In a recent blog post about debt collectors preying on senior citizens, one method of collecting debts was revealed. This method involves finding someone with a similar name and going after them for the amount owed. Oftentimes, the person being contacted is not the person who owes money to the collection agency; however, sometimes people just pay these collection agencies out of fear that their credit will be adversely affected.
While the woman referred to in this post was not responsible for the debt being collected, the current state of the economy certainly has caused many people to fall behind in paying their debts. Collection agencies are working hard to collect these debts, which are purchased from creditors at a low price, in order for these agencies to make a hefty profit when payment is received.
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Although it is illegal, many who owe money are harassed by their collectors and can’t seem to find any relief. Illegal harassment includes, but it not limited to, verbal abuse, threats, repeated unwanted contact, calls to work and other family members, and using misleading tactics to collect debts. All of these activities stress out the debtor and place undue strain on someone who is already evidently having financial troubles.
How can individuals deal with this sort of behavior, within the confines of the law and their obligations? It is of paramount importance that you get in touch with an attorney who can assist you with getting your name cleared up so that you can move on with your life.
When dealing with a debt collector you feel is harassing you, you must stay calm. This is extremely important. If you say something under duress, the collector my try to use it against you later. Try to make arrangements, and if you have sought legal counsel, refer the collectors to that individual. By no means should you be contacted if you have legal representation. Ask the collector to stop calling you, and have your attorney write a formal letter asking the same thing. This paper trail will help end these unwanted calls.
Being in debt is tough, and unethical collection practices must be nipped in the bud. Be proactive and get help before you fall too far behind. Contact an attorney and get the appropriate counsel to find your most reasonable course of action if you find yourself in this situation.
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This post was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of the best criminal justice programs. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24 at gmail dot com.
-I’d like to thank Kelly for both reading and contributing to this blog.
