Skip to main content
(678) 915-2634 Contact Us
Atlanta residents, beware of deceptive debt collection tactics Atlanta, GA

Personal Attention & Experience Since 1971 Family-Owned, Family Focused

Client Reviews

Atlanta residents, beware of deceptive debt collection tactics

lawyer in a lawyers library

When Georgia residents are being harassed in any way by debt collectors, it is time to seek legal counsel from a reputable attorney. Many of the tactics that debt collectors use to try to collect debts are illegal. Debt collectors do not have the right to call people repeatedly, to use threatening or abusive language, or to lie about how much a person owes.

A group of debt collection firms have recently been fined $1 million for using abusive debt collection tactics. The companies used the name “National Attorney Service” while carrying out deceptive, illegal debt collection practices.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, the deceptive practices included the following:

  • National Attorney Service sent text messages to consumers, threatening to initiate lawsuits or garnish wages.
  • National Attorney Service contacted the family members and friends of debtors to make accusations about the debtors. 
  • The debt collectors made threats of arrest and imprisonment.
  • The collectors sent letters to consumers, addressed to their employers, with the subject of debt collection indicated on the envelopes.
  • The consortium represented itself as a law firm or legal company, though it was no such thing.

All of these tactics are illegal under federal law. Debt collectors cannot contact a consumer’s friends, family or employer about the consumer’s private financial business. Debt collectors also cannot legally harass consumers or pretend to be law firms.

In addition to the $1 million punishment, the consortium was ordered to stop going by any name that would indicate it is a law firm or legal service.

Georgia residents should not have to put up with the types of harassment and bullying mentioned here. People who are in debt do have rights, and legal options, and no company has the right to bully debtors. Consumers should contact debt relief attorneys in order to learn about their options and to put a stop to creditor and collector harassment. 

Source: Huffington Post, “Debt Collectors Using Terrible New Tactic Get Fined $1 Million,” Chris Kirkham, Sept. 26, 2013.

Posted on behalf of Jamie L. Gingold, PC

195 14th Street NE #1604
Atlanta, GA 30309

Phone: (678) 915-2634

Email:

First Free
Appointment




    DisclaimerPrivacy Policy

    I have read the Disclaimer and Privacy Policy

    Our Client Reviews

    Jamie L. Gingold, PC
    5.0 / 5.0

    Based on 28 reviews

    Jack L.

    They did an excellent job with my case. Jamie took the time to really listen and understand things. She delved into the details and was extremely knowledgeable and non judgmental. Very professional and they know what they are doing. Would definitely recommend!

    Karen B.

    Dear Mr Gingold, There are so many reasons to be thankful for all you have done and will do. Anyone who has ever had unfavorable experiences with an attorney or the legal system will feel the trepidation that I experienced once I realized that my situation seemed hopeless. It was by chance and happily good luck that I decided to put my future and sanity into your hands. I was mortified at having to deal with my debts by claiming bankruptcy. I remember in our first meeting how you assured me that I was not alone and should not feel ashamed. And, anyone in this position obviously does not have money to spare and you were clear about all the costs and allowing me to pay according to my own ability to do so. You advised me in all aspects of the law, but also, you were at each meeting incredibly supportive and complementary of my personal and professional plans. Anyone else in this situation should feel blessed to have access to your expertise and support.

    Lyla B.

    I thought the process of filing bankruptcy was going to be a difficult one. However, Gingold & Gingold treated me with respect and dignity from the moment I walked through their door. I had the pleasure of working with Jamie. She is very responsive, professional, and knowledgeable. She took the time and listened to my every concern and handled each and every one of them to my satisfaction. My experience with filing bankruptcy under Gingold & Gingold's representation exceeded my expectations in a major way. They gave me such a peace of mind. I am very pleased with my decision of going with Gingold & Gingold to represent me when I filed Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

    Julie T.

    Wow! I am finally out of debt and can say that I am debt free after completing my chapter 7 bankruptcy case with Gingold and Gingold. Mr dangled was very knowledgeable and direct with regard to my debt situation. there were no surprises and the case went as I was advised. The staff was also very helpful whenever I had a question. I will definitely recommend them in the future to my friends.

    Julie T.

    I contacted getting old and getting old regarding some old tax debt and credit card debt that I needed to address and had been putting off. miss Irving in the office was very very nice and put me at ease. I met with Jaime Gingold. She was very nice and explained the procedure to me and what would be left owing to the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Georgia after my case was done. My case has now been completed and I am on my way to a new start. Thank you Gingold and Gingold for all of your help.

    Anna T.

    Amazing! Outstanding!! They went over and beyond..I would recommend them to anyone needing a lawyer!!

    Write a review