Explainer · The statute
Song-Beverly fee-shifting, in plain English
Why a successful lemon law claim can mean the manufacturer, not you, pays the attorney fees.
The provision
Cal. Civ. Code § 1794(d)
California's Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act does not just entitle a vehicle owner to a buyback, replacement or cash settlement when the manufacturer cannot repair a warranty defect. It also makes the manufacturer pay the owner's attorney fees on top of that recovery.
Section 1794(d) reads, in part: "If the buyer prevails in an action under this section, the buyer shall be allowed by the court to recover as part of the judgment a sum equal to the aggregate amount of costs and expenses, including attorney's fees based on actual time expended, determined by the court to have been reasonably incurred by the buyer in connection with the commencement and prosecution of such action."
What the firm does with it
How fees usually work
Premier Legal Center handles California warranty cases on contingency. When a claim succeeds, § 1794(d) lets the court award the buyer's attorney fees and costs against the manufacturer, on top of what the buyer recovers. If we recover nothing, you owe us nothing, fees or costs.
Fee arrangements depend on the case and the terms of your engagement agreement. The legal team will explain how fees work in your situation before you decide whether to proceed.
Think you have a Song-Beverly claim?
Start My Free Case ReviewAttorney Advertising disclaimer: Prior results do not predict or indicate a similar outcome in any future matter. The information on this page is general information about California law, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. If your vehicle is unsafe to drive, stop driving it and call the firm at (619) 235-0137.