Most people are constantly on their phones. But if you’ve experienced harassment from third-party collection agencies, you’ve probably come to avoid looking at your phone.
Most third-party collection agencies like Professional Debt Mediation behave scrupulously. But some engage in aggressive behavior that can intimidate and distress consumers.
This is illegal, but you have options for recourse.
Know Your Rights
Part of what makes harassment from third-party collectors so insidious is the fact that it discourages consumers from advocating from themselves.
This is why legal knowledge is so empowering to consumers and so dangerous for third-party collectors who behave badly.
One of the most powerful tools for consumers is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law that protects all U.S. citizens from third-party collectors’ harassment.
This harassment can come in many forms, including:
- Using profane language in communications
- Threatening to garnish your wages
- Discussing your debt with any unauthorized parties
- Publishing your name on a “bad debt” list
If any of this behavior sounds familiar, contact an FDCPA attorney as soon as possible so that you can get the harassment to stop.
The most effective way of doing this is filing a claim against the company.
![Going to court against Professional Debt Mediation]()
Going to Court With Professional Debt Mediation
Once you have an attorney, you’ll most likely file a claim. After that, Professional Debt Mediation will receive a notice that has two parts: the complaint and the summons.
The complaint explains why the company is being called to court, and the summons will tell the company when to appear.
The company will be taking the responsibility to appear very seriously, and so should you. Do whatever it takes to get to court on time that day.
If it helps, remind yourself that even if you have an outstanding debt, you cannot go to jail for simply falling behind on your bills.
Moreover, if you have an attorney by your side, it’ll be much easier to walk in with confidence.
How to Prepare
Part of the reason that you’ll be able to walk in with confidence is the fact that an attorney can help you prepare.
For example, your attorney can help you anticipate what questions the other side’s lawyer will ask. This will allow you to respond with confidence and hold your head a bit higher in court– all of which will leave a positive impression in court.
Your attorney will also help with the process of gathering evidence, though you can start doing this on your own. Check the FDCPA again and examine your interactions with Professional Debt Mediation.
If any interactions seem to fall under actions that are prohibited by the FDCPA, take note of them and gather the appropriate supporting evidence.
For example, if a collector used profane language on the phone, see if you have a recording of that interaction.
Every bit of evidence and insight helps, and your attorney can use this evidence to his or her advantage.
Find an Attorney
As you can see, an attorney is indispensable in this process. If you choose to file a claim against Professional Debt Mediation, make the choice to use an attorney as well.
It’ll improve your chances of a positive outcome which can likely include financial compensation, and give you the opportunity to regain your peace of mind.
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Professional Debt Mediation or any other third-party collection agency, you may not be entitled to any compensation.