Visualize this, you paid thousands of dollars for a vehicle that won't run properly. You've been to the repair shop month after month with the same issues. The lemon law in West Virginia provides you with a means of untangling this mess via arbitration. But many people don't pursue this route because they don't know what to expect. They fear dealing with attorneys and complex court processes. The reality is that arbitration hearings are less complicated than people imagine. Let us explain precisely what goes on at these significant sessions.
[1] Pre-Hearing preparation
Get yourself prepared before your hearing begins. First, compile all your documents. These are repair documents, warranties, and purchase contracts. Then, arrange these documents in chronological order. You should also photograph the issues in your car. These pictures are good evidence.
Your lemon law lawyers in West Virginia will guide you through preparing your case. They will go over all of the documents with you. In addition, they will detail what kinds of questions you may be asked. This preparation period is extremely critical to success.
[2] The hearing room setup
The arbitration hearing is conducted in a plain room. There typically exists one long table with chairs arranged around it. The arbitrator occupies the position at the head of the table. You and your attorney occupy one side. In contrast, the representatives of the car manufacturer occupy the other side opposite you.
No jury is sitting at these hearings. Also, the environment is less formal than a courtroom. The procedure is still governed by rules and regulations, though.
[3] Opening statements
The hearing starts with opening statements. Your side first presents your case summary. You explain why your vehicle is a lemon. Then, you describe how the issues hamper your lifestyle.
Then, the manufacturer makes their initial statement. They will try to show why your vehicle is not a lemon. Every side makes these statements brief and to the point.
[4] Presentation of evidence
Then the most important part of the hearing. You present all your evidence to the arbitrator. This includes repair orders, pictures, and witness statements. Experienced lemon law lawyers in West Virginia will guide you through this.
The company also presents its evidence. They can also present their expert witnesses. Most of the time, they challenge the authenticity of your documents. Because of this, having records as a whole becomes a big issue.
[5] Decision and next steps
After both sides are heard, the arbitrator renders a decision. This is typically a few weeks following the hearing. The decision binds the manufacturer. Yet, you can still appeal to the court if you do not like the decision.
If you prevail, your manufacturer has to either replace your vehicle or refund your money. In some cases, they even reimburse you for your attorney fees and other expenses. A good lemon law attorney in West Virginia can guide you through your possibilities at this point.
In conclusion
It does not need to be intimidating to go through a lemon law arbitration hearing. You can make a solid case with proper preparation and solid legal assistance. Remember that these hearings are there to take care of consumers like you. An expert lemon law attorney in West Virginia can significantly change the outcome of your case. The lemon law in West Virginia provides you with valuable rights as an automobile buyer. Hence, do not allow a faulty car to destroy your life. Act and claim your justice.
Andrew Richardson is the author of this Article. To know more about lemon law in Michigan please visit our website: allenstewart.com