As consumers, we expect to be treated fairly and without discrimination when shopping at our favorite stores. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts to follow store policies and rules, we may find ourselves being banned from a particular business. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re a loyal customer who has made multiple purchases at the store.
In California, there are laws in place that protect consumers from unfair treatment by businesses. Under both federal and state law, customers have certain rights that must be respected when shopping at stores. If you’ve been banned from a store without just cause, you may want to consider taking legal action.
Federal Law: The Civil Rights Act of 1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits businesses from discriminating against customers based on their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This law applies to all types of businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Under this act, customers have the right to be served without discrimination, even if they don’t conform to societal norms.
If you’ve been banned from a store based on your race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, you may have a valid claim under the Civil Rights Act of 1964. To prove discrimination, you’ll need to show that the business intentionally discriminated against you and that this discrimination was the primary reason for being banned.
California Law: The Unruh Civil Rights Act
The Unruh Civil Rights Act is a state law that prohibits businesses from discriminating against customers based on their disability, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This act also applies to all types of businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Under the Unruh Civil Rights Act, customers have the right to be served without discrimination, even if they have a disability. If you’ve been banned from a store based on your disability, you may have a valid claim under this act. To prove discrimination, you’ll need to show that the business intentionally discriminated against you and that this discrimination was the primary reason for being banned.
Other Potential Claims
In addition to federal and state law claims, you may also have other potential claims depending on the circumstances surrounding your banishment from the store. For example:
- Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: If the business’s conduct was extreme and outrageous, causing you significant emotional distress, you may be able to recover damages for intentional infliction of emotional distress.
- Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress: If the business’s negligence caused you emotional distress, you may be able to recover damages for negligent infliction of emotional distress.
What Can You Do?
If you’ve been banned from a store without just cause, don’t give up! Here are some steps you can take:
- Keep Records: Keep records of all transactions and interactions with the business, including dates, times, and details of what happened.
- File a Complaint: File a complaint with your local consumer protection agency or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney who specializes in consumer rights and discrimination law to discuss your options for seeking damages.
Remember, as customers, we have certain rights that must be respected by businesses. Don’t let a store’s unfair treatment push you around! Take action and fight for your right to shop without discrimination.
Conclusion
Being banned from a store can be frustrating and unfair. However, with the right legal knowledge and support, you may be able to recover damages for the business’s wrongdoing. Remember to keep records of all transactions and interactions with the business, file a complaint with your local consumer protection agency or the DFEH, and seek legal advice from an attorney who specializes in consumer rights and discrimination law. By taking these steps, you can fight for your right to shop without discrimination and hold the business accountable for its actions.
Disclaimer
This post is not intended to be legal advice. If you’ve been banned from a store without just cause, consult with an attorney who specializes in consumer rights and discrimination law to discuss your options for seeking damages.
