Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Debt & Collection law in the United States governs the ways in which creditors can collect debts from individuals or businesses. This area of law is designed to protect consumers from unfair practices while allowing creditors to pursue fair and reasonable collection efforts. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a key federal law that outlines what is considered appropriate conduct for debt collectors, setting boundaries against harassment, misrepresentation, and other abusive practices. Additionally, state laws may provide further consumer protections specific to their jurisdiction.
There are numerous situations where seeking legal assistance in the context of debt and collection can be beneficial:
Each state in the U.S. can adapt and enforce its own consumer protection laws, which may vary widely. While the FDCPA provides broad protections, state laws often offer additional safeguards:
Under the FDCPA, debt collectors can contact you for information and attempts to collect repayment. However, they are prohibited from harassment, false representation, and cannot call at inconvenient times or places.
No, you cannot be arrested for non-payment of debts like credit cards or medical bills. However, you can face a civil lawsuit which may result in a court order to fulfill the debt obligations.
Promptly consult a lawyer to review the lawsuit and provide guidance on how to respond. Ignoring a lawsuit can lead to a default judgment against you.
You can send a written request to the debt collector to cease contact. Once received, they can communicate only to inform you of specific actions being taken, like a lawsuit.
Yes, often creditors are open to negotiation, especially if you're unable to pay the full amount. A lawyer or professional negotiator can assist in reaching a fairer settlement.
A debt validation letter is a request from you to the debt collector to provide proof that you owe the debt. This is a right under the FDCPA to ensure the validity of the debt.
You can report violations to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), and potentially sue the collector within one year for damages.
Bankruptcy can discharge many types of debt, but it’s a complex process with long-term financial implications. Consulting with a bankruptcy attorney is advisable to understand your situation.
Paying off a debt may improve your credit score, but the timing and impact vary. The mark that the debt was previously delinquent may remain on your report for some time.
Certain incomes, such as Social Security benefits, disability, and unemployment insurance, are typically exempt from debt collection, although this can vary by state.
Consider the following resources for further assistance:
If you find yourself needing legal assistance in debt and collection matters, the following steps are recommended:
Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in United States through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Debt & Collection, experience, and client feedback.
Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.
Get a quote from top-rated law firms in United States — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
Refine your search by selecting a state.
