Consumer Scams & Fraud Disputes
If Something Feels Off, Trust That Instinct—Then Get a Plan.
Serving clients in East Lansing, Lansing, Flint, Jackson, Charlotte—plus surrounding Mid‑Michigan communities.
If you believe you were scammed, misled, or charged for something you didn’t authorize, it can be hard to know what to do first. I’m Tara Nichol, an attorney based in East Lansing. I help clients evaluate consumer fraud and scam-related disputes, organize the facts and documentation, and take practical next steps—especially when the situation escalates into collections, chargebacks, or small-claims-type disputes. If you’re not sure whether you have a claim or how to respond, let’s talk.
Schedule a consultation: attorneytaranichol.com/schedule
When this comes up
- 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 collections 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 match the story you’re being told
What I do (consumer-focused approach)
- Clarify what happened and identify the key facts that matter
- Organize documentation so the 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 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 don’t keep negotiating in a way that creates more confusion. Gather your proof, write down the timeline, and get advice on what a practical next step looks like.
Q: What’s the difference between a scam, a “bad deal,” and consumer fraud?
A: A “bad deal” is usually a situation where the outcome is disappointing but there wasn’t a clear misrepresentation. A scam typically involves deception—someone intentionally misleads you to get money, access, or information. “Consumer fraud” is a broader category that can include deceptive practices, false promises, bait-and-switch type conduct, or unauthorized charges. The key questions are what you were told, what you relied on, what actually happened, and what proof exists (messages, ads, receipts, terms). A consult helps you sort out which category your situation fits and what options make sense.
Q: What if I already paid, signed something, or gave personal information?
A: You’re not alone—many people don’t realize what’s happening until after money changes hands or information is shared. The next steps depend on what was provided, what documentation exists, and whether the issue is escalating into collections, chargebacks, or threats. The sooner you get organized and get advice, the easier it is to choose a practical path forward and avoid making the situation worse.
Don't wait - contact us immediately if you are a victim of consumer fraud or a scam.
