Scams & Consumer Issues in New Jersey

New Jersey's Consumer Fraud Act (NJSA 56:8-1 et seq.) is one of the most powerful consumer protection statutes in the country. Under NJSA 56:8-19, consumers who suffer an ascertainable loss of money or property may bring a private action and recover treble damages (mandatory — courts must award three times actual damages if a violation is found), plus reasonable attorney fees and filing costs. The mandatory treble damages provision makes New Jersey's CFA exceptionally plaintiff-favorable. The statute of limitations is six years under NJSA 2A:14-1. The NJ AG and Division of Consumer Affairs have broad enforcement authority and may seek civil penalties up to $10,000 per first violation and $20,000 per subsequent violation, plus injunctions and restitution. New Jersey requires home improvement contractors to register with the Division of Consumer Affairs under NJSA 56:8-136 et seq. Home improvement contracts over $500 must be in writing.