Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Indiana

attempt to collect

I recently received a letter from a

lawyer on behalf of a housemate of

nearly five years ago, attempting to

collect a debt of over $4,000. I have

no idea what this is about, and I

wrote back to tell them so. I asked

for documentation both that I owe it

and also of the amount. They

responded with a letter containing an

itemized list (cable bill $x, etc.). The

letter did not contain any copies of

bills or payments, signed contracts,

or any other verification. I don't

understand why a lawyer would take

a case without proof (unless

something has been forged), but this

really can make trouble for me. She

lives in Indiana and I live in New

Mexico, so even a court appearance

would be difficult. What are my

options? Also, this feels like either an

attempt to extort money from me

under threat of ruining my credit

rating, or like some sort of

harrassment. Is this something I

should pursue?

Thanks.


Asked on 4/12/08, 4:58 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Samuel Hasler Samuel Hasler

Re: attempt to collect

Yes, that is about all that is needed to verify a debt and you are correct about the need for a written contract. I suggest you find a local attorney doing consumer law work.

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Answered on 4/13/08, 10:44 pm


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