Do have any legal rights when a debt collection agency like Bass & Associates goes over the top by implementing overly aggressive debt collection tactics? Do you have to put up with verbal abuse and the threats issued by a third party debt collector?
Because of a landmark consumer protection law, the answer to the first question is yes and the answer to the second question is no.
On September 20, 1977, the United States Congress enacted a consumer protection law that is today considered the preeminent consumer bill of rights in the United States. Called the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the consumer protection law lists dozens of illegal debt collection tactics that include issuing threats and using abusive language.
The FDCPA also offers consumers the legal remedy to collect monetary damages for suffering from bill collector harassment. In addition to the federal FDCPA, many states have FDCPA laws on the book, some of which go beyond the legal protections granted by the federal FDCPA.
Hire an Attorney to Determine if a Claim Exists
You should not fight back against an aggressive debt collection agency on your won. By working with a licensed consumer protection lawyer, you will receive all the legal rights granted by the FDCPA. Your attorney will carefully analyze the evidence you present that demonstrates bill collector wrongdoing.
If there is enough proof of debt collection agency negligence, then your attorney might support the decision to file a claim against Bass & Associates. Moreover, the FDCPA permits consumers to send formal cease and desist notices, which your lawyer will know how to craft and send via certified mail.
FDCPA attorneys know every banned tactic that is within the FDCPA. A debt collection agency cannot contact friends and/or family members to explain the financial mess you have created.
Shame is a powerful motivator, and do not put it past an unethical third party debt collector to use shame in an attempt to get you to pay off a delinquent credit card or personal loan account.
Another common illegal tactic used by bill collectors involves trying to collect more money that what is owed on an account. You should also watch for a debt collection agency that tries to collect money form you on a credit card or personal loan balance that you have already paid off.
![Starting a Claim Against Bass & Associates*]()
Monetary Damages Available for Consumers
According to the FDCPA, third party debt collectors can be on the financial hook from violating one or more provisions of the federal law. The FDCPA gives consumers the right to file a claim for statutory damages up to $1,000, which covers every violation of the consumer protection law.
If you can prove physical and/or emotional distress was the direct result of FDCPA violations, you might be able to recover financial compensation in excess of $1,000. In addition, the FDCPA allows consumers to recover lost wages and the money garnished out of consumer paychecks.
Do not let Bass & Associates push you around. Speak with an experienced FDCPA attorney today to receive every right granted by the federal consumer protection law.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be constructed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Bass & Associates Inc. or any other third-party collection agency, you may not be entitled to any compensation.