The Executive Director of the Los Angeles Department of Consumer and Business Services has a very important message for our audience: If you have a problem, you are not alone.
The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Services is like a big tent under which several agencies providing all kinds of consumer services are connected. Its leader, Maggie Becerra, wants people to know that whatever their question, they can help.
Some of the topics you can get help with include “minimum wage, tenant and landlord rights, immigrant issues, financial empowerment, foreclosure, real estate fraud, consumer complaint investigation and mediation in case of disagreement,” Becerra said.
And if you need them, they can also help you file a complaint with the court.
For this reason, Becerra says “that they contact our department if they have been the victim of fraud, paid for an item they did not receive, or a service that was not rendered.”
This agency is a nerve center that connects all services. So by dialing 1800 593 8222, they can direct you to the agency or resources you need, whatever situation you are facing.
“If our agency isn’t the right one (they can) refer you to the appropriate agency for the issue at hand,” Becerra added.
Visit the dcba.Lacounty.Gov site to learn more about all the services offered, both for the consumer and for tenants, workers and immigrants. They can arbitrate your case and even help you in legal cases or in any other situation where you think your rights are not being respected.
And speaking of consumer protection, Becerra reiterated that they can also help you if you’ve been the victim of fraud, so don’t be afraid to approach them.
“Often consumers fall victim to scams but don’t report them because they’re ashamed, don’t know how or who to complain to. The consumer and business department is here,” Becerra said.
Also, it is important to note that all services of the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs are free.