You might have the right to sue the debt collector under certain circumstances. If you win, the judge can require the debt collector to pay you for any damages you can prove you suffered because of the illegal collection actions. The judge can also require the debt collector to pay you up to $1,000.00 even… Read more »
I was sued. I ignored the lawsuit and a default judgment was entered against me. Can a debt collector garnish my bank account or my paycheck?
If a judgment is entered against you, the debt collector can get a garnishment order against you, directing a third party, like your bank, to turn over funds from your account to pay the debt. Wage garnishment happens when your employer withholds part of paycheck to pay your debts. Your wages usually can be garnished… Read more »
What is a default judgment?
A default judgment is essentially a legal court ruling as to the amount that a person must pay the party bringing action against him or her. This legal court ruling is made without the consent of the person being sued, usually because he or she did not come to court in response to a court… Read more »
I think I might owe the debt I am being sued on, so should I just pay them the money or try to defend against the lawsuit?
It depends on the particular facts of your case. Keep in mind, though, that there are a lot of good reasons to at least consult with an attorney about defending against the lawsuit, and if it is a very old debt or a debt that you do not recognize, whether you should make any sort… Read more »
A debt collector is suing me, what should I do?
The most important things to do are (1) don’t panic; (2) don’t beat yourself up, it happens more times than you think and (3) don’t ignore altogether or put off dealing with the lawsuit. Either respond to the lawsuit personally, or through an attorney, as soon as possible and definitely by the date stated in… Read more »
Can a debt collector contact anyone else about your debt?
If you are represented by an attorney, then the debt collector must contact the attorney rather than you. If you don’t have an attorney, a debt collector may contact other people, but only for very limited purposes. In other words, the debt collector can contact other people only to find out your address, your home… Read more »
How can I stop a debt collector from contacting me?
If a collector contacts you about a debt and you don’t want the collector to contact you again, tell the collector – in writing – to stop contacting you. Here’s how to do that: Make a copy of your letter. Send the original by certified mail, and pay for a “return receipt” so you will be… Read more »
What types of debts are covered under the FDCPA?
The FDCPA covers personal, family and household debts, including money you owe on a personal credit card account, an auto loan, a medical bill or to your mortgage company. The FDCPA would not cover a debt you incurred running a business.