Filing a Consumer Complaint in Maine

Maine's Unfair Trade Practices Act declares unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in trade or commerce unlawful, and courts are guided by Federal Trade Commission interpretations. A person who buys or leases goods, services or property mainly for personal, family or household purposes and loses money or property because of a violation may sue in Superior Court or District Court for actual damages, restitution and equitable relief such as an injunction. At least 30 days before filing suit for damages, the consumer must send the business a written demand for relief describing the practice and the injury. If the court finds a violation, the consumer is awarded reasonable attorney's fees and costs, although fees incurred after rejecting a settlement offer that turns out to be more favorable than the judgment cannot be recovered.