Consumer Law attorneys in South Africa

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Plain-language guide

What a consumer law attorney does.

A consumer law attorney enforces the rights the Consumer Protection Act gives every consumer and small business: fair and honest dealing, plain language contracts, the right to return defective goods, protection against unfair terms and hidden charges, and the right to cancel certain agreements. They also advise suppliers on how to comply.

When you need one

Goods failed within six months and the supplier refuses to repair, replace or refund.
A fixed-term contract, gym membership or cellphone deal will not let you cancel or is charging a penalty that looks excessive.
You were misled by advertising, a quotation or a salesperson.
A complaint to the supplier and the ombud has gone nowhere and the amount justifies a claim.

How fees usually work

Many consumer disputes are worth less than an attorney would cost to run to court, so a good attorney will first point you to the free routes: the supplier, the relevant industry ombud and the National Consumer Commission. For a large claim, or a supplier-side compliance review, expect hourly or fixed fees with a written estimate up front.

Questions to ask before you instruct

Is this dispute worth an attorney, or should I use the ombud or the National Consumer Tribunal first?
Which remedy does the Act give me here: repair, replacement, refund or cancellation?
What proof do I need to keep: receipts, photographs, messages, the contract?
What will the letter of demand cost, and what happens if they ignore it?

See the listed practitioners

General information about South African law and practice, not advice on your matter. The practitioners listed on this page give that advice.

Consumer law attorney questions

Can I return faulty goods in South Africa?

Yes. Under section 56 of the Consumer Protection Act goods carry an implied warranty of quality for six months from delivery. If they fail in that time you may return them and choose a repair, a replacement or a refund, and the supplier must carry the cost of the return.

Can I cancel a contract I signed?

A fixed-term consumer agreement can be cancelled on 20 business days notice, though the supplier may charge a reasonable cancellation penalty. Agreements concluded through direct marketing can be cancelled without penalty within five business days. Some contracts fall outside the Act, so check with an attorney or the ombud.

Who do I complain to about a shop or a service provider?

Start with the supplier in writing. If that fails, the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud handles most retail and service complaints free of charge, and the Motor Industry Ombudsman, the Credit Ombud and other sector ombuds cover their fields. The National Consumer Commission investigates wider breaches of the Act.

For the practitioners listed here

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