Article Structure
In New Jersey, consumers facing issues with new vehicles can seek clarity and recourse through the Lemon Law program, which is designed to provide a resolution for individuals who may have purchased a defective car. The Lemon Law Application form serves as the gateway to this process, guiding applicants through the necessary steps to submit their claims. Accurate and thorough completion of the form is crucial; it must be filled out clearly, either by typing or using legible handwriting in dark ink. Importantly, applicants are required to attach a copy of all relevant documents—this includes the sales contract or lease agreement, as well as any service orders, communications with the vehicle manufacturer, and other supporting materials that demonstrate the ongoing issues with the car. Original documents should not be sent, ensuring the preservation of your records. By signing and returning the completed application to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs' Lemon Law Unit, you initiate a review process where your case will be assessed for completeness and eligibility. If your application is accepted, you will receive a notification to submit a filing fee. Should your application not meet the requirements, it will be returned with an explanation. Awareness of these procedural elements can ease concerns and help you navigate a path toward a potential remedy for your vehicle troubles.
Nj Lemon Law Application Example
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General
Division of Consumer Affairs
Office of Consumer Protection
Lemon Law Unit
P.O. Box 45026
Newark, New Jersey 07101
Phone:
Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/
Instructions for Completing the
Application for New Car Lemon Law
Dispute Resolution
Please complete the attached application either by typing or printing legibly in dark ink. Be accurate and thorough. You must attach a clear copy of all relevant documents, including the sales contract or lease agreement, service or work orders and correspondence between you and the manufacturer, or its authorized dealer, relating to the problem(s). Do not send your original documents.
Sign and return the completed application, together with a copy of each document, to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Lemon Law Unit, P.O. Box 45026, Newark, NJ 07101.
The Lemon Law Unit will review your application for completeness and eligibility. If the application is accepted, you will be notified and asked (only after acceptance) to forward a filing fee of $50. Do not send the filing fee until you are notified to do so. If your application is rejected, it will be returned to you with a statement of the reason(s) for its rejection.
Please remember to sign and date the application. Your failure to complete any questions or submit all of the required documents may result in the rejection of your application.
Notice
The decision of the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs under this program is binding on both parties, subject to a right of appeal to the Superior Court by either party. You may wish to consult an attorney before participating in this program, since the manufacturer will be represented by an attorney.
New Jersey Office of the Attorney General
Division of Consumer Affairs
Office of Consumer Protection
Lemon Law Unit
P.O. Box 45026
Newark, New Jersey 07101
Phone:
Website: www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/
New Car Lemon Law Dispute Resolution Application
Please be advised that any information you supply on this complaint form may be subject to public disclosure. If an investigation into the matter is conducted, the information is subject to public disclosure only after the completion of the investigation. You are also advised that the completed complaint form is a “government record,” which the Lemon Law Unit may be obligated to provide to anyone making a request pursuant to the Open Public Records Act (OPRA).
Consumer Information
Name:____________________________________________
Address:_ ________________________________________
City:____________________________________________
State:_________________________ ZIP:______________
Home Telephone Number:____________________________
(include area code)
Work Telephone Number:___________________________
(include area code)
FAX telephone Number:____________________________
(include area code)
For Office Use Only
L.L.case number:_____________________________
Assigned to:_____________________________
Date accepted:_____________________________
O.A.L. docket number:___________________________
Date completed:_____________________________
Approved by:_____________________________
For statistical and informational purposes only. Your age: |
60 or older
Attorney Information (If an attorney is going to represent you, please provide the following information.)
Attorney’s name:__________________________________________________________________________________________
Law firm:________________________________________________________________________________________________
Address:_ ________________________________________________________________________________________________
City:__________________________________________________State:_________________________ZIP code:_____________
Telephone number:_______________________________________FAX number:_ ______________________________________
(include area code) |
(include area code) |
|
Vehicle Information
1.Is the vehicle registered in New Jersey?
If “No,” was the vehicle purchased or leased in New Jersey?
