Protecting You Against Debt Collection Abuse
Harassing or abusive debt collection efforts violate the provisions outlined in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This act was enacted to protect consumers from various forms of harassment and other methods of debt collection that violate their rights. If you have received threats or are being sued by a debt collector, you need to seek an experienced attorney who can protect your consumer rights and stop unwanted collection efforts.
At Keogh Law, Ltd., in Chicago, Illinois, we represent clients who have been the victims of abusive and illegal debt collection efforts. Our commitment is focused on helping you understand your rights and what violations debt collectors have made against you. Although you may feel like you have no alternatives to pursue at the moment, we can help you determine the best course of action to fight debt collection harassment.
Types of Debt Collection Harassment
Many debt collectors and collection lawyers routinely violate the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. This is a Federal law which gives you certain rights and prohibits certain methods of attempting to collect debts. This may entitle you to recover up to $1,000. Typical violations include:
- Calling your cell phone if you did not provide that number.
- Informing 3 rd parties (extended family, neighbors, co-workers) of your debt.
- Adding unauthorized collection charges.
- Threatening to report a debtor to the Internal Revenue Service if payment is not forthcoming.
- Threatening criminal prosecution.
- Initial demand letters which insist on payment within less than 30 days or don't state the exact amount of the debt.
- Suing you in a different county then where you live or suing you for a credit card where you haven't used the card or made a payment on the account in more than 5 years from the date they filed the lawsuit (not from the date they served you.) If you are unsure when you used the account, you can order a free credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com.
Contact Our Firm Today
To schedule a free consultation with one of our consumer protection lawyers, please call 312-265-3258 or send us an e-mail now. We handle a majority of our cases on a contingency basis.