Consumer Laws

Consumer law claims protect individuals and small businesses when products or services are faulty, not as described, or sold using unfair or misleading tactics under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). Our Consumer Law Claims team helps clients enforce these rights and recover compensation efficiently and strategically.

Our Consumer Law Claims Services

We act in a wide range of disputes arising under the ACL and related legislation, including:

  • Faulty or unsafe products that do not meet statutory guarantees (for example, vehicles, appliances, building products and consumer goods).
  • Services not provided with due care and skill, not fit for purpose, or not delivered within a reasonable time (such as trades, professional services and building works).
  • Misleading or deceptive conduct in advertising and sales, including false promises, hidden conditions and misleading omissions.
  • Unfair contract terms in standard form contracts, including finance, telecommunications, gym and subscription contracts.
  • Unconscionable conduct, pressure selling and “take it or leave it” arrangements that go beyond hard bargaining.
  • Credit, debt and consumer finance disputes where loans, leases or credit products have been sold in breach of consumer protections.

What We Do For You

We focus on resolving disputes quickly and commercially while protecting your legal position. Typical steps include:

  • Analysing your contract, invoices, communications and expert reports to assess the strength and value of your claim.
  • Advising on your statutory guarantees and remedies, including repair, replacement, refund and compensation for reasonably foreseeable loss.
  • Drafting robust letters of demand and negotiating directly with the business, insurer or their lawyers to seek early resolution.
  • Guiding you through complaints to regulators or government agencies where appropriate, such as the Queensland Office of Fair Trading or the ACCC.
  • Representing you in tribunals and courts, including Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT), State courts and the Federal jurisdiction, when litigation is necessary.

Courts, Tribunals and Small Claims

Not every dispute needs a fully contested court case, and in many matters a small claims or tribunal pathway is suitable.

  • We advise which forum is best for your dispute, taking into account claim size, cost, timing and your appetite for risk.
  • For small claims, we help you prepare the essential documents, supporting evidence and witness material so that your case is clearly put and procedurally compliant.
  • In larger or more complex matters, we prepare formal originating applications, affidavits and statements of claim, and manage court processes including service, interlocutory applications and settlement conferences.

Why Choose Cronin Miller Litigation

Cronin Miller Litigation is a Gold Coast-based firm that specialises in commercial and dispute resolution work, with a strong track record in litigation for commercial claimants.

  • We act for consumers, small businesses and commercial clients across Queensland and interstate in disputes that often sit at the intersection of consumer and commercial law.
  • Our partners and senior lawyers are experienced negotiators and courtroom advocates who understand how businesses and insurers think, and how to leverage that for effective outcomes.
  • As a specialist litigation practice, we are structured to move quickly, provide clear strategic advice and keep you informed about prospects, costs and settlement options at every step.

How We Work With You

We know that consumer disputes can be stressful and timeconsuming, especially when you are already managing work, family or business obligations.

  • At your initial consultation, we listen to your story, outline your legal options in plain language and give a realistic view of likely outcomes and timeframes.
  • We provide tailored strategies to fit your objectives—whether that is a swift commercial settlement, correction of an ongoing problem, or a principled court outcome.
  • Fee options can be discussed upfront, including staged work or alternative billing structures where appropriate to the nature and size of the claim.

To discuss a potential consumer law claim, you can contact our Gold Coast office and speak directly with a member of our litigation team.