Sometimes small errors can have big consequences. According to a recent Fourth Circuit decision, big consequences do not turn small errors into unfair or deceptive trade practices. Edwards v. Genex Cooperative, Inc. considered a section 75-1.1 claim based on a breach of contract accompanied by “substantial aggravating factors.” Parties to […]
Today’s post examines an intersection of two familiar topics: (1) the “conduct standards” by which conduct is judged to be “unfair,” and (2) the “pervasively regulated conduct” rationale for section 75-1.1’s securities exemption. Robichaud v. Engage2Excel, Inc., a new decision from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of […]
We recently wrote about one state’s novel and high-profile use of its consumer-protection laws. In West Virginia, the state attorney general sued a Roman Catholic Diocese, alleging that it had deceived consumers—more specifically, parents who send their children to diocesan schools and camps. The lawsuit concerns allegations of sexual abuse […]
This post studies a recent decision about a sales agent who’s upset with the quality of his leads. An initial sidebar: the agent wasn’t peddling real estate, but it’s almost impossible to read the decision without thinking of this outstanding movie. David Mamet is a genius. But, setting aside whether […]