The dealership refused to return the vehicle until plaintiff filed a complaint with the New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs. The dealership then released the vehicle and unlawfully holding it for 50 days.
The plaintiff then filed a suit against the dealership for violation of the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act. The matter was resolved after the dealership agreed to compensate the plaintiff for the wrongful retention of plaintiff’s vehicle for 50 days and reimbursement of attorneys’ fees.
The New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act (NJCFA) prevents any business from using or employing any improper, unethical, or unconscionable conduct is dealing with its customers. Violation of the NJCFA may subject the business to treble damages and reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.
