| Welcome to the winter issue of our Private Client newsletter, A Private Word, keeping you up to date courtesy of a quarterly round-up of news from the legal world and useful, topical advice.
Seasons’ Greetings! The Christmas shopping whirlwind is over and the sales rush put on hold by the weather, but with all the shopping you probably did before Christmas, we recommend you take a moment to understand your consumer rights concerning returns, refunds and exchanges.
Unwanted Gifts: Individual stores can decide whether they issue refunds or exchanges on unwanted gifts. Check when buying; some will give you a gift receipt, although these are generally for items like clothing that may need to be exchanged for an alternative size. Buying Online: When buying online, you have additional rights. Unless the gift is custom made, there is a 'cooling off' period of seven days from when you receive it, during which you may return it for a full refund without having to give a reason. Credit Card Purchases: If you spend between £100 and £30,000 on a credit card (not a debit or charge card), you may be protected under the Consumer Credit Act which makes the credit card company equally liable for any breach of contract. January Sales: When you buy something in a sale that is faulty, wrongly described or not fit for purpose, you have the same rights to your money back as with a normal purchase. Remember to keep all receipts and, if you are in any doubt about where you stand, contact us and we will be able to advise you on your rights and the course of action you should take.
Wishing you a very Happy and Healthy New Year.
Andrew Brooke | 
