When you interact with a debt collection agency, you expect the employee representing the company to treat you with respect. However, some third party debt collectors define respect by how much money they can get consumers to pay on outstanding credit card and personal loan accounts. Overly aggressive debt collection tactics receive much of the attention from our political leaders, but more subtle debt collection practices such as misrepresentation are also effective ways to motivate consumers into paying off debts.
Fortunately, a federal consumer protection law enacted by the United States Congress outlaws both deceptive and overly aggressive debt collection tactics. Referred to as the consumer Bill of Rights, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) prohibits third party debt collectors from harassing consumers by making repeated phone calls throughout the day. The historically significant federal consumer protection law also makes it illegal for bill collectors to misrepresent themselves.
About Vital Recovery Services
Not every debt collection agency fails to comply with the FDCPA. In fact, there are several companies that have received accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). One such company is Vital Recovery Services, which has earned accreditation from the BBB since 2002. The company has compiled just 42 consumer complaints since then, with the BBB rewarding Vital Recovery Services for its commitment to handling consumer complaints in a timely manner. The Berkeley Lake, Georgia company has also earned the highest rating of A+ from the BBB.
![Did Vital Recovery Services Misrepresent Themselves?*]()
What Constitutes Misrepresentation?
The FDCPA makes it clear about what constitutes misrepresentation. A debt collection agency cannot try to trick you into paying more on an outstanding debt that you actually owe. For example, a company might send you a letter claiming you owe $1,200 on a delinquent credit card balance. However, you records show your outstanding balance is only $575. To protect your financial interest, it is strongly recommended that you save and organize every document pertaining to your consumer debt. A third party debt collector might also try to collect a debt that you already paid off. Once again, documentation is the key to thwart the misrepresentation coming from a bill collector.
Take Action by Filing a Claim
Under the FDCPA, consumer are allowed to sue law breaking debt collection agencies in a civil court. The best way to ensure you receive just compensation for having to deal with deceptive debt collection tactics is to work with a licensed consumer protection lawyer who specializes in handling FDCPA cases. Your FDCPA attorney might discover enough quality evidence to warrant the filing of a lawsuit. Federal law permits you to file a claim seeking statutory damages and actual damages.
Why it is Important to Work with an FDCPA Lawyer
If you decide to file a claim against Vital Recovery Services, you can bet the company will come to court with a team of accomplished defense lawyers. Counteracting the legal expertise involves hiring a licensed FDCPA attorney who knows exactly how to litigate cases in front of a civil court judge. Working with an experienced FDCPA lawyer will help you fight back against a law breaking bill collector.
Schedule a free initial consultation with an FDCPA attorney to determine the most effective course of legal action.
Additional Resources
*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 Vital Recovery Services, or any other third-party collection agency, you may not be entitled to compensation.