If you have fallen behind on your bills, you understand the frustration associated with trying to climb out of a financial hole. However, frustration is the least of your worries when a debt collection agency like Rash Curtis & Associates contacts you about an outstanding credit card or personal loan account. Despite the passage of a monumental federal consumer protection law, far too many third party debt collectors use overly aggressive tactics that that create intense fear and anxiety for consumers.
About Rash Curtis & Associates
With more than 50 complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) over the past three years, it seems like Rash Curtis & Associates needs to improve how it collects delinquent consumer debts. However, the bill collector has received accreditation from the BBB because of the positive way the company responds to consumer complaints. The Vacaville, California debt collection agency, which has been in business since 1977, focuses its debt collection efforts on account receivables owed to local and statewide businesses.
What Does the FDCPA Mean by Misrepresentation?
Before September 20, 1977, consumers were at the legal mercy of third party debt collectors, many of which implemented harassing and intimidating debt collection tactics. To protect consumers against unethical bill collectors, the United States Congress passed the landmark Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). Referred to as the ultimate consumer Bill of Rights, the FDCPA bans a long list of debt collection practices that were considered legal for decades. According to the FDCPA, it is unlawful for Rash Curtis & Associates to threaten to seize your property, as well as threaten to contact a family member regarding your debt.
Congress also addressed more subtle debt collection practices, such as tricking consumers into paying off debts they already have paid off. Some debt collection agencies bank on consumer ignorance when it comes to knowing how much is owed on an outstanding credit card or personal loan account. Deception also comes in the form of lying to consumers about the status of their debt. Claiming to be in touch with a credit reporting agency is a clear violations of the FDCPA.
The FDCPA and Monetary Damages
Outlawing dozens of overly aggressive and more subtle debt collection tactics was not enough for the United States Congress. The federal governing body also included a punitive provision within the FDCPA that allows consumers to sue lawbreaking third party debt collectors. Facing the assertive practices used by a bill collector can lead to physical and/or emotional duress. The key is to link the physical and/or emotional symptoms to the illegal actions committed by Rash Curtis & Associates. To do this, you should speak with a licensed consumer protection attorney who has compiled an impressive record of winning FDCPA cases.
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Working with an FDCPA Lawyer
You FDCPA attorney will conduct a thorough review of your case to determine whether there is enough evidence to warrant filing a claim against Rash Curtis & Associates. If your legal representation feel there is not enough evidence, he or she can send the debt collection agency a formal cease and desist notice delivered by certified mail.
Schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced FDCPA lawyer.
Additional Reading
*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 Rash Curtis & Associates, or any other third-party collection agency, you may not be entitled to compensation.