Miami Federal Price Gouging Lawyer

Ready to Fight for Your Business & Rights

From hurricanes to COVID-19, times of crises lead to shortages of essential items and empty shelves throughout Florida. It is not uncommon for retailers to raise prices of certain items or services due to demand; however, some of these increases are excessive in nature and represent a gross disparity from what these items and services were originally sold at immediately before the market was disrupted by a disaster. Both state and federal authorities take price gouging seriously and will seek the maximum criminal penalties against individuals or businesses who violate these laws. Yet, many retailers are simply trying to compete with the market and have no other choice then to increase their prices, which is why they must hire an experienced federal lawyer to protect their business and rights.

If you or your business has been accused of price gouging in Florida, The Law Office of Joel DeFabio is prepared to develop an effective and personalized legal defense to help you avoid conviction and clear your name. With nearly four decades of experience, our Miami federal price gouging attorney has handled over 600 federal cases and isn’t afraid to take your case to trial in order to get the best possible outcome.

Call (305) 851-5581 and schedule a free initial consultation to learn how our firm can help you.

Federal & State Price Gouging Laws

Price gouging means increasing the prices of goods and services to an amount significantly higher than a fair or reasonable amount. The federal government will take criminal action against individuals or businesses engaged in price gouging.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, President Donald Trump signed an executive order to prevent price gouging and hoarding of crucial medical supplies. Additionally, the Justice Department created the COVID-19 Hoarding and Price Gouging Task Force to investigate and prosecute price gouging and hoarding of crucial medical supplies.

However, states are mainly responsible for prosecuting price gouging. In Florida, selling household items, fuel, rentals, and other commodities at “unconscionable” prices after a state of emergency has been declared is a second-degree misdemeanor, which carries a maximum jail term of 60 days and a fine no more than $1,000. Multiple violations within a 24-hour period is punishable by a maximum fine of $25,000.

Let Us Help You Today

During a disaster, we understand how hard for businesses to continue supporting their employees and families. Our firm can show the court that increasing costs of your good and services were based on the current market and necessary to continuing running.

Contact us today for more information about our legal services.