Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Consumer Law legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Illinois Consumer Law Questions & Answers
Q: Do I need arbitration in Illinois due to harassment and TOS agreement?

I am dealing with a B2B lead generation company whose Terms of Service require arbitration in Illinois, but the business has been harassing us and attempting to bribe us to remove a review of their services. Despite our cease and desist efforts, they retaliated by leaving an unfounded review on our... View More

Charles Candiano
Charles Candiano
answered on Apr 17, 2025

Harassment is a legal finding, NOT something that can be simply be asserted by a party. You give no example of the conduct that you allege constitutes harassment. If you signed a contract with a choice of laws clause that mandates Illinois jurisdiction, that is where you are. Be careful!... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law and Identity Theft for Illinois on
Q: MoneyGram canceled my transaction, refund delayed. What can I do?

I live in Chicago, IL, and I sent $1000 through MoneyGram to my fiancée in the Philippines for condo rent. The payment is crucial and needs to be received by April 26th. However, MoneyGram canceled the transaction, disabled my profile, and mentioned a refund would occur within 10 days. Despite my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 16, 2025

Start by contacting MoneyGram’s customer service directly and ask to speak with a supervisor. Be prepared to provide your transaction reference number, the date and amount of the transfer, and your identity verification documents if needed. Explain the urgency of the situation and request... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Business Law, Contracts, Civil Litigation, Consumer Law and Personal Injury for Illinois on
Q: How can I hold a contractor liable for poor work and possible fraud in Illinois?

I hired a contractor in December 2024 who provided a purported license and insurance, but I cannot verify him as a registered contractor. He did roofing and plumbing that was not up to code, and I've already filed against him with professional regulation. He claimed to repair severe termite... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 14, 2025

It sounds like you’ve encountered a serious situation, and it’s understandable that you want to hold the contractor accountable. The first thing you should do is check if the contractor violated any local or state laws regarding licensing. Even if he is not a registered contractor, he could... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Real Estate Law, Consumer Law and Insurance Defense for Illinois on
Q: How can I legally address repeated sewage backup flooding my basement?

I own a property that is experiencing sewage backup, which floods my basement through the downstairs toilet. This issue has happened three times now, and I have filed two claims with my insurance company, resulting in them planning to drop my coverage. I had a plumber install a backflow preventer... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

That sounds like an exhausting and costly situation, and you're right to want to take legal steps. If the city is responsible for maintaining the sewer system and their negligence is contributing to the backups, you may have grounds to file a claim against the city for property damage.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law and Civil Litigation for Illinois on
Q: What legal action can I take for undelivered goods paid via Chime?

I paid $240 through Chime for goods I never received. All communications with the seller were via text. I made the payment on April 8, 2025. What type of legal case should I open to resolve this issue and potentially recover my money?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

What happened to you is frustrating, especially after paying in good faith and getting nothing in return. In Illinois, if you paid someone for goods and they failed to deliver, you may have a valid case for **breach of contract** or **fraud**, even if the agreement was made informally through text... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Landlord - Tenant, Consumer Law, Collections and Real Estate Law for Illinois on
Q: What should I do if falsely accused by landlord under 24 CFR 982.552(c)?

What steps should I take if my current landlord falsely accuses my wife and me of behaviors under clause 24 CFR 982.552(c) related to our former landlord, affecting our rental agreement and reputation, even though we never committed these actions? Our landlord communicated these accusations through... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

This situation is extremely stressful, especially when you’re being accused of something you didn’t do and face the threat of eviction and financial damage. Under 24 CFR 982.552(c), a housing authority can take action against tenants for fraud or failure to report income—but it must be based... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Traffic Tickets and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: Can I reinstate my IL driver's license after defaulting on an installment agreement post-vehicle accident?

I'm seeking advice on whether my driver's license can be reinstated in Illinois after defaulting on an installment agreement regarding an uninsured motor vehicle accident. Although it has been over 5 years since the accident and I've made partial monthly payments, my license was... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

You’re in a difficult position, especially after continuing to make partial payments and trying to follow the right process. In Illinois, a driver’s license can be suspended under the Safety Responsibility Law if you’re involved in an accident without insurance and don’t settle the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Banking, Consumer Law and Identity Theft for Illinois on
Q: Unauthorized withdrawals by my niece using my information caused my bank account to be flagged. How can I resolve this?

