Dealing with Aggressive Debt Collectors? Here’s How to Get Relief
Debt Collection Harassment is Illegal – You Have Rights
Being hounded by aggressive debt collectors can feel like a nightmare; with constant calls, letters, and threats leaving you feeling stressed and overwhelmed. But it’s crucial to understand that you have rights under the law – and there are steps you can take to make the harassment stop.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve helped countless clients fight back against abusive debt collection practices. Our top-rated federal lawyers are experts in consumer protection laws like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). We’ll make the calls stop and go after any collector who has violated your rights for monetary damages.So if those collection calls and letters are making your life miserable, know that you don’t have to take it. We’re here to be your voice and put an end to the harassment once and for all.
What Qualifies as Debt Collection Harassment?
Debt collectors have one job – to try to make you pay up. But there are strict laws governing how far they can go in their efforts. Certain tactics cross the line into harassment and abuse, which is illegal under the FDCPA. Some common examples include:
-- Calling you before 8am or after 9pm
- Using profane, obscene or abusive language
- Calling you repeatedly with the intent to annoy or harass
- Threatening violence or harm against you
- Lying about the amount you owe or implications of not paying
- Discussing your debt with others without your consent
- Continuing to call you at work after being asked to stop
If a debt collector has engaged in any of these practices, they’ve likely violated federal law – and you may be owed compensation. The <a href=”https://www.reddit.com/r/ConsumerProtection/”>reddit consumer protection community</a> has many examples of people dealing with this kind of harassment.
How to Stop Debt Collection Harassment
The first step is to send the debt collector a debt validation letter demanding they prove you actually owe the debt. This often gets unscrupulous collectors to back off, at least temporarily.You should also send them a cease and desist letter telling them to stop all further contact with you. At this point, they can only reach out to confirm they will no longer be contacting you.If the harassment continues after taking these steps, it’s time to consult with an experienced debt collection defense lawyer. They can send a strongly worded letter demanding the collector stop all abusive practices – and threatening legal action if they don’t comply.
You May Be Owed Money for FDCPA Violations
In addition to stopping the harassment, you could be entitled to actual and statutory damages if the debt collector violated the FDCPA. Federal law allows you to recover up to $1,000 for illegal collection practices, plus any actual damages you incurred like lost wages, medical bills, etc.So not only can a lawyer make those annoying calls stop – they can also potentially get you compensated for the abuse you’ve suffered. At Spodek Law Group, we’ve won millions for clients whose rights were violated by unscrupulous debt collectors.
Statute of Limitations on Debt Collection
It’s also important to understand the statute of limitations for collecting on different types of debts. These laws vary by state, but generally:
-- Credit card debt is 3-6 years
- Medical debt is 3-8 years
- Utility bills are 2-4 years
- Taxes are 10 years federally, 3-6 years for state
If a collector is going after debt that is past the statute of limitations, you may be able to get it dismissed entirely. But trying to navigate these complex laws on your own is extremely difficult.A qualified debt collection lawyer will know all the ins and outs of your state’s statute of limitations – and can use it to your advantage to resolve your debt issues once and for all.
Debt Collection Lawsuits – How We Can Help
If a debt collector has already sued you over an unpaid debt, you need to take it extremely seriously and respond properly. Failing to do so could result in a default judgment being entered against you.At Spodek Law Group, we routinely defend clients against these lawsuits and have gotten countless cases dismissed or settled for pennies on the dollar. We’ll analyze all aspects of the case, including:
- Proving the debt is yours
- Ensuring it’s within the statute of limitations
- Checking if the plaintiff is the real creditor
- Verifying they have followed all legal requirements
We’ll also look for any violations of the FDCPA that we can use to potentially countersue the collector for money damages. And if the case does go to trial, our skilled litigators will fight tooth and nail to protect your rights.
Bankruptcy to Eliminate Debt Collector Harassment
For clients dealing with overwhelming debt from multiple creditors, bankruptcy may be the best solution to get debt collectors off your back permanently. Both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy include an automatic stay that immediately stops all collection efforts.If you’re struggling with insurmountable debt, our bankruptcy lawyers can guide you through the process and get you on the path to a fresh financial start. We’ll ensure your rights are protected and that you receive a full debt discharge if eligible.
Get a Free Consultation Today
At Spodek Law Group, we believe no one should have to endure illegal debt collection harassment and abuse. Our top-rated New York litigation lawyers have over 50 years of combined experience taking on even the biggest debt collectors.If you’re being hounded by aggressive debt collectors and want to make it stop, call 212-210-1851 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll listen to your situation, explain all your legal options, and outline a strategy to get you permanent relief.Don’t let debt collectors make your life miserable a day longer. The Spodek Law Group is here to be your voice and fight to protect your consumer rights. Reach out today and let our family help yours.
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