Yes Yes
No No
2.Manufacturer:_ __________________________________________________________________________________________
Make:______________________________________________ |
Model:___________________________________________ |
|
Year:_________________ |
Color:____________________ |
Body type:________________________________________ |
3.Is your vehicle normally used for commercial purposes?
Yes
No
4. What was the mileage on delivery? ______________________ |
Present mileage: _____________________ |
5.Date of delivery: ____________________________________
Month |
Day |
Year |
6.The vehicle identification number (the VIN can be found on the registration): _________________________________________
7.Dealer from which the vehicle was purchased or leased:
Name:____________________________________________________ Telephone number : _____________________________
(include area code)
Street Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________ State: ______________________________ ZIP code: _______________
8.Company to which you make monthly payments:
Name:____________________________________________________ Telephone number : _____________________________
(include area code)
Street Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________
City: ______________________________________ State: _______________________________ ZIP code: _______________
Please provide the loan or lease account number: ________________________________________________________________
Financial Information
9.Please attach a copy of all sales or lease documents and receipts.
10.Other costs, including: any towing charges, rental fees and/or cost of modifications.
Please specify and attach receipts _________________________________________________________ .
Nonconformity Repair Information
11.Briefly describe the defect which substantially impairs your vehicle’s use, value or safety.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
12. |
Is this defect the result of your abuse, neglect or an unauthorized modification or alteration? |
Yes |
No |
|
If “Yes,” please explain: ___________________________________________________________________________________ |
||
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_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
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13. |
Have you notified the manufacturer of the defect, by certified mail, return receipt requested? |
Yes |
No |
|
What was the certified mail return receipt date? _______________ What was the vehicle’s mileage at the time? _____________ |
||
14. |
Was there a final repair attempt? |
Yes |
No |
|
If “Yes,” what was the date of the final repair attempt? _____________________________________ |
|
|
|
What was the vehicle’s mileage at the time of the final repair attempt? __________________________ |
|
|
|
If “No,” please explain: ____________________________________________________________________________________ |
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_______________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
||
15. Was the vehicle ever repaired by anyone other than a dealer authorized by the manufacturer? |
Yes |
No |
|
|
If “Yes,” by whom? _______________________________________________________________________________________ |
||
16. |
If you answered “Yes” to question number 15, was that repair authorized by the manufacturer or its dealer? |
Yes |
No |
17.What was the date you first presented your vehicle to the dealer for repair of the defect?_________________________________
What was the vehicle’s mileage at the time? _________________________________
18. If your vehicle experienced one or more defects, was the car out of service due to repairs for a total of 20 or more days?
If “Yes,” how many days? __________________ |
Yes |
No
19. Give a chronology of the repair attempts for the defect.
Brief description of problem(s)
1st Defect |
Date |
Mileage |
Days out of service |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
|
|
|
|
2nd Defect |
Date |
Mileage |
Days out of service |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
_ _______________ |
_ _________________ |
__________ |
|
__________________________________________________ |
|
|
|
|
20. |
Do any of the problems continue to exist? |
Yes |
No |
|
If “Yes,” please explain: ____________________________________________________________________________________ |
||
|
________________________________________________________________________________________________________ |
||
21. |
Please check one: |
|
|
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The defect substantially impairs the use, value or safety of the vehicle. |
|
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The defect is a “serious safety defect” which is likely to cause death or serious bodily injury if the vehicle is driven. |
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Additional Information
22. Have you previously participated in any arbitration for the nonconformity for which you are now seeking relief?
If “Yes,” what was the date of the final arbitration decision?___________________________________ |
Yes |
No |
|
|
|
Did you accept the decision? |
Yes |
No |
If “Yes,” please explain and give the current status: (Use additional sheets of paper if needed.) |
|
|
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I certify that the manufacturer has not yet given me a refund or replacement, and that all statements made in connection with this request for dispute resolution are true to the best of my knowledge. I understand that this document and its attachments are a part of the public record.
