Chicago Creditor Harassment Lawyer

Defend Yourself Against Abuse by Creditors

You do not have to put up with creditor harassment and debt collector abuse. You might have tried to negotiate with creditors or tried to be reasonable with them. If you have asked them to stop calling you and sending you letters, and they continue to threaten you, speak to you in a degrading manner or harass you, it's important you receive legal representation from our creditor harassment attorney in Chicago at Attorney Joseph P. Doyle. In some cases, they may use unlawful tactics against you, and you have the right to take legal action against the creditor or the collection agency that is targeting you!

Contact a Chicago Creditor Harassment Lawyer at Attorney Joseph P. Doyle! 
Call (312) 957-8077 or complete the online form for a free initial consultation.

Identifying Illegal Practices: What Counts as Creditor Harassment?

Collection harassment or creditor harassment is when the collector uses tactics that intimidate, abuse, bully, or coerce an individual into paying off their debt.

Below, are common examples of creditor harassment:

• Receiving multiple phone calls intended to annoy or abuse you
• Calling without informing you who they are
• Using obscene, offensive language in communication (conversation, email, texts, mail, etc.)
• Threatening you with violence
• Talking to your friends or neighbors about your debt

How Many Calls from a Debt Collector is Considered Harassment?

There is no specific number of calls that defines creditor harassment. The harassment comes in different forms and in some cases, creditors may use several illegal tactics in order to collect from you. As a consumer, you have rights through the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).

How to Stop Creditors From Harassing You

By talking to a debt collector harassment lawyer at our firm, you can find out what options you have in the face of creditor abuse or harassment. One of your options may be filing for bankruptcy. Although there are many myths about the consequences it could have on an individual and their family, there are many benefits to filing!

Filing for bankruptcy places an automatic stay on all debt collection actions, including legal action, lawsuits and all contact by creditors or debt collection agencies that are attempting to recover the money a debtor owes. Bankruptcy can also potentially stop foreclosure proceedings and give a debtor time to stop and think about his or her options. By filing for bankruptcy, you might be able to finally achieve the much-needed peace of mind you have been looking for.

Your Rights as a Consumer

Feeling overwhelmed by creditor harassment can be distressing, but it's important to remember that you have rights. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Our experienced team at Attorney Joseph P. Doyle is dedicated to educating you about these rights and ensuring they are upheld.

Here are some key rights every consumer should know:

• Protection Against Harassment: Debt collectors cannot use threats, intimidation, or abusive language. 
• Right to Dispute Debt: You have the right to request validation of the debt and dispute any inaccuracies.
• Limitations on Contact: Collectors must adhere to specific hours when contacting you and cannot call at inconvenient times.
• Privacy Rights: Your personal information must be kept confidential, and collectors cannot discuss your debt with unauthorized individuals.
• Right to Legal Representation: You can seek legal assistance to represent you in disputes with creditors.

Our team is here to help you navigate these laws and fight back against harassment. By understanding your rights, you can take control of your financial situation and work towards a stress-free future.

Your Rights Against Debt Collectors: Can You Sue for Harassment?

Yes, the FDCPA gives you the right to sue a debt collector for using abusive tactics to get you to pay off your debt. If they are found to have engaged in harassing behavior, you are entitled to $1,000 in damages, plus attorney fees.

How To Stop Collection Calls To Your Cell Phone

If you're receiving relentless collection calls on your cell phone, it's important to understand your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). This federal law prohibits debt collectors from engaging in abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices.

Here are steps you can take to stop these calls:

1. Understand the FDCPA: Familiarize yourself with this law to know your rights regarding debt collection practices.
2. Send a Cease and Desist Letter: Write to the debt collector clearly stating that you do not wish to be contacted by phone. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.
3. Consult with a Lawyer: If calls continue, seek advice from a debt collector harassment attorney specializing in consumer protection to assess if the FDCPA is being violated.
4. File a Complaint: Consider lodging a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) if the issue persists.
5. Pursue Legal Action: If necessary, discuss legal action with your attorney to ensure your rights are fully protected.

Remember, you have the right to control how and when debt collectors communicate with you, and legal assistance can be invaluable in ensuring your rights are upheld. Get in touch with Attorney Joseph P. Doyle as soon as possible.

Let a Creditor Harassment Attorney in Chicago Protect Your Rights

Creditor harassment after bankruptcy is illegal, and you don't have to put up with it. Make sure you have a competent bankruptcy attorney at your side to protect your rights.

Helpful Resources

• Illinois Division of Financial Institutions: File a Complaint
• Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) Collection Agency Licensing and Disciplinary Board Meeting Notices
• Upsolve: Illinois Debt Collection Laws

Free Consultation: Speak with Attorney Joseph P. Doyle Now. 
Our Chicago Creditor Harassment Lawyer is Ready to Defend Your Financial Rights!