AASP/NJ creates Legal Defense Fund to aid member shops battling litigation

The Legal Defense Fund is designed exclusively for AASP/NJ members in good standing, and is offered at the discretion of AASP/NJ's Board of Directors if such legal proceedings stand to result in favorable industry decisions, or will in some way positively affect or advance the automotive repair industry. "Due to the current state of the industry and the lack of enforcement of the current rules, it has become obvious that the only way to resolve certain issues is to get a ruling from a court of law," states AASP/NJ Executive Director Charles Bryant. Financial assistance would go towards expenses including, but not limited to, legal fees, reports, transcripts and costs resulting from the legal process. Contributions to the Legal Defense Fund are needed in order for AASP/NJ to be able to adequately provide qualifying members for financial aid in their legal efforts. One-time or monthly contributions are accepted. "[The Fund] is there to support the ones who are going into battle, so to speak, and standing up for what is right," explains AASP/NJ President Jerry McNee. "It's not just for the purpose of the individual but for the industry as a whole. Unless one is willing to get up and step to the front line and take the expense on full force, [contributing to the Fund] is another way; they can sit back, be anonymous and help support the guys who truly need it." "Based on the foregoing, every member of AASP/NJ should make an effort to support the Legal Defense Fund whenever possible, not only for the benefit of the person taking on the issue, but for the benefit of the entire industry," adds Bryant. To learn more about AASP/NJ's Legal Defense Fund or to see if you quality for assistance, contact AASP/NJ Executive Director Charles Bryant at (732) 922-8909 or email [email protected]. For more information on AASP/NJ, please visit aaspnj.org.