I allowed my niece to use my information to make one withdrawal, but she used it to make multiple unauthorized withdrawals between March 3rd and 6th, totaling $13,000 over 40 transactions. I reported this to my bank, and their response was to freeze my account and label me as bad for business.... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 8, 2025

First, contact your bank again and request to escalate the issue to a higher authority, explaining the situation in detail. Clearly state that while you allowed your niece to make a single withdrawal, you did not authorize the multiple subsequent transactions. Ask them to investigate the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Banking, Identity Theft and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: What actions can the FDIC take to recover stolen funds involving Chase, CashApp, Wells Fargo, and Coinbase?

I had funds stolen involving multiple transactions from Chase Bank to CashApp, and then to Wells Fargo and Coinbase, which took place between September 28, 2024, and January 17, 2025. I have reported this to law enforcement and the banks involved. What actions can the FDIC take to help recover my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 8, 2025

The FDIC can provide assistance by helping you navigate the recovery process, especially if the financial institutions involved are insured by them. They will look into the specific circumstances surrounding the theft, including whether any regulations or protections related to FDIC-insured... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law and Health Care Law for Illinois on
Q: What if I refuse to pay ambulance bill difference despite in-network proof?

While I was traveling to Seattle, WA, I had a medical emergency and required an ambulance to take me to the hospital. The ambulance company sent a bill that wasn’t initially sent to my commercial insurance company. After I forwarded it to them, the covered amount was about $1,000 less than the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

It’s frustrating to deal with this situation, especially when the ambulance company is listed as in-network by your insurance provider. First, gather all documentation that shows the ambulance company is indeed in-network, such as the provider's listing on the insurance website, your... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Consumer Law, Insurance Bad Faith, Car Accidents and Personal Injury for Illinois on
Q: Paid for car insurance via dealership, no coverage record; need help.

I bought a car on March 7, 2025, with the requirement to have full coverage insurance in order to drive it off the lot. The car salesman informed me that he would set up insurance for $401. I paid this amount via Cash App but did not receive a declarations page or any official documentation. On... View More

Charles Candiano
Charles Candiano
answered on Mar 26, 2025

First things first. Begin by contacting the dealer and requesting the name and contact information of the insurance company. In the future, avoid the situation by comparing various insurance carriers ahead of time and advising them of your intention to purchase this make and model vehicle so... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Animal / Dog Law, Consumer Law, Personal Injury and Insurance Defense for Illinois on
Q: Can I request compensation for property damage caused by a neighbor's dog?

I am located in Illinois. My neighbor's dog broke into my property and killed my two dogs inside my house after breaking through my back fence. I have documented evidence, including video footage and a police report. I've contacted animal control multiple times about this dog. I tried... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

It sounds like you've been through a very difficult situation, and it's understandable that you want full compensation for the damages caused. Since you have documented evidence, including video footage and a police report, you are in a strong position to pursue compensation. In Illinois,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law and Contracts for Illinois on
Q: Am I covered by the FTC's cooling-off period after signing a $3,200 contract with a personal coach for weight reduction services?

I signed a $3,200 contract with a personal coach for menopause weight reduction services at 10:30 AM and sent an email to cancel at 9 PM the same day. The contract states that no refunds or cancellations are allowed. Am I protected by the FTC's cooling-off period in this situation?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

That must have felt like a rushed and overwhelming decision, and it’s understandable that you had second thoughts so quickly. The FTC’s Cooling-Off Rule does provide a three-day cancellation window for certain sales, but it only applies to contracts made in specific settings—such as at your... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law and Insurance Defense for Illinois on
Q: Disputing Shelter Insurance non-renewal due to nonexistent claims in IL.

