Being in debt is a scary and stressful thing, and the constant calling from debt collects can make the experience even more terrifying.  While it may seem like debt collectors can do whatever they want to collect, that is far from the truth.  In reality, they have very strict limits on what they can and cannot do.  Below are a few items that the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act expressly forbids debt collection companies and individuals from doing.

Restriction on Contact:  Debt collectors are not allowed to contact an individual before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM, unless specifically asked to, if they do not have permission, then they are breaking the law.  Additionally, if they contact a person at work, and they have been told not to, then they can be reported to the government.

Any Form of Threat is Illegal: Threats are illegal.  No matter how much is owed, collectors are not allowed to use threats of violence or harm, use profanity, repeatedly use the phone to bother a debtor, or claim that an arrest can happen if the debt is  not fulfilled.  Moreover, creditors cannot are threaten to seize, garnish, or sell property or wages to satisfy an outstanding balance.  The only way this can be accomplished is if there is a court order.

Falsify Information: When creditors claim to borrowers that they are an attorney or government representative, as that is against the rules from the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.  In addition, collection agencies cannot tell a debtor that they have commit a crime or claim that they operate or work for a credit reporting company.

Even with the best of credit on your side, the importance of a Fort Lauderdale Bankruptcy Attorney will remain clear.  Similarly, Foreclosure Defense Fort Lauderdale is vital to ensure your financial and legal rights are defended.