Tennessee Real Estate Practice Exam

Under the Consumer Protection Act, what type of offense is committing an unfair or deceptive act?

1. Class A Felony

2. Class C Misdemeanor

3. Class B Misdemeanor

4. Civil Liability

The correct answer is: Class B Misdemeanor

Under the Consumer Protection Act, committing an unfair or deceptive act is classified as a Class B Misdemeanor. This classification indicates that the act is considered a criminal offense, but it is less severe than a felony. Class B Misdemeanors generally carry penalties that may include fines and possible jail time, but the repercussions are not as severe as those associated with Class A Felonies, which are more serious offenses. This legal framework is designed to protect consumers from fraud and deception, ensuring fairness in consumer transactions. By categorizing these unfair practices as a Class B Misdemeanor, the law emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct in commercial transactions while still providing avenues for civil remedies and enforcement. The other classifications, such as Class A Felonies or Class C Misdemeanors, represent different levels of severity in criminal offenses, while civil liability refers to the civil consequence that can arise from unfair and deceptive acts, such as lawsuits for damages. The distinction of Class B Misdemeanor specifically highlights the serious nature of engaging in such deceptive practices under the law.