When you’re in debt, the constant phone calls and letters can keep you up at night. However, when those calls escalate to debt collectors knocking on your door, you may begin panicking. It’s essential to understand the legality of this practice and when it becomes harassment, as you have rights as a consumer. Understanding how a California debt collection harassment attorney can help you when this escalates is crucial. Keep reading to learn more.
Is It Legal for Debt Collectors to Come to My Home?
Though a knock on your door from a stranger looking to collect debt may seem illegal, it is entirely legal for a debt collector to show up at your home. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) establishes standards that protect consumer rights by dictating what debt collectors can and cannot do.
There is no law stating that a debt collector cannot show up on your property. However, there are standards that a collector must follow if they are on your property. For example, they can only be there between the hours of 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. and they cannot enter your home without your consent.
What Can I Do if They Are on My Property?
If there is a debt collector on your property, you do not need to speak to them. Just because you owe a debt, you do not have to initiate a conversation with a debt collector. You can ask them to leave, but again, you do not have to open the door. Should you decide to speak with them, be sure to verify their identity before discussing any financial information. Debt collectors cannot lie to you about their identity.
When a debt collector is on your property and breaks any rules set by the FDCPA by knocking on your door outside the designated hours, using aggressive practices, verbally abusing you, or trying to enter your home, you should contact the police as this is illegal. You should also contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Can an Attorney Help Me?
If you are being harassed by a debt collector using unfair practices, you need to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Despite owning debt, you have rights and protections as a consumer. A lawyer can help protect you from the unfair and scary debt collection practices that collectors use to intimidate debtors.
When you’re facing unfair and scary treatment, from a collector, Loker Law is here to help. We understand how jarring the pounding on your door can be, and we will do everything in our power to help protect your rights as a consumer. Contact our law firm today to learn how we can help you with a debt collection defense.