I am aware that I can participate in the dispute resolution process regarding this motor vehicle only once and that further applications will not be accepted after a final decision is issued in this case.
_ _____________________________________________________ |
____________________________ |
Signature |
Date |
|
|
|
|
If you have not already done so, please attach a copy (do not send the original) of the following documents:
• Final repair opportunity letter to the manufacturer |
• |
Purchase order |
|
• Certified mail return receipts |
• |
Finance agreement |
|
• All relevant evidence of repair attempts |
• |
Lease agreement |
|
• |
Sales invoice |
• |
Work orders/repair invoices |
• |
All towing charges, rental fees, expert witness fees and legal fees |
• |
Vehicle registration |
Form Characteristics
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Governing Law | The New Jersey Lemon Law is governed by the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act and specifically N.J.S.A. 56:12-29 et seq. |
| Eligibility Requirement | To qualify, the vehicle must be a new car, meaning it has not been previously owned or registered. |
| Documentation Needed | Applicants must attach copies of all pertinent documents, like the sales contract, service records, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or dealer. |
| Filing Fee | A $50 filing fee is required but should only be submitted after the application has been accepted and the applicant has been notified. |
| Application Review | The Lemon Law Unit reviews your application for completeness. Incomplete applications may be rejected. |
| Binding Decision | Decisions made by the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs are binding and may be appealed in the Superior Court. |
| Public Disclosure Notice | Any information supplied may be subject to public disclosure, particularly after any investigation is completed. |
Guidelines on Utilizing Nj Lemon Law Application
Filling out the New Jersey Lemon Law Application form requires careful attention to detail. Be sure to provide complete and accurate information. After submission, the Lemon Law Unit will review your application to determine eligibility. If accepted, you will be notified to send the filing fee. Otherwise, if your application is incomplete, it will be returned to you.
- Gather all necessary documents, including the sales contract or lease agreement, service orders, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or dealer.
- Fill out your personal information in the Consumer Information section, including name, address, and contact details.
- If applicable, complete the Attorney Information section with your attorney's details.
- Provide Vehicle Information such as registration status, manufacturer, make, model, year, color, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Complete the Financial Information section by attaching a copy of all sales or lease documents and any other relevant financial information.
- Describe the defect that is causing issues in the Nonconformity Repair Information section, providing detailed information about the problem.
- Indicate whether this defect is due to your actions, such as abuse or neglect.
- Document whether you notified the manufacturer by certified mail and include the date and mileage at that time.
- If there was a final repair attempt, provide the date and vehicle mileage during that attempt.
- List all repair attempts, including the dates, mileage, and duration out of service for each defect.
- Answer whether any issues with the vehicle persist.
- Indicate the nature of the defect by checking the appropriate box that describes its impact on the use, value, or safety of the vehicle.
- If you have participated in prior arbitration regarding this issue, provide the date of the final decision and its current status.
- Sign and date the application, confirming the accuracy of your statements.
- Make copies of your documents – do not submit originals. Ensure you attach the required documents before submission.
- Send your completed application and copies of all documents to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Lemon Law Unit at the specified address.
What You Should Know About This Form
What is the purpose of the New Jersey Lemon Law Application Form?
The New Jersey Lemon Law Application Form is designed for consumers who believe they have purchased or leased a defective vehicle. This form allows individuals to initiate a dispute resolution process with the manufacturer to resolve issues related to vehicle defects that significantly impair the use, value, or safety of the vehicle. By submitting this application, consumers can seek a refund or replacement vehicle under the Lemon Law provisions.
What documents do I need to submit with my application?
You must attach copies of various documents that support your claim. These include the sales contract or lease agreement, service or work orders, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or authorized dealer about the defects. Do not send the original documents, as they will not be returned. Incomplete submissions may delay your application or lead to its rejection.
How much does it cost to file the Lemon Law Application?
Filing the Lemon Law Application does not require an upfront payment. After your application is reviewed and accepted, you will be notified to send a filing fee of $50. It is important to wait for this notification before sending any payment.
What happens if my application is rejected?
