When you owe a debt, it can feel embarrassing and overwhelming to pay it off. However, matters can worsen when you start receiving communication from a debt collector. While these calls can be frustrating, they can turn intense when you are harassed by the collector. If you’re experiencing abuse from a debt collector over an amount you owe, it’s in your best interest to connect with a San Diego County debt collection harassment lawyer as soon as possible. They can help protect your rights as a consumer during these challenging times.
What Is Collector Harassment?
When you owe a debt, it’s not uncommon for the original creditor to send your debt to collections. Often this entails selling your debt to an agency that specializes in collecting the owed funds. However, there are strict regulations in place for how these third-party entities can interact with consumers, as outlined in the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCA). As such, the following behavior constitutes collector harassment:
- Using vulgar or profane language
- Contacting you outside of regulated hours (before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.)
- Repeatedly calling you in a short period
- Threatening violence or harm
- Failing to identify themselves as a debt collector
- Pretending to be a lawyer or member of law enforcement
- Speaking to anyone but you or your attorney about the debt
- Threatening to sue you if they have no intention to do so
If you are experiencing harassment, you must know the police cannot assist you. Instead, you must contact an attorney for these matters. The only time the police can help is if the collector has attempted violence against you or your family.
What Should I Do if I’m a Victim?
It’s necessary to understand that, as a consumer, you are offered protection under the FDCPA. Not only does this rule over third-party collection efforts, but it also enacts penalties for collectors who violate these agreements. Generally, if you can prove the violations, you are entitled to up to $1,000 per violation in statutory damages. Additionally, you may be able to collect other damages if you can prove the collector’s harassment was the cause.
Fighting for damages can be overwhelming and complex. As such, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced consumer protection attorney. Not only can having legal representation help reduce the anxiety and stress you feel surrounding these matters, but it also increases your chance of receiving a favorable outcome. This is because your attorney is familiar with how to file the necessary documents and fight on your behalf.
When you are the victim of abuse at the hands of a collector, the team at Barthel Legal can guide you through these challenging times. We understand how frustrating these matters can be, which is why we are dedicated to fighting for you. Contact us today to learn more about this process and how we can fight for your rights.
