Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
Charleston Debt Relief Attorney Protecting Your Consumer Rights
The Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA) was enacted as a United States statute in 1978 as part of the Consumer Credit Protection Act. Under the FDCPA:
- Abusive practices in consumer debt collection are eliminated
- Fair debt collection is promoted
- Consumers are given ways to ensure that credit / debt information about them is accurate
In addition, guidelines are set forth pertaining to how creditors may conduct themselves in collecting debts. The rights of consumers are delineated, and remedies and penalties are described for those who violate this law.
You have certain rights and are protected by this act against abusive creditors. If you have received abusive treatment by a creditor in South Carolina, please contact the Charleston debt-relief lawyer at our firm who can advise you of your legal rights and help you initiate legal action against the unlawful creditor. Traywick Law Offices is passionate about protecting consumer rights.
Am I a Victim of Creditor Harassment?
Under the FDCPA, prohibited behavior by creditors or by debt collectors in collecting debts include:
- Contacting a consumer before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m. local time
- Causing a telephone to ring repeatedly with the intent to annoy, harass, or abuse
- Communicating with consumers where they work when this is known to be unacceptable
- Refusing to cease contacting a consumer when the consumer has requested this in writing
- Using misrepresentation or deceit
- Threatening arrest or legal action when this is prohibited or not really contemplated
- Using abusive or profane language
- Discussing the debt with third parties other than a spouse or an attorney
- Reporting false information on a consumer credit report (in violation of the Fair Credit Reporting Act) or threatening to do so
Consumers who have received abusive treatment per the FDCPA may file a lawsuit against the implicated creditor and seek damages including court costs and attorney fees. For more information about this or to take legal action against an abusive creditor, it is important to consult with our Charleston debt-relief attorney about the particulars of your situation.
For legal assistance with an abusive creditor in Charleston, contact the Charleston creditor harassment lawyer at Traywick Law Offices by dialing (843) 343-5092 today!