If the Lemon Law Unit finds your application incomplete or ineligible, they will return it to you along with a statement explaining the reasons for the rejection. This gives you an opportunity to address the issues identified and re-submit your application, ensuring you have a chance to rectify any oversights.
Can I appeal the decision made under the Lemon Law?
Yes, the decision made by the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs is binding on both you and the manufacturer. However, if you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to appeal the decision to the Superior Court. Consulting an attorney may be beneficial before proceeding with the appeal, as the manufacturer will likely have legal representation.
Common mistakes
When completing the New Jersey Lemon Law Application form, individuals often make several common mistakes that can delay or jeopardize their claim. One of the most frequent errors is failing to provide complete and accurate information. This includes not filling out all sections of the application or providing vague responses. Clear and detailed answers are essential, as omissions can result in the application being rejected.
Another common mistake is not attaching the required documentation. The application specifies that applicants must include relevant documents such as the sales contract, service orders, and correspondence with the manufacturer or dealer. Without these critical attachments, the application may be deemed incomplete, leading to rejection.
Many applicants overlook the importance of signing and dating the application. It's a simple step, but failing to do so can render the application invalid. Ensure that your signature is present, as the application will not be accepted otherwise.
Additionally, some individuals mistakenly send original documents instead of photocopies. The instructions clearly state that originals should not be sent, as they will not be returned. Therefore, it is vital to provide clear copies of all requested documents.
Another prevalent issue is confusion over the filing fee. Applicants are often unsure about when to send this payment. Remember, the $50 fee should only be paid after receiving notification of application acceptance. Sending this fee prematurely can complicate the process.
Timing is also critical. Applicants sometimes wait too long to notify the manufacturer of defects, which can negatively impact their claim. There is a specific timeframe wherein defects must be reported, and delays can lead to complications. Be proactive in communications with the manufacturer.
Finally, some individuals fail to seek legal advice, despite the recommendation. The complexity of the Lemon Law process can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the manufacturer's legal representation. Consulting with an attorney can provide clarity and strengthen your case, enhancing the probability of a favorable outcome.
Documents used along the form
The New Jersey Lemon Law Application form is an essential document for consumers seeking relief from manufacturing defects in new vehicles. To ensure a complete submission, you'll need to include several other forms and documents. Below is a list of commonly required documents that accompany the Lemon Law Application.
- Sales Contract or Lease Agreement: This document outlines the terms of the sale or lease of the vehicle. It includes purchase price, payment terms, and conditions of the agreement, serving as proof of the transaction.
- Service or Work Orders: These records detail repairs attempted for the defect. They document the nature of the issue, dates of service, and the steps taken by the manufacturer or authorized dealer to resolve the problem.
- Correspondence with Manufacturer: Any written communication exchanged between you and the manufacturer or dealer regarding the vehicle's defect should be included. This helps demonstrate your effort to resolve the issue before seeking legal recourse.
- Final Repair Opportunity Letter: This letter documents the manufacturer's last chance to fix the defect before you pursue action through the Lemon Law. It is vital evidence that you gave the manufacturer an opportunity to rectify the problem.
Submitting all required documents accurately is crucial. This approach increases the chances of a smooth review process and helps prevent rejection of your application due to missing information.
Similar forms
- Consumer Complaint Form: Similar to the Lemon Law application, this document allows individuals to report issues with products or services. It requires detailed information about the product, the problem, and previous attempts to resolve the issue.
- Warranty Claim Form: Like the Lemon Law form, this document enables consumers to claim a defect covered under warranty. It often asks for proof of purchase and details about the defect or issue.
- Small Claims Court Filing: This document initiates a claim in small claims court for disputes involving monetary damages. Both forms require detailed descriptions of the issue and supporting evidence.
- Product Return Form: This is used by consumers wanting to return a defective product. Much like the Lemon Law application, it requires purchase information and details about the defect.
- Service Request Form: When a consumer needs maintenance or repairs, this form documents the problems and service history, much like the Lemon Law form tracks repair attempts.
