If you’ve been stuck with a defective vehicle, you might be thinking, “I have a lemon—but I can’t afford to hire a lawyer.” Fortunately, California has some of the strongest consumer protection laws in the country, and they’re designed to help people like you—even if you can’t pay out of pocket for legal help.
Let’s break down your options and rights.
California’s Lemon Law Protects You
Under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, if your vehicle has a substantial defect that cannot be fixed after a reasonable number of repair attempts, the manufacturer must offer a:
- Buyback (refund)
- Vehicle replacement
- Cash settlement
And here’s the good news: the manufacturer must also pay your attorney’s fees if you win your case.
You Don’t Pay Unless You Win
Most lemon law attorneys in California—especially reputable ones—work on a contingency basis. This means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- The attorney gets paid only if you win
- Legal fees are covered by the manufacturer, not you
So even if you’re struggling financially, you can still access expert legal help at no cost to you.
Why You Should Still Hire an Attorney
Even if you think you can negotiate with the dealership or manufacturer yourself, you’re at a huge disadvantage. Automakers have experienced legal teams, and they don’t offer fair settlements unless they know you have strong legal backing.
An attorney can:
- Maximize your payout
- Handle communication and negotiations
- Make sure your case qualifies
- Avoid technical mistakes that cost you your claim
Free Consultations Are Standard
Lemon Lawyers LA P.C. offers free case evaluations, and most firms do the same. That means you can talk to a professional, get advice, and understand your options—all for free.
What If I Already Spent Money on Repairs?
If you paid for repairs out-of-pocket, keep your receipts. You may be able to recover those costs in a settlement or court award.
What About Used Cars?
California lemon law covers used vehicles that are still under the manufacturer’s warranty. Even if it’s a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, you may have rights. Don’t assume you’re out of luck.
Call Lemon Lawyers LA P.C. in Glendale—Even If You Can’t Pay
You don’t need to worry about paying legal fees up front. At Lemon Lawyers LA P.C., we fight for you—and we don’t get paid unless you do. Call us at (866) 486-9227 for a free consultation. We serve Glendale, Los Angeles, and all of Southern California.