Attention LADWP Customers: Haffner Law is currently pursuing a class action against the City of Los Angeles, alleging unlawful taxes imposed on Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (“LADWP”) customer’s electricity bills. If you are a residential or commercial customer of LADWP, you may have legal claims, and we would like to speak with you in connection with our investigation of this matter.
Are you a resident or business owner in California paying utility bills? Have you noticed a ‘franchise fee’ included in your utility bill by your service provider? If so, you may have paid what could be an illegal tax and could be entitled to a refund. At Haffner Law, we are here to help you recover those potentially unlawfully charged franchise fees.
In California, certain utility companies have been including ‘franchise fees’ in their bills. However, under Propositions 218 and 26, these fees may actually be considered illegal taxes. In other words, Californians may have been unlawfully taxed through their utility bills without their explicit approval, which is a breach of your rights under the California constitution.
If you have been paying these franchise fees, you may be entitled to compensation. This is where Haffner Law can assist. With our deep understanding of the intricacies surrounding Propositions 218 and 26, and our knowledge of this emerging field of law, we stand ready to fight for your rights.
We understand that dealing with legal matters can be daunting, especially when it comes to financial disputes. Rest assured, Haffner Law is committed to guiding you through the process, with no upfront attorney’s fees.
We will start by assessing your utility bills to determine if you have been unlawfully charged with franchise fees.
If your case is valid, we will then help you file a claim against the utility company, taking care of all the paperwork, so you don't have to.
Our expert team will represent you throughout the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and your claim is adequately presented.
At Haffner Law, we operate on a contingency basis. This means we don't charge upfront fees. We only get paid when you win your case and receive compensation.
Illegal franchise fees are charges imposed by utilities companies in California that exceed the legitimate costs of providing services. These fees are in violation of state laws and unfairly burden consumers and businesses.
It can be challenging to identify illegal franchise fees, but some signs include sudden increases in your utility bills or charges that seem disproportionately high compared to the services provided. Reviewing your bills and understanding the regulations can help you spot any discrepancies.
Not all utilities companies charge illegal franchise fees. However, there have been cases where some companies have been found to impose excessive fees that go beyond the legitimate costs allowed by law.
Franchise fees in California are governed by the Public Utilities Code. These laws outline the permissible charges that utilities companies can impose on customers and prohibit fees that exceed the actual costs of providing services.
Yes, you can challenge illegal franchise fees on your own. Start by understanding the laws and regulations related to franchise fees in California. If you believe you are being charged unlawfully, you can file a complaint with the appropriate regulatory authorities or seek legal assistance for further guidance.
If you suspect you are being charged illegal franchise fees, gather evidence such as billing statements and records. Familiarize yourself with the relevant laws and regulations, and consider reaching out to consumer advocacy organizations or legal professionals for advice on how to proceed.
Utilities companies found guilty of charging illegal franchise fees may face penalties, including fines and required refunds to affected customers. These penalties aim to deter companies from engaging in such practices and ensure compliance with the law.
To seek justice for illegal franchise fees, you can file a complaint with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) or other appropriate regulatory bodies. You can also consider seeking legal counsel to explore your options and navigate the process effectively.
Don’t let utility companies unjustly burden you with illegal taxes. If you believe you’ve been paying unlawful franchise fees, contact Haffner Law today. Together, we can work towards justice and rightful compensation. Reach us at [contact information] for a free initial consultation.