Dealing with debt can be stressful, and illegal debt collection practices can make it even more challenging. If you have been the victim of illegal debt collection practices, it is important to take the proper actions to protect your rights and seek the legal recourse that you deserve. For assistance with your case, contact a debt collection lawyer today.
Harassment
Debt collectors are not allowed to harass, oppress, or abuse you or anyone else they contact. This includes using threats of violence, obscene language, or repeatedly calling to annoy you. If a debt collector engages in any form of harassment, they are violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), and you have the right to take legal action to protect yourself.
Calling At Inconvenient Times
Collectors cannot call you at unreasonable hours, such as before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., unless you have given them permission to do so. If a debt collector is calling you outside of these times, it’s illegal, and you have the right to report them.
Contacting You At Work After Being Asked To Stop
If you tell a debt collector that you are not allowed to receive calls at work, they must stop contacting you there. Continuing to do so after being informed of your workplace policy is against the law.
Ignoring Cease Communication Requests
You have the right to tell a debt collector to stop contacting you. Once you make this request in writing, they must cease communication, except to inform you of any specific actions they are taking. Ignoring this request is a violation of your rights.
Failing To Provide Written Validation
Within five days of their first contact with you, debt collectors must send you a written notice detailing the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor, and your right to dispute the debt. If they fail to provide this validation notice, they are not complying with the law.
Threatening Arrest Or Legal Action Without Basis
It is illegal for debt collectors to threaten you with arrest or legal action unless they genuinely intend to take such action and it is legally permissible. Threatening jail time for unpaid debts is usually a scare tactic and not based on legal reality.
Disclosing Debt Information To Third Parties
Debt collectors are not allowed to discuss your debt with anyone other than you, your spouse, or your attorney. They cannot contact your friends, family, or employer about your debt, except to find out where you live, your phone number, and where you work. Attorneys such as our friends at Resolve Law Group recommend seeking professional representation if your information has been disclosed to third parties or your rights have been otherwise violated.
Contact A Debt Collection Attorney Today
By understanding your rights and the common illegal tactics used by debt collectors, you can protect yourself from harassment and abuse. By contacting an experienced attorney, you can defend your rights and take action to prevent illegal debt collection practices.