Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Firm

How much does it cost to hire Johnson Consumer Law?

Most consumer protection cases — including FCRA, FDCPA, EFTA, and UDAP claims — are handled on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no attorney's fees out of pocket. Federal and state fee-shifting statutes typically require the defendant to pay our attorney's fees if we prevail. Chapter 7 bankruptcy filings and debt defense matters are handled at a transparent flat fee, which we discuss during your free consultation. Court filing fees and required credit counseling and debtor education courses are paid separately.

What areas do you serve?

Our attorneys are licensed in Virginia, Washington D.C., Missouri and Kansas. We represent consumers throughout these jurisdictions, including Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, and the greater Northern Virginia area, the Washington D.C. metro, and the Kansas City metro area. Many federal consumer protection cases can be handled remotely regardless of your specific location within our practice areas.

How quickly will I hear back after submitting an intake form?

We respond to all inquiries within one business day. If your matter is time-sensitive — for example, you have been served with a lawsuit — please call us directly at (540) 518-8953.

Does contacting you create an attorney-client relationship?

No. Submitting an intake form or contacting us by phone or email does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is established only after we have evaluated your situation, agreed to take your case, and signed an engagement agreement. However, we treat all communications as confidential in accordance with our professional obligations.

About Consumer Protection Cases

How do I know if I have a consumer protection case?

Common signs include receiving harassing or threatening calls from debt collectors, discovering errors on your credit report that won't be fixed, being deceived by a car dealer or other business, having money taken from your bank account without authorization, or being the victim of identity theft and facing resistance from companies that should be helping you. If any of these sound familiar, submit a free case evaluation and we will review your situation.

How long do consumer protection cases take?

Timelines vary depending on the type of case and the parties involved. Some cases resolve through pre-litigation demand within weeks. Others may require filing a lawsuit and can take several months to a year or more. We will give you a realistic timeline assessment during your initial consultation. Every case is different and must be judged on its own merits.

What kind of damages can I recover?

Depending on the specific law that was violated, you may be entitled to actual damages (money you lost), statutory damages (set amounts provided by law), punitive damages (in cases of willful violations), and attorney's fees and court costs (typically paid by the defendant). We will explain what remedies may be available based on the specific facts of your situation.

Will I have to go to court?

Most consumer protection cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which strengthens our negotiating position. If a case does go to court, we handle everything — you will be prepared and supported throughout the process.