My Debt Was Sold to a Bill Collector. Do I Have to Pay It?
If you are being harassed by a debt collection agency, you should not just assume that there is nothing you can do about it. Under Indiana law, bill collectors have the burden of proof to show a debt is valid and collectible. In many cases, they don't have the proper documentation to do that.
At the Law Office of Weiss & Schmidgall, P.C., in Merrillville, Indiana, we offer a free attorney consultation to discuss your options about debt collection defense. Our attorneys serve clients in Lake and Porter counties of Indiana, including those as far away as South Bend and Lafayette. We also work with clients in the East Chicago/Chicagoland area of Illinois.
Many Debts Are "Uncollectible"
It's quite common for creditors to sell your debt to a third-party debt collection agency at a discount. The debt collection agency will then attempt to collect the debt from you. Some of the most common types of debts that are sold to collection agencies include:
- Credit card bills
- Personal loans
- Auto loans
- Medical bills
All documents related to the debt must be properly filed and provided before the collection agency has the right to collect the debt from you. For example, under Indiana law, the bill collector must be able to produce a signed contract between you and the creditor. If they cannot produce a signed contract, they cannot collect the debt. In some cases, you can have the debt dismissed, with attorney fees awarded.
Even if the debt is valid and the debt collection agencies have all of the documentation they are required to have, you do not have to put up with harassment. Filing bankruptcy can discharge the debt and put an immediate end to creditor harassment.
Free, Confidential Attorney Consultation
Call 866-858-4901 or send us an e-mail to discuss your debt collection problems with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer. We offer flexible payment plans, and bankruptcy protection can begin with only $100 down to start your case. Day, evening and Saturday appointments are available.
We are a Debt Relief Agency, We Help People File For Bankruptcy Relief Under the Bankruptcy Code.
