If you've hit a brick wall with a shady contractor, an unfair billing dispute, or a stubborn bureaucracy, you don't always have to accept it. In South Florida, many residents turn to investigative consumer segments like WSVN 7's Help Me Howard to amplify their voices and push for resolutions.
Knowing how the process works, what kind of cases the team accepts, and how to submit your details effectively can make the difference between getting ignored and getting results. Let's look at how the system operates and how you can prepare a compelling submission.
What Is Help Me Howard and How Does It Work?
Help Me Howard is a long-running consumer investigative segment hosted by attorney Howard Finkelstein and investigative reporter Patrick Fraser on WSVN 7News in Miami. The core premise is simple: everyday people facing complex legal or consumer disputes that they can't resolve on their own submit their stories. If the team takes the case, they investigate, contact the opposing party, and often use media exposure to spur action.
It's important to understand that the show isn't a court of law, nor is it free legal representation. Instead, it's a form of public advocacy and journalism. The power of the segment comes from public accountability. Companies, landlords, and government agencies often fix problems quickly when cameras and reporters start asking questions.
Criteria for Submitting a Case
The producers receive hundreds of inquiries every week, so they have to be selective. Understanding what makes a viable story saves you time and helps you frame your issue correctly.
- You've tried to fix it yourself: The team rarely steps in first. You must show that you've made genuine, documented attempts to resolve the dispute with the company, landlord, or agency.
- There is a clear injustice: The situation should involve a broken contract, unfair financial loss, or a clear failure of service where you are in the right.
- Documentation exists: He-said-she-said arguments rarely work. You need emails, receipts, contracts, photos, or official notices to back up your claims.
- It fits local jurisdiction: The dispute generally needs to affect residents within the South Florida viewing area covered by WSVN channel 7.
Step-by-Step Guide to Contacting the Show
When you're ready to submit your problem, you want to be concise, clear, and professional. Emotional rants rarely catch a producer's eye; cold, hard facts do.
First, gather all relevant paperwork. Organize your timeline of events, noting dates when calls were made or emails were sent.
Next, visit the official WSVN 7News Contact Page to find the specific submission portal or email designated for the Help Me Howard segment. When you write your summary, stick to these rules:
- State the core problem in the first sentence: For example, "A local roofing company took a deposit for repairs in January and has ghosted my calls ever since."
- Keep it brief: Producers are busy. Summarize the issue in a few short paragraphs.
- Provide contact details: Make sure your phone number and email are correct so producers can reach you if they choose to follow up.
What to Do While You Wait
Television newsrooms receive an overwhelming volume of tips, and the reality is that they can't investigate every single submission. While you're waiting to see if the team contacts you, don't let your other options sit idle.
Consider filing complaints with relevant consumer protection agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission or your state's attorney general office. If the dispute involves a licensed professional or contractor, filing a formal complaint with the state licensing board creates an official record that can add pressure. Small claims court is also a viable route for monetary disputes under your local financial limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Help Me Howard charge fees for investigating a case?
No, the investigative segment does not charge consumers for looking into or featuring their stories.
What kinds of cases get rejected immediately?
Disputes involving ongoing messy divorces, active criminal court cases, or situations where both parties share equal blame are typically turned down. The show looks for clear David-versus-Goliath scenarios.
How long does it take for the team to respond?
If the producers find your case compelling and decide to pursue it, you will usually hear back within a few days to a week. If you don't hear back, it generally means they aren't able to take on the story.
Can I remain anonymous if my story is broadcast?
Usually, no. The nature of investigative reporting requires identifying the parties involved, meaning your name and likeness will likely appear if the segment makes it to air.
