Important Rights You Are Entitled to Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

No one ever wants to receive a call from a debt collector. Collectors are notorious for being unrelenting and sometimes using less-than-reputable practices. Fortunately, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act is meant to protect consumers from deceptive and abusive practices. Continue reading to learn about important rights to which you are entitled under the Act.

Right to be Free from Harassment

Debt collectors are prohibited from harassing you and making false statements. This includes everything from misrepresenting the amount you owe and falsely claiming that you have committed a crime to using threats of violence or harm and using profane language.

Right to Private Time

The Act prohibits debt collectors from calling you before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m., unless you agree otherwise. You can also stop debt collectors from contacting you by informing them in writing that you do not want them to contact you.

Right to Avoid Contact

The debt collector must contact your attorney rather than contacting you if the collector is aware of the fact that you are represented by legal counsel.

Right to Seek Recourse

Some debt collectors will push boundaries and violate the law that is meant to protect you. If this happens, you can sue the debt collector in state or federal court. You may be entitled to compensation for any damages you suffered due to the illegal collection practices. However, you only have one year from the date of the violation to file such a claim, so contact a debt relief attorney today if a creditor has violated the law.

At the Burr Law Office, we focus on providing affordable Milwaukee bankruptcy and debt relief services. We understand how stressful financial difficulties can be, and we will work with you to help relieve your stress and give you hope. To schedule a consultation, call our Milwaukee bankruptcy law office at (877) 891-1638.