- Insurance Claim Form: This document is submitted to request funds for repair or replacement after an insurable incident. It requires information similar to the Lemon Law application regarding the incident and prior steps taken.
- Construction Defect Complaint: Homeowners use this to report issues with construction work or materials. Both forms are aimed at resolving significant defects affecting use and safety.
- Rental Agreement Dispute Resolution Form: Like the Lemon Law application, this form seeks to address issues within a rental agreement, focusing on problems experienced while using the rented property.
- Consumer Protection Agency Complaint Form: This document allows consumers to officially report violations of consumer rights. Similar to the Lemon Law, it seeks information about the product and prior efforts to resolve issues.
- Vehicle Title Dispute Application: When owners face issues regarding vehicle titles, they fill out this document. It details the owner’s claims and proof of ownership—similar to providing a history of vehicle repairs and defects in a Lemon Law application.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the New Jersey Lemon Law Application form, it is important to ensure accuracy and completeness. Below is a list of recommended actions to take, as well as common mistakes to avoid.
- Do: Complete the application clearly by typing or using dark ink. Legibility is paramount.
- Do: Include a clear copy of all relevant documents, such as the sales contract and service orders.
- Do: Sign and date the application before submitting it.
- Do: Notify the manufacturer of the defect through certified mail, and retain the receipt.
- Don't: Send original documents. Only copies should be submitted.
- Don't: Wait to receive a notification before sending the $50 filing fee; it should only be sent upon request.
Following these guidelines will help facilitate a smoother application process and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Misconceptions
There are several misconceptions surrounding the New Jersey Lemon Law Application form that can lead to confusion. Below is a list of some of the most common myths, along with clarifications to help you better understand the application process.
- You must send the original documents with your application. This is false. You only need to attach copies of relevant documents, not the originals.
- A filing fee is required with the application submission. This is incorrect. You should wait until you are notified that your application has been accepted before sending the $50 filing fee.
- Your application will automatically be accepted if you provide sufficient documentation. This is misleading. The acceptance of your application is subject to a review for completeness and eligibility by the Lemon Law Unit.
- You can submit your application without including a complete chronology of repair attempts. This is not true. Failing to thoroughly document your repair history may result in your application being rejected.
- You can participate in the dispute resolution process multiple times for the same issue. This is incorrect. You can only submit one application for a specific nonconformity; follow-up applications will not be accepted after a final decision has been issued.
- Your personal information will not be publicly disclosed. This is not entirely accurate. Any information provided may be subject to public disclosure, particularly if requested under the Open Public Records Act.
- You need a lawyer to participate in the Lemon Law process. This is a misconception. While it can be beneficial to consult with a legal professional, it is not mandatory to have an attorney represent you.
- The Lemon Law Unit will help you fix your vehicle. This is misleading. The role of the Lemon Law Unit is to facilitate the dispute resolution process, not to perform repairs on vehicles.
Understanding these clarifications can help you navigate the New Jersey Lemon Law process more effectively. It’s important to approach the application with accurate knowledge and documentation to enhance your chances of a successful resolution.
Key takeaways
Understanding the process for the New Jersey Lemon Law Application can significantly impact your chances of a successful resolution. Here are five key takeaways to remember:
- Complete and Accurate Submission: Fill out the application carefully, ensuring that all information is accurate and thorough. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may get rejected.
- Document Requirements: Attach clear copies of all relevant documents such as the sales or lease agreement, service orders, and any correspondence with the manufacturer or dealer. Original documents should not be sent.
- Filing Fee Notification: Wait for notification before sending the $50 filing fee. The fee is only required if the application is accepted.
- Potential for Rejection: The Lemon Law Unit will review your application. If rejected, you will receive an explanation for the decision. Make sure to heed any feedback provided.
- Right to Consult an Attorney: Since manufacturers typically have legal representation, consider consulting an attorney before participating in the program to ensure your rights are adequately protected.
By focusing on these aspects, individuals can navigate the application process with greater confidence and clarity.
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