When you are in debt, it can be incredibly overwhelming. Not only do you have to worry about your credit score hindering your ability to move forward in life, but you may also be inundated with collection calls. These can add more stress to your life, especially when they are of a harassing nature. If you are receiving non-stop phone calls in regard to your debt, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do to make them stop. The following blog explores what your options are if this reflects your circumstances and why it’s in your best interest to connect with a Los Angeles, California debt defense lawyer with Los Angeles Legal Solutions.
What Are Collection Calls?
When you owe a debt, the person you owe can take a number of steps to obtain the funds they owe. One such measure is calling the debtor. Unfortunately, however, debt collectors can be notoriously aggressive, with collection agencies more harsh than an original creditor. It’s imperative to understand that there are many measures in place to help protect you from harassment from those collecting a det. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) dictates behaviors third-party debt collectors can and cannot engage in when interacting with consumers. As such, the following are examples of FDCPA violations regarding telephone communication:
- Calling before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m.
- Placing a number of phone calls in a short period of time
- Calling the consumer while they are at work after they have been told they cannot take personal calls on the job
- Failing to identify themselves as a debt collector at the start of the conversation
- Impersonating a police officer or lawyer
- Calling repeatedly with the intent to annoy
- Threatening violence or jail time
Is There Any Way to Get These to Stop?
Being the victim of harassment from a debt collector can be incredibly upsetting. However, there are steps you can take to alleviate the constant, unwanted phone calls. The first thing you can do in these matters is send a cease and desist letter. This informs the collection agency responsible for placing the phone calls that you would like them to stop. If you send this letter, consider sending it through certified mail. This ensures you will get a receipt that the agency received the letter, which can help prove they violated FDCPA laws if they continue to call.
When you’re the victim of harassment, it’s imperative to document all instances of FDCPA violations, as you may be entitled to statutory damages as a result.
If you plan on sending a cease and desist or want to pursue compensation for the violations you’ve been subjected to, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney who can help you through these matters. At Los Angeles Legal Solutions, our firm will do everything possible to help you fight for justice during these matters. Contact us today to learn more.
