Unfair Trade Practices Lawyer Erie County | SRIS, P.C.
Unfair Trade Practices Lawyer in Erie County, NY
An unfair trade practices lawyer Erie County can help if a business has deceived you. New York’s General Business Law § 349 prohibits deceptive acts and practices. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced counsel for consumers and businesses facing these complex disputes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
What Are Unfair Trade Practices Under New York Law?
New York’s primary statute against deceptive business practices is General Business Law § 349. This law makes it unlawful to engage in “deceptive acts or practices in the conduct of any business, trade or commerce or in the furnishing of any service.” To have a claim, you must show that the act was consumer-oriented, materially misleading, and that you suffered an injury as a result.
Last verified: April 2026 | Erie County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see New York General Business Law § 349 (official New York State Senate). For court procedures, visit the Erie County Supreme Court website.
Local Procedural Insights for Erie County
Unfair trade practices cases in Erie County are typically heard in the Supreme Court, which has unlimited civil jurisdiction. The Commercial Division handles qualifying business disputes. The New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR) governs all procedure, from filing the complaint through discovery and trial. A key step is filing a Note of Issue to certify the case is ready for trial.
- Gather Evidence: Collect all contracts, advertisements, receipts, and communications related to the transaction.
- Consult an Attorney: Speak with an unfair trade practices lawyer Erie County to evaluate the strength of your claim under GBL § 349.
- File a Complaint: Your attorney will file a summons and complaint in the appropriate court, detailing the deceptive acts.
- Proceed Through Discovery: Both sides exchange relevant documents and take depositions to build their cases.
- File a Note of Issue: Your attorney certifies the case is ready for trial, placing it on the court’s calendar.
- Pursue Resolution: Seek a settlement through negotiation or mediation, or proceed to trial to obtain a judgment.
Potential Remedies and Penalties
In Erie County, a successful unfair trade practices claim under GBL § 349 can result in actual damages or $50, whichever is greater, and potentially treble damages up to $1,000, plus attorney’s fees.
| Violation | Legal Standard | Potential Damages | Other Remedies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deceptive Act or Practice (GBL § 349) | Consumer-oriented, materially misleading, causing injury | Actual damages or $50; Treble damages up to $1,000 | Injunctions, Attorney’s Fees |
| False Advertising (GBL § 350) | False advertising in the conduct of any business | Actual damages or $50; Treble damages up to $1,000 | Injunctions, Attorney’s Fees |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Unfair Trade Practices Case
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex civil litigation. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results. We understand that unfair trade practices cases require a detailed understanding of both business law and consumer protection statutes.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While we do not have a verifiable case result count specific to unfair trade practices in Erie County, our firm’s extensive litigation experience across New York informs our approach. We diligently prepare each case, from evidence collection through trial, to pursue the best possible outcome for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Unfair Trade Practices Lawyer Near Me Erie County
Our New York location serves clients throughout Erie County and Western New York. We represent clients at the Erie County Supreme Court and other local venues. Our office is accessible via I-90, I-81, and other major highways.
We serve communities including Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Amherst, Tonawanda, Hamburg, Orchard Park, Clarence, Lancaster, West Seneca, Lackawanna, East Aurora, Kenmore, Williamsville, and Depew.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Contact: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
Address: 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered an unfair trade practice in New York?
Yes. Under New York General Business Law § 349, an unfair trade practice is a consumer-oriented, materially deceptive act that causes injury. Examples include false advertising, hidden fees, bait-and-switch tactics, and selling defective goods without disclosure.
How long do I have to file an unfair trade practices lawsuit?
It depends. The statute of limitations for most claims under GBL § 349 is three years from the date of the deceptive act. However, specific circumstances can affect this timeline. Consulting with an unfair trade practices lawyer Erie County promptly is crucial to protect your rights.
Can I sue a business for unfair practices if I didn’t lose money?
No. To have a valid claim under GBL § 349, you must show you suffered an actual injury. This is typically a financial loss, but it can also include other forms of harm directly caused by the deceptive practice.
What damages can I recover in a successful case?
You may recover your actual damages or $50, whichever is greater. The court has discretion to award treble damages up to $1,000. In many cases, the prevailing party is also entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and court costs.
Where can I find an affordable unfair trade practices lawyer Erie County?
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case and our fee structures. We provide transparent pricing and work to find an affordable unfair trade practices lawyer Erie County solution for your specific situation.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our New York Civil Litigation Lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters like Business Law in Erie County and Contract Litigation in Erie County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your unfair trade practices matter.