Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorney
Protecting Yourself Using The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal consumer law enacted to protect individuals from having to endure abuse and harassment from a debt collection agency or a creditor. The faltering economy over the last few years has left many individuals at a distinct financial disadvantage. Many individuals are struggling just to keep food on the table and a roof over their family's heads. During these lean economic t imes, lack of available income can result in mounting debt and unpaid bills. With so much to worry about already, you should not have to suffer the indignity of having an abusive collection agent calling you and making the situation even more unbearable. At the Mathews Law Firm, one of our highly qualified Los Angeles bankruptcy attorneys will be able to defend you against this abusive behavior.
Bankruptcy Lawyer Serving Clients in Los Angeles
One of the key tools our firm employs to combat creditor harassment is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The FDCPA restricts creditors and collectors from using abusive techniques to intimidate or trick you into making payments on your debts. While it is entirely legal for a creditor to pursue the repayment of an owed debt, he or she must follow the guidelines set out in the FDCPA or risk serious repercussions. Should your creditor fail to honor the laws set forth in this act, legal action should and must be taken. Some common illegal collection violations include:
- Excessively calling throughout the day
- Contacting you before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
- Using obscene or overly aggressively language
- Calling your work after you or your employer has asked the collector to stop
- Talking to a family member, friend, neighbor, co-worker, or boss about your debt
- Threatening the use of violence
- Implying that you have committed a crime
- Falsely implicating a connection to the police, court, or any other government agency
- Unfounded threats to take legal action
If you have suffered any of the abuses listed above, it is absolutely essential that you discuss your case with our attorney. There are legal actions that can be taken against abusing creditors, and you could be paid compensation if you have been victimized.
Contact a Los Angeles bankruptcy attorney to learn more about how the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act can help you.