What type of lawyer do I need?

Question

My debit/credit cards were stolen on 3/25/07. The thieves went on a shopping spree at nearly over 20 retail stores, gas stations, and restaurants. No one asked for ID! This is completely unacceptable. I would like sue the merchants for not protected me as a consumer, for only being concerned with their bottom line. Identity theft is on the rise and until we hold merchants responsible, it will continue to grow.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, goodluck. No court would allow this type of suit.

I like the general idea....make the merchants be more careful and we wouldn't have this problem. But until the problem is solved we are opening up numerous merchants to business ending lawsuits and would cripple the economy.

What should happen..people should petition their state govnerments to pass laws to force merchants to be more careful.

But even then how easy is it to get a fake id? I steal your card and just make an id with my picture and your name on it. In many cases I've seen this is what happens. If this is what happened you will be out of luck as for the merchants...you should contact your bank and credit card companies to see if they can help recover money or will credit your account.

If you choose to proceed...contact an attorney who practices consummer or commercial law.

Answer 2

You'd want a civil litigator. The suit would probably arise from commercial malpractice (professional negligence) on the part of the merchant, and possible violation of specific state laws (which vary by state) relating to credit card transactions.

It's difficult to prove the merchants were at fault, or that they had a duty to you (personally) to ensure your cards were being used properly. But that is the most direct avenue of attack. Your attorney may be able to suggest other options.

Answer 3

Income Tax

Answer 4

What steps did YOU take to protect yourself. Did you notify the card issuer that it was stolen???

Now you want to sue. LOL!!