Bankruptcy Offers Protection From Creditor Harassment

There are not many things that are worse than being harassed by credit collection agencies, especially if you are having problems dealing with debt. You may be getting many demand letters daily in the mail and receiving calls that interrupt you at work or during dinnertime with your family. In some cases, they may try to scare you into paying, using very mean language or threatening you with arrest. If this happens, it is important to realize that you do have rights, and that filing for bankruptcy is a good way to put an end to this problem.

Common Types of Creditor Harassment

When a person can’t keep up with credit card or loan payments, their account is usually given to a credit collection agency. These agencies try to get people to pay their past due bills. Unfortunately, they often go too far and end up harassing consumers.

Under laws enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), collection agencies are not allowed to harass, threaten, or intimidate the people they call. Common examples of this include:

• Using offensive or threatening words;
• Constantly calling or calling at odd hours;
• Threatening to call the police or have you arrested;
• Threatening to take property of yours that they can’t actually take;
• Calling friends or family members;
• Adding fees to the amount you owe.

How Filing For Bankruptcy Can Help

Filing for bankruptcy not only erases your debts, but it can put an abrupt stop to creditor harassment. Once your bankruptcy is filed with the court, something called an automatic stay goes into effect. This means that creditors and debt collection agencies are not allowed to call you, send you mail, or try to collect on your debt. If a creditor does contact you during your bankruptcy case, they are breaking the law and they could face fines or other legal punishments.

We Can Help You Today

If you are facing debts and are being harassed by credit collection agencies, contact the Law Office of Karen E. Evangelista, P.C. We provide the compassionate, experienced legal service you need to put an end to your financial problems. Our office serves Rochester and the surrounding areas; call or contact us online to request a free consultation today.