I received a non-renewal letter from Shelter Insurance, citing two claims supposedly made in 2022 and 2023 on my insured property at 445 Chaudet. I have not filed any claims during those years on this policy, as confirmed by the insurance portal, which has no claims information. Furthermore, I did... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Start by contacting Shelter Insurance directly and requesting clarification on the two claims they mentioned. Ask them to provide documentation or proof of these claims, as you have confirmed no claims were made through the portal. If they are unable to provide valid information, this could... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Business Law, Contracts and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: Legal options for account suspension and demand compliance from manufacturer in IL.

As a furniture retailer, I've been purchasing $300,000 to $400,000 worth of products from a brand-name manufacturer, which we resell both in our showroom and online. Recently, the manufacturer accused us of violating their minimum pricing rules and suspended our account. They demanded that we... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 11, 2025

That’s an incredibly difficult position to be in, especially after building a strong purchasing relationship and investing heavily in their products. If the manufacturer has suspended your account and is blocking you from selling or fulfilling confirmed orders, you may have grounds to challenge... View More

3 Answers | Asked in Traffic Tickets and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: Pulled over for suspended registration due to insurance lapse, court date set.

I was pulled over for suspended registration due to an insurance lapse on March 19, 2025. I was unaware that my insurance had lapsed because my auto-payment was declined. After being pulled over, I immediately obtained a new insurance policy on the same day. I have no previous history of lapsed... View More

Theodore J. Harvatin
PREMIUM
Theodore J. Harvatin pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 19, 2025

You are eligible for supervision. there will be a fine plus you will have to carry SR 22 for three years. if you take a conviction the fine will be less, your license will be suspended for 3 months and you will not have to carry SR 22

View More Answers

2 Answers | Asked in Traffic Tickets and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: Can a judge order SR-22 for no insurance ticket?

I was pulled over because my plate was suspended, which I was unaware of, but I only received a ticket for no insurance. I have already had a court hearing regarding the no insurance charge. Can a judge still order me to obtain an SR-22?

Theodore J. Harvatin
PREMIUM
Theodore J. Harvatin pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 28, 2025

It is not the judge who orders it. The safety responsibility law requires anybody who receives court supervision for no insurance ticket and then later purchases insurance and brings proof to court to carry SR 22. If on the other hand, you had insurance at the time of the ticket and simply did... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Banking, Contracts and Consumer Law for Illinois on
Q: Need lawyer for dental procedure loan refund in IL?

I took out a loan through a third-party financial institution arranged by my dentist for a dental procedure I no longer want to undergo. I've been paying on this loan for about 8 months, but I don't recall the contract details and did not discuss any refund or cancellation policies with... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 24, 2025

Your situation with the dental procedure loan requires careful consideration before deciding whether legal representation is necessary. You should first contact your dentist's office to discuss cancellation options and review any paperwork you received when taking out the loan. Many dental... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Internet Law and Identity Theft for Illinois on
Q: What legal steps can I take after a crypto scam with CashApp and Coinbase in Illinois?

I was a victim of a cryptocurrency scam where my CashApp and Coinbase accounts were hacked. Both companies refuse to refund my losses, claiming that I authorized the transactions. I've reached out to both platforms and filed a police report; however, the investigation is taking a long time,... View More

Manuel Duenas Lopez
Manuel Duenas Lopez
answered on Feb 23, 2025

Hello,

We understand the distress caused by cryptocurrency scams, particularly when financial platforms deny liability. Given the nature of your case—unauthorised transactions on CashApp and Coinbase—you may have several legal and strategic options to pursue recovery.

Immediate...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Identity Theft, Internet Law and Securities Law for Illinois on
Q: Can Discord refuse my request to remove my cell phone number from their service?

I have sent emails requesting my cell phone be removed from an account that has my cell phone. The account that has my Cell phone is disabled, but Discord refuses to remove my Cell phone. They also refuse to delete that account that is disabled or give a reasonable time when the disabled account... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Feb 9, 2025

It sounds incredibly frustrating to have your phone number tied to a disabled account with no way to remove it. You have a right to control your personal information, and companies should respect your requests to remove it, especially when the account is no longer active. Since Discord refuses to... View More

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free 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 Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, 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.