Specialization is the Key Differentiator
As with many issues people face, one of the first things a person will likely do when dealing with a chronically malfunctioning vehicle is search the Internet for advice. As they scroll through law firms in the search results, everything seems like a blur. But wait; one phrase keeps standing out: “lemon law attorney.” What’s the difference? Don’t all consumer lawyers handle these claims?
While all lemon law attorneys are consumer lawyers, not all consumer lawyers specialize in lemon law cases. Think of it this way: a consumer lawyer is like a general practitioner who handles various types of consumer protection issues, while a lemon law attorney is a specialist focused specifically on defective vehicles and your rights under state and federal lemon laws.
What specialized expertise and knowledge does a lemon law attorney offer?
The following three benefits a lemon law attorney provides can give you the best opportunity to win your claim.
1) Specialized Focus and Experience
Lemon law attorneys focus exclusively on helping people gain compensation for defective owned or, in some instances, leased or rented vehicles. They’re intimately familiar with state-specific laws and the federal Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, which can be a great tool to use to help you gain compensation. There are specific requirements under state and federal laws to have a vehicle qualify as a “lemon,” and a lemon law attorney knows all of these points as they will apply to your particular case.
Automotive-Specific Industry Knowledge
Lemon law attorneys often know the common defects specific to various makes and models, understand technical automotive terminology, and have established relationships with automotive experts.
It is especially relevant that these lawyers possess considerable knowledge regarding vehicle manufacturing and design. Knowledge about various automotive systems—from powertrains and electrical systems to advanced driver assistance features—is another advantage such attorneys can provide, including:
- They stay current with evolving automotive technology, including hybrid and electric vehicle systems.
- They know the standard repair procedures manufacturers require their dealerships to follow, including the diagnostic steps, repair timeframes, and documentation requirements.
- You’ll benefit from their familiarity with Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and recall notices, which they regularly monitor to stay informed about known issues and recommended fixes.
- Plus, these attorneys build extensive networks of automotive experts. They maintain relationships with master mechanics, automotive engineers, and industry specialists who can provide expert testimony about vehicle defects. These relationships are crucial for building strong cases and providing technical validation for their clients’ claims.
They are also very good at understanding the differences between types of warranties, like basic bumper-to-bumper coverage, extended warranties, and certified pre-owned guarantees. They know the legal requirements for warranty coverage in different states.
One of the top benefits these lawyers provide is that they also understand how manufacturers usually deal with claims about defects. They know which manufacturers are more likely to settle quickly, which ones typically fight claims, and what strategies work best with each company.
For more information on arbitration and other frequently asked lemon law claim questions, click here.
2) Expert Documentation and Evidence Analysis
Beyond just state and federal lemon laws, lemon law attorneys understand how various consumer protection laws interact with vehicle defect cases. They keep track of legal precedents and court decisions that might affect your case. Their knowledge extends to state-specific consumer protection regulations and federal warranty laws, allowing them to build the strongest possible case for their clients.
A lemon law case involves very precise documentation: repair orders, purchase agreements, warranty documents, and detailed records of all problems and repair attempts. It’s not just about having repair records but having the right kinds of documentation that clearly demonstrate your vehicle meets the legal criteria for a “lemon.” Your lawyer will help you verify that each repair order includes accurate dates, detailed problem descriptions, and specific work performed. They know that even seemingly minor details, like documenting the mileage at each repair visit, can significantly impact your case.
When a repair order is missing key information, your attorney can help you obtain amended documentation from the dealership—something many consumers don’t realize is possible or necessary.
Highly skilled lawyers can recommend the best ways to document evidence to strengthen your claim, such as:
- Videos or photos of the defect in action: For example, if your vehicle’s check engine light keeps coming on, your attorney might advise you to keep a detailed log of when it occurs, take photos of the dashboard, and request printouts of any diagnostic codes.
- Notes about how the problem affects your daily life and safety
- Records of any rental car expenses or alternative transportation costs
- Documentation of lost wages due to repair appointments
- Evidence of failed manufacturer-authorized repair attempts
- Evidence that can help prove that the vehicle’s value has been diminished (including but not limited to: reduced fuel economy, handling issues, and software glitches)
Your attorney will know from experience that the claims process requires this highly detailed documentation, which can make the difference between a successful claim and one that gets denied by the manufacturer. This comprehensive approach helps build a compelling case that manufacturers can’t easily dismiss.
Lemon laws are confusing. Read our guide to the lemon law complaint process.
3) Favorable Fee Structure
Most consumer lawyers work on either an hourly basis or a contingency fee arrangement, depending on the type of case. Some might require retainers or combine different fee structures depending on the complexity and nature of your case.
Lemon law attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, and often, their fees are paid by the manufacturer if the lemon law attorney wins your case. This is because lemon laws often include fee-shifting provisions that require manufacturers to pay the consumer’s legal fees if the consumer prevails.
Contact Allen Stewart, P.C.—Expert Lemon Law Attorneys
Allen Stewart, P.C., provides you with all of the aforementioned skills, knowledge and experience so you have the best opportunity to receive the compensation you deserve. Specialization is key in lemon law claims. We have won compensation for hundreds of clients in multiple states, including as top lemon law attorneys in Texas and California.
Are you having problems with an electric vehicle? Please contact our office to discuss your case. We are experts in helping clients with issues related to new vehicle technologies and the updated lemon laws that apply to these. You can rely on our attorneys to vigorously and effectively represent you in electric vehicle (EV) and other contemporary lemon law claim proceedings.
Winning your claim involves many time-sensitive steps, any of which, if missed or mishandled, can potentially hinder your chances for compensation. Don’t wait. Regardless if you think you have a case, call us today at 866-440-2460 to schedule a free consultation, or contact us online.