Los Angeles Fraudulent Misrepresentation Attorney
When an individual or business makes a false statement of fact with the intent to deceive, California law allows victims to pursue powerful legal remedies. Intentional misrepresentation in California, also commonly referred to as fraudulent misrepresentation or fraud, is a serious legal claim that arises when someone knowingly lies to induce another person to rely on that deception, resulting in harm. Understanding your rights under California law and securing an experienced fraud lawyer can make all the difference in achieving justice and financial recovery.
Case Results
$3.4M Recovered
Business Litigation
Assisted in recovery ofthe balance of the purchase price for the sale of a business
$2.7M Verdict
Business Litigation
Assisted in obtaining jury verdict for breach of contract and conversion of business ownership, jury verdict only $25k less than requested
$342k Judgement
Business Litigation
For fraudulent inducement of loans, breach of contract, and defamation in false online posts and reviews
$317k Judgement
Business Litigation
For two brothers and their international business after proving fraud, breach of contract, and defamation by a serial fraudster, despite delays, false accusations, and a last-minute bankruptcy filing
Judgement
Business Litigation
For an elderly landlord and trust, defeating all claims by evicted tenants who tried to misuse COVID as an excuse for nonpayment
$385k Judgement
Business Litigation
For a textile manufacturer in a contract dispute, despite a cross-complaint from the wholesaler
$657k Judgement
Business Litigation
Against a real estate agent who misappropriated client funds, using forensic accounting to prove full fraud and conversion.
$398k Judgement
Business Litigation
By enforcing a promissory note, recovering 100% of damages plus interest
$125k Judgement
Business Litigation
Helped obtain a default judgment against an attorney for unpaid loan balance and battery, after securing terminating sanctions for discovery violations
Disclaimer: Illustrative examples of case types and outcomes. Attorneys cannot guarantee outcomes. Results are case-specific and depend on the true facts of the case. More information here.
What is Intentional Misrepresentation in California
Intentional misrepresentation is a type of fraud in California.
A claim for intentional misrepresentation requires showing that:
1. The person made a knowingly false representation or with reckless disregard for the truth;
2. With the intent to deceive or induce reliance;
3. Justifiable reliance by the victim; and
4. Resulting damages.
How is Intentional Misrepresentation Different from Negligent Misrepresentation
Fraud is an intentional tort, so the intent to deceive is necessary.
Intentional misrepresentation requires that the defendant knowingly made a false statement with such intent.
Negligent misrepresentation requires that the defendant made the false statement honestly believing them to be true or without any reasonable grounds for believing them to be the true. Because the defendant believed the statement to be true, the intent to deceive is arguably lacking.
Examples of Intentional Misrepresentation
Intentional misrepresentations occur in many types of scenarios, including:
- Contract disputes where one party lied about key terms or facts to induce an agreement
- Business or commercial fraud where false financial statements or information are provided
- Real estate transactions where someone is tricked into signing documents
Common Defenses to Intentional Misrepresentation Claims
Defendants in intentional misrepresentation cases may raise a variety of defenses, such as:
- Lack of knowledge or intent where the statement was made without knowing it was false
- No justifiable reliance where the plaintiff relied on information they knew or should have known was false or did not rely on it at all
- No resulting harm when a false statement was made, if it did not cause the plaintiff any measurable damage
Remedies for Intentional Misrepresentation
The remedies vary and can include monetary damages, injunctive or other equitable relief, and punitive damages. Statutory or contractual attorney’s fees may also be available in some cases.
Because intentional misrepresentations occur in a broad range of legal contexts, it is critical that a fraud attorney on your side reviews the evidence to determine the remedies available.
Why You Need an Experienced Los Angeles Misrepresentation Attorney
Intentional misrepresentation claims can be some of the most complex and high-stakes civil disputes in California. Whether you’ve been deceived in a business deal, misled by a contractor, or harmed by fraudulent conduct in a real estate transaction or contract negotiation, you need legal counsel of a misrepresentation attorney with deep expertise in civil fraud claims and strategic litigation.
