Consumer Fraud and Scams

Serving clients in East Lansing, Lansing, Flint, Jackson, Charlotte, and other surrounding communities in Mid-Michigan, I am Tara Nichol, an attorney based in East Lansing specializing in consumer defense. If you believe you've been scammed, misled, or charged for something you didn’t authorize, it can be challenging to know your first step. I assist clients in evaluating issues related to consumer fraud and scams, organizing the necessary facts and documentation, and determining practical next steps—especially when situations escalate into debt collection defense, chargebacks, or small-claims disputes. If you're uncertain about whether you have a claim or how to respond, let's discuss your situation. 

Schedule a consultation: attorneytaranichol.com/schedule

When these issues arise:

- Unauthorized charges, recurring charges you didn’t agree to, or surprise billing

- Online purchase scams or services that were never delivered as promised

- Misrepresentations in a sale or agreement (what you were told vs. what happened)

- A dispute that escalated into debt collection or threats of legal action

- You’re being pressured to pay quickly or sign something you don’t understand

- You have screenshots, emails, texts, or receipts that don’t corroborate the story you’re being told

What I do (consumer-focused approach):

- Clarify what happened and identify the critical facts that matter

- Organize documentation so your situation is clear and supported without turning into chaos

- Help you understand practical options and next steps based on your goals

- Address escalation issues like debt collection activity or dispute processes when they arise

- Keep communication clear, professional, and focused on resolution

What to bring / what I need from you:

- A timeline of events (dates, who you spoke with, what was promised)

- Receipts, invoices, contracts/terms, and any cancellation or refund policies you were shown

- Screenshots of ads/listings, emails, texts, DMs, and payment confirmations

- Bank/credit card statements showing the charges

- Any dispute/chargeback correspondence or collection letters (if applicable)

- Names/contact info for any witnesses (if relevant)

Your Top Questions (FAQ)

Q: What should I do first if I think I was scammed?

A: Save everything and slow things down. Don’t delete messages, and avoid negotiating in a way that creates more confusion. Gather your proof, write down the timeline, and seek advice to understand what a practical next step involves. 

Q: What’s the difference between a scam, a “bad deal,” and consumer fraud?

A: A “bad deal” typically indicates a disappointing outcome without clear misrepresentation. A scam involves deception—someone intentionally misleads you to obtain money, access, or information. “Consumer fraud” is a broader category that may include deceptive practices, false promises, bait-and-switch conduct, or unauthorized charges. The key questions revolve around what you were told, what you relied on, what actually happened, and what proof exists (messages, ads, receipts, terms). A consultation helps clarify which category your situation falls into and outlines sensible options to consider.

Q: What if I already paid, signed something, or provided personal information?

A: You’re not alone—many individuals realize the issue only after money has changed hands or personal information has been shared. The next steps depend on what was provided, what documentation is available, and whether the issue is escalating into debt collection, chargebacks, or threats. The earlier you organize your information and seek legal representation, the easier it will be to choose a practical path forward and avoid worsening the situation.

Don't wait—contact us immediately if you are a victim of consumer fraud or a scam. 

Call 517-299-5659 or send a message now! 

Schedule Your Consultation Today.