Stop the Harassment. Know Your Rights.
What is Considered Illegal Debt Collection Harassment?
Prohibited Actions
- Calling before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
- Contacting you at work after you’ve told them to stop.
- Using threatening or obscene language.
- Lying about the amount you owe or their identity.
- Threatening you with arrest or legal action they cannot or do not intend to take.
- Discussing your debt with third parties like family, friends, or neighbors.
- Calling you repeatedly with the intent to annoy or harass.
How Hyslip Legal Fights Back For You
When you hire us, the harassment stops. We take immediate action to enforce your rights under the FDCPA.
Step 1: Cease & Desist
We send a formal letter to the debt collector demanding they cease all direct communication with you. From that point on, they have to talk to us, not you.
Step 2: Investigate & Document
We thoroughly investigate your case, documenting every illegal call, letter, and threat to build a strong foundation for legal action.
Step 3: Sue for Damages
We file a lawsuit against the debt collector. The FDCPA allows you to recover statutory damages of up to $1,000, plus any actual damages caused by the harassment.
What to Do When a Collector Crosses the Line
The most important thing you can do is document everything. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case will be.
Here are the steps we recommend.
- Do Not Engage: Do not argue with the collector. State clearly, “Do not call me again,” and hang up.
- Write Everything Down: After every call, log the date, time, the collector’s name, the company they represent, and what was said.
- Save All Communication: Keep every letter, email, and text message you receive from the collector.
- Contact an Attorney: Before you make any payments or agree to anything, speak with a consumer protection lawyer. Your consultation with us is always free.
Justice at No Cost to You
The FDCPA includes a fee-shifting provision, which is a powerful tool for consumers. This means that when we win your case, the debt collector who broke the law is legally required to pay our attorney’s fees and costs. This allows us to represent you with absolutely no out-of-pocket cost. You will never receive a bill from our firm.
Learn more about our commitment to protecting consumer rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Debt Collection Harassment
Generally, no. A collector can only contact others to find your location information, and they cannot reveal that you owe a debt. They are strictly forbidden from discussing your debt with third parties like family, friends, or coworkers.
You simply need to tell them, “You cannot call me at work.” You can do this verbally over the phone or in writing. Once you have done so, any further calls to your workplace are illegal.
It doesn’t matter. Even if the debt is valid, collectors are still required to follow the FDCPA. Your right to be treated with dignity is separate from your financial obligations.
The statute of limitations for the FDCPA is generally one year from the date of the violation. It’s critical to act quickly to preserve your rights.
