There is a famous Latin proverb, Melius tarde, quam nunquam, which means "Better late than never."

That proverb doesn't really apply in the case of California Verizon Wireless subscribers - instead it would have to read, "If you're late you'll pay $5."

Currently, we're investigating whether Verizon Wireless has violated California law in the questionable way the company charges its late fees.

This may seem like a normal late fee penalty, but in this case, the issue is not whether Verizon can or cannot charge late fees. The point is that by California law the fees need to be based on the actual amount owed or liquidated damages caused by the late payment.

Under the current scheme, a Verizon customer who is five days late with a $40 basic plan is charged the same late fee as a customer paying 25 days late on a $250 plan.

We believe Verizon is operating and charging customers based on a huge imbalance. It's comparable to being charged the same ticket price for coach and first class seating. It just doesn't make sense.

We're now looking for Verizon customers living in California who've been charged and paid one late fee in the past four years. You can contact the firm by clicking here, e-mailing [email protected] or calling (206) 623-7292.