Consumer Law
Violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
It is no secret debt collectors sometimes resort to persistent and overly aggressive tactics when attempting to collect outstanding debts. However, did you know that most of these tactics are also against the law? In both state and federal levels, laws and statutes recognize the devious methods debt collection agents and agencies utilize to scare debtors into handing over their hard-earned money.
To curb abusive debt collection practices the federal government passed the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) in 1978. The FDCPA actively prohibits debt collectors from using deceitful methods to collect outstanding debts. In fact, under this law the debt collector may actually have to pay $1,000.00 dollars for violating your rights!
Debt collection agencies use dirty tactics in an attempt to intimidate you into paying a debt you have very little means to pay. Not only is this unfair, but also unreasonable. Seldom do debt collectors take into account your current standard of living and the people that depend on you for roof and shelter. When a debt collector uses profane language, lies, and threats when speaking with you, they have broken the law and should be held accountable.
Are you currently being illegally harassed by a debt collection agency?
If a debt collection agent or agency has ever threatened you in any way, you have been the victim of debt collection abuse and you can file a lawsuit to protect your consumer rights and pursue compensation for damages.
Examples of illegal debt collection tactics include:
- Calling too early in the morning before or too late at night
- Telephone calls made from an auto-dialer
- Using profane language when attempting to collect
- Threatening you in any manner
- Not revealing their identity
- Suing on a time-barred debt
- Misrepresenting the debt in any way
- Contacting you when represented by an attorney
- Contacting third parties regarding your debt
Download an overview of your rights as a consumer (pdf format)