We work closely with clients to:
- Evaluate the strength of your claim;
- Gather your evidence;
- Calculate your damages and potential recovery;
- Aggressively negotiate with opposing parties; and
- Litigate through trial if necessary to secure the best outcome.
Los Angeles Business Litigation Lawyer Reviews
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
“We have retained Hee and Litigation, P.C. Law Firm for all of our business legal needs for over four years, and we cannot recommend them highly enough.
Hee is not only knowledgeable and experienced but also incredibly thorough and detail-oriented. He meticulously reviewed all aspects of our business legal challenges, identifying potential issues and opportunities that we had not considered.
His strategic approach and ability to think several steps ahead gave us a tremendous sense of confidence and security throughout the entire process, especially the trial.
During the trial, he was fully prepared every single day, explaining his thought process to us about why he was asking or not asking certain questions to all the witnesses, raising timely objections with majority of them being sustained by the Judge…At the end of the day he wanted to make sure that we put all of our ammo on the table and we were able to successfully do that.
Hee also communicates very clearly and has been patient in explaining legal jargon and complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand, ensuring that we were well-informed and comfortable with every decision we made.
If you are looking for a lawyer who will provide exceptional legal counsel and support, we highly recommend Hee and Litigation, P.C. Law Firm.”
S. A. (Business, Fraud)
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
“Working with Hee Kim and Litigation, PC has been an exceptional experience. He consistently keeps me informed on every aspect of my case, providing clear details on costs, pros, and benefits of each option. His dedication to my interests is evident at every step, and he ensures I am fully involved in the process.
Attending court hearings with him is reassuring as he remembers every detail and effectively refutes the other side’s claims. His preparation for depositions is impeccable, always calling out any inconsistencies. His strategic advice on when to take specific actions or make motions has been spot on.
His litigation approach is unmatched, and he is highly aggressive in fighting for his clients. He prioritizes his clients, making each one feel like his only case. I highly recommend Hee and his firm to anyone seeking strong legal representation! “
S. A. (Business, Fraud)
“Hee and his team have been our general counsel for years and have handled insurance, real estate, business and collections matters. They are very easy to work with and have a wide range of expertise that is very helpful. Highly recommend!”
E. A. (Business)
Fraudulent Misrepresentation Attorney FAQs
What does not count as intentional misrepresentation?
An opinion or statement about one’s judgment, such as the quality, value, or similar, are typically not considered a representation of fact. An example is saying, “this is the best car ever!” Even if you prove it is not the best car ever, it is likely not an intentional misrepresentation.
Can it be an intentional misrepresentation about anything?
The misrepresentation must be material, meaning it must be about something that would typically affect someone’s decision. Saying, “this car has two cupholders” when in reality it only has one, may not be material because a judge or jury can decide a typical car shopper will not make the decision to buy the car or not on that fact. Saying, “this car is new”, is likely material, because whether a car is new or used would likely affect one’s decision to purchase the car.
How does intentional misrepresentation have to be proven?
In order to receive punitive damages based on a claim for intentional misrepresentation, you must prove that the acts were committed by clear and convincing evidence. This means that it is “highly probable” that the misrepresentations were intentionally malicious, fraudulent, or oppressive conduct.
What if something was hidden from me?
The failure to disclose a material fact is considered another type of fraud in California, known as concealment.
What is the deadline to file a claim for fraudulent misrepresentation ?
The statute of limitations in California for fraud is three years. Because fraud claims by nature allege that the defendant misrepresented material information, the “discovery rule” likely comes into play to determine when the statute of limitations starts running or is triggered.
What is the discovery rule?
The discovery rule, in essence, is a legal principle that says the statute of limitations begins once the plaintiff or victim knew, or should have known, about the injury or loss caused by the fraud. It means the time to file a lawsuit starts when you “discover” the fraud. Because it starts when you either knew, or should have known, about the fraud, an experienced fraud attorney is necessary to protect your interests.