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Price Gouging Accusations during Coronavirus

March 25, 2020
By The Wiseman Law Firm

As of March 10, Florida’s Attorney General activated the state’s price gouging hotline in response to COVID-19 concerns. This allows anyone to report price increases as a criminal act, putting business owners at risk of criminal charges. Vendors selling protective and sanitizing supplies are forbidden from raising prices on these items above a certain limit.

Have you or your business received a subpoena for documents from an Assistant Attorney General or the Attorney General of Florida for alleged price gouging during this COVID-19 pandemic? While you may be scared, don’t panic. Call The Wiseman Law Firm. Many of these price gouging cases stem from online sales of hand sanitizer, protective masks, and any other type of COVID-19 supplies.

Don’t Respond to a Subpoena Before Contacting Our Firm

The Wiseman Law Firm recommends speaking to Simon Wiseman, Esquire, before you respond to a subpoena, but make sure you do so quickly. Remember, the subpoena will require you to respond within a certain time deadline, and you do not want to violate the deadline. Contact The Wiseman Law Firm immediately.

It is important that you do not incriminate yourself. With a lawyer acting on your behalf, you will be able to respond to the subpoena and begin your defense of the case. The goal in these cases is to avoid charges, or if charges are filed, to get the best result possible under the circumstances.

How the Law Applies to Your Situation

Florida Statutes 501.160, 501.204 and 501.206 (2019) govern price gouging. A violation for price gouging can result in thousands of dollars of civil penalties and leave you at risk of criminal charges, so the stakes are high.

Commodities that are currently listed as essential include:

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Facial masks and gloves
  • Disinfectant wipes and sprays
  • Facial tissue
  • Bleach
  • Cups, plates, and utensils
  • Rubbing alcohol

How an Attorney Can Help You

The Wiseman Law Firm has significant experience successfully handling these cases and is ready to immediately put our experience to work for you. During a crisis, it can be easy to panic about your situation, but it is important to remember that you are innocent until proven guilty. In many cases, people level false charges out of misunderstanding or even frustration. We can help you protect yourself and avoid criminal consequences.

Schedule your free consultation now by calling 407-420-4647 or contacting our firm online.

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