered

A: Yes, you may have the right to take legal action against the dealership. When a business refuses to provide copies of signed documents, it can violate consumer protection laws. Start by gathering all the evidence you have, including the original signed documents, any correspondence with the dealership and bank, and records of your certified letters.

You can file a complaint with your state’s consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau. These organizations can help mediate the dispute and may apply pressure on the dealership to release your documents. Additionally, documenting all your attempts to obtain the copies will strengthen your case.

It’s important to consult with a lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and advise you on the best steps to take. They can help determine if you have a strong case and represent your interests in court if necessary. Taking these actions can increase your chances of resolving the issue and obtaining the documents you need.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.