Stopping Harassment by Debt Collectors in Chicago

Chicago’s Premier Consumer Protection Attorneys

Debt buyers purchase debts from other companies and then try to collect the money themselves. Just because a debt buyer claims they are owed money from you in court or in a letter does not mean they are entitled to anything. Many of the debts they purchase are undocumented, beyond the statute of limitations, or legally invalid.

If you have received court papers or other notices from a debt buyer, the experienced debt collection attorneys at Edelman Combs Latturner & Goodwin, LLC encourage you to seek representation from our firm. With us on your side, you can find relief from debt collector harassment.

Know Your Rights & Steps to Take

If you are being contacted or sued by a debt buyer, it is important for you to understand your rights as a consumer and the steps to take after receiving a collection letter. You may have a valid defense to the claim — or you may have a claim against the debt buyer. If you contact us early enough, we may even be able to get the case dismissed.

The debt buyer must be able to provide you with a copy of an assignment of the debt that specifically includes the debtor’s:

• Name
• Address
• Account number

Do not delay and do not ignore the summons or court date. If you do not appear in court, the court may enter a judgment against you and the creditor may attempt to collect from your wages or assets such as your bank accounts. You should also avoid making any payments on the debt prior to obtaining legal advice. Making even a small payment may be an admission or revive the statute of limitations on an old debt, which would otherwise be uncollectible.

How To Stop Collection Calls To Your Cell Phone

Putting your phone on “silent” sounds like a solution, but ignoring debt collection calls will actually make things worse and may lead to wage garnishment, court judgment, and even negative impacts on your credit score and credit report.

Federal regulation allows you to stop collection calls if you request it in writing. You are free to manage your debt on your own terms while minimizing disruptive calls from collectors.

Tips to stop collection calls:

• Lead the conversation -  Confirm and write down their name, the company, the original creditor, the original debt amount and current amount, as well as the account number and contact information. You should also note the time and dates of the calls. Be sure to ask what you can do to verify or dispute the debt. Asking these questions will help you identify any scammers. 
• We recommend getting in touch with a Chicago debt collection lawyer at Edelman Combs Latturner & Goodwin, LLC for advice. The next time the collector calls, you may tell them that you have an attorney and provide their contact information. Otherwise, if the collector is simply calling at an inconvenient time, let them know, or if you are in the process of disputing the debt, inform them.
• Create a cease and desist letter and send it to the collection agency via certified mail with a return receipt request. After it is received by the collector, they must contact you to confirm. If they do not follow your request, you may file a complaint.

Count on Edelman Combs Latturner & Goodwin, LLC

The Chicago debt collection attorneys of ECLG are passionate about helping individuals who have been hurt by debt collection companies. If you have been the victim of harassment or deceitful actions by a debt collector, let us help you fight back. We are on your side.