My Family Member Is Scared to Call an Attorney About Their Lemon Car — Here’s How to Help Them Take the First Step

Watching someone you care about suffer through constant car problems can be frustrating — especially when you know they may qualify for help under California's lemon law, but they’re too scared to talk to an attorney.

Whether it’s fear of legal fees, distrust of lawyers, or simply not knowing what to expect, many people delay or avoid seeking help — and they suffer for it.

If this sounds like your spouse, sibling, parent, or friend, this blog is for you. Let’s break down why they’re scared — and how you can help them overcome it without pushing too hard.

Why Are They So Hesitant? 5 Common Fears About Contacting a Lemon Law Attorney

1. I don’t want to pay a bunch of legal fees.

➤ The truth? In most lemon law cases in California, the manufacturer pays your attorney fees, not the client. This means they can usually get legal help at no upfront cost.

2. I don’t want to go to court.

➤ Some lemon law cases don’t go to court. They’re resolved through negotiation, and an attorney can handle nearly everything on their behalf — often without them even stepping into a courtroom.

3. It’s probably not a strong enough case.

➤ Many people wrongly assume their case is weak. But if the car has been repaired multiple times, has safety issues, or has been out of service for 30+ days, they may qualify for relief. Only a professional can give that clarity.

4. I don’t want to deal with more stress.

➤ That’s understandable. But dealing with the car every day is already stressful. A lemon law attorney is there to take that stress off their plate, not add to it.

5. I don’t trust attorneys.

➤ Not all attorneys are created equal. A good lemon law attorney will listen, explain things clearly, and offer a free consultation without pressure.

How You Can Help Them Take That First Step

✅ Normalize the fear

Say something like: I get it — reaching out can feel intimidating. But you don’t have to commit to anything. Just getting information could help.

✅ Offer to help them make the call

Offer to sit with them while they call, or even make the call yourself to ask basic questions. Sometimes a familiar voice makes all the difference.

✅ Remind them what’s at stake

Frame it positively: If this works out, you could be out of that lemon for good — and maybe even get money back.

✅ Start small

Encourage them to send a simple text or email to the attorney first. Many firms (like ours) are happy to respond in writing if a phone call feels like too much.

✅ Choose the right attorney

A friendly, approachable attorney makes all the difference. Look for someone who explains things in plain English and truly listens — not someone who just talks over your head.

Let’s Make This Easy — No Pressure, Just a Conversation

If your loved one is dealing with a defective vehicle and feels overwhelmed, let them know they don’t have to fight alone. At our office, we offer free, no-obligation consultations, and we’ll explain their rights in simple, honest terms.

📞 Please Call at 949-535-1800

Or send us a message — we’re here to listen, not pressure.

Because no one deserves to be stuck in a lemon — especially not someone you care about.