California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL)
Summary
California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL), codified in Business and Professions Code § 17200 et seq., prohibits unlawful, unfair, or fraudulent business acts or practices. The law applies broadly to individuals and businesses operating in California and is designed to protect both consumers and competitors. It encompasses a wide range of conduct, including violations of other laws, deceptive advertising, and unethical business practices. The UCL allows for civil enforcement by public prosecutors and private parties, even in the absence of direct financial harm. It is frequently used in greenwashing cases where companies are accused of misleading consumers about the environmental impact of their products or operations. The goal of the UCL is to promote fair competition and safeguard the public from deceptive or harmful business conduct.
