In a decisive move against alleged unethical lending practices, Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti has confirmed the state's involvement in a multistate lawsuit against Mariner Finance. The personal lending company is accused of exploiting consumers by slipping in unapproved and frequently concealed add-ons, burying them under an avalanche of extra fees and insurance costs. Tennessee is a latest state to address this issue, as part of a coalition that claims these hidden charges added up to a staggering $121.7 million for Mariner's customers in 2019 alone, according to an announcement made yesterday.
"My duty is to ensure that companies treat Tennessee consumers fairly and honestly," Skrmetti stated, calling the company's actions both "illegal and wrong." The lawsuit paints a grim picture of Mariner's business tactics, depicting a relentless financial predator that employs aggressive sales techniques to trap borrowers in a relentless cycle of debt. Mariner's website flaunts a presence of 34 branches spread across Tennessee, set against the backdrop of the ongoing legal battle.
The legal skirmish escalated on April 1, when the Court nodded its approval for Tennessee's request to intervene. This maneuver granted Tennessee the right to join the fray by filing a Second Amended Complaint, alongside a league of dissenting states that now include Illinois, Washington, and New York, among others.
Consumers convinced that they've been taken for a ride by Mariner's questionable practices have been urged to come forward. In pursuit for justice, victims can lodge a complaint with Tennessee's attorney general's office. The announcement highlighted by the Tennessee Attorney General's office offers a digital lifeline through which complaints can be submitted. For the full scoop on this legal counteroffensive, including details on how to engage in the action, visit Tennessee's official notice.
