Timeshare Exit Firms Should Disclose Attorney Representation Clearly, Says Gordon Newton

Mesa, Ariz. – Timeshare exit firms that market attorneys, legal services, or legal representation should be required to clearly disclose who the attorney represents and whether the consumer will actually have an attorney-client relationship. This call comes from Gordon Newton, founder and CEO of Newton Group, following industry scrutiny.

Newton's statement follows his recent appearance in a Newsweek article that examined the challenges consumers can face when attempting to exit a timeshare. The article highlighted potential pitfalls related to the legal assistance advertised by these companies.

Newton emphasized that disclosures should be simple enough for consumers to understand before paying substantial fees. He questioned the clarity of terms like "attorney-backed" or "legal oversight," stating they don't necessarily confirm personal representation by an attorney. "Attorney involvement is not the same as attorney representation," Newton said.

Newton proposes that before consumers sign agreements or pay fees, timeshare exit companies should clearly reveal: who the attorney represents (the consumer, the exit company, or another party), whether every consumer receives personal legal representation, when the attorney-client relationship begins, and if it starts automatically or only when the exit company deems it necessary. He argued consumers shouldn't have to piece together information from various sources to understand this.

Newton concluded by stating that experience creates options, but legal representation creates accountability. "A salesperson can make a promise. A lawyer who represents you owes duties directly to you. Consumers deserve to know which one they are getting," he said.