Handyman Fraud Legal Steps

Summary

If a handyman leaves jobs incomplete and disappears with a deposit, document all interactions and report to the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Consider small claims court for financial recovery. Legal aid organizations may assist with Chapter 93A claims if you qualify. The Massachusetts Attorney Generals Office can guide you on consumer protection issues. If the handyman falsely claims to have a company, you can still file complaints with relevant agencies. Legal aid may represent you in small claims court if you meet income requirements.

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I am in MA. I send 30 day demand letter under Chapter 93a. I also found out through surveillance that the handyman scams people according to a facebook review, and has a violent crime and theft background and record according to police dept records in several towns.
Given the seriousness of your situation and the potential for a high-value claim, connecting with a local lawyer could be highly beneficial. They can provide specific legal advice and represent your interests effectively. Would you like assistance in connecting with a local lawyer?
I am indigent and cannot afford a lawyer
I'm really sorry to hear about your situation. Since you're in Massachusetts, here are some steps you might consider:
- Legal Aid: Contact local legal aid organizations for free assistance. Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC) might be a good starting point.
- Small Claims Court: You can represent yourself in small claims court for claims up to $*,*.
- Consumer Affairs Complaint: Continue with your complaint to the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation.
These resources can help guide you through your options without the need for a lawyer.
What OSHA standards must this handyman who claims he has a company but does not have to follow? What laws are violated when he leaves the jobs undone causing risk and danger to health and property
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In Massachusetts, OSHA standards apply mainly to employees working under contractors, not independent handymen. However, if the handyman claims to have a company, he should comply with:
- General Duty Clause: Ensures a safe work environment.
- Hazard Communication Standard: Proper labeling of hazardous materials.
Legal violations might include:
- Breach of contract: If specific terms were not met.
- Fraud: If misrepresentations were made about qualifications.
- Consumer Protection Violations: Particularly under Massachusetts Chapter 93A.
Consider following up with legal aid or small claims court as previously mentioned.
Where would I report the fraudulant activity to in MA?
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In Massachusetts, you can report fraudulent activity to the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Additionally, you might consider contacting the Attorney General's Office for consumer protection matters. They can guide you on how to proceed with your complaint.
What if the individual has no company? He claimed he did . Can I still file with those agencies?
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Yes, you can still file a complaint with those agencies even if the individual has no company. In Massachusetts:
- Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation: They handle fraud and consumer complaints.
- Attorney General's Office: Can assist with consumer protection issues.
If you'd like more detailed guidance, consider contacting local legal aid.
Does the Attorney General's Office get involved with individual handymen defrauding homeowners
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The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office can assist with consumer protection issues, including fraud by individual handymen. They may not directly intervene but can guide you on how to proceed with your complaint. It's worth reaching out to them for advice on potential actions you can take.
who do i talk to
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For your situation in Massachusetts, you can contact the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office and the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. They can guide you on addressing the fraudulent activities and consumer protection issues related to the handyman. Additionally, exploring local legal aid services might provide further assistance.
will legal aid represent me and my elderly mother in small claims for 93a claim
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Legal aid organizations in Massachusetts, like the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation (MLAC), might be able to assist you with your Chapter 93A claim in small claims court, especially if you meet their income requirements. It's worth reaching out to them to explore your options.