Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Maryland

Debt Collection

I was notified of a debt on 11-25-02. The collection agent has called me at work and is stating that unless I pay this immediatly, then it will be filed with small claims court. They are not allowing me sufficient time to attempt to pay the debt. Do I have any rights or is there a specific amount of time that is required after notification to be allowed to pay the debt?


Asked on 11/27/02, 11:13 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Worsham Michael C. Worsham, Esq.

Re: Debt Collection

They can file suit now to collect. However, if you can pay it back within a reasonable period of time and make this clearly known to the creditor, they will probably allow you to do this. However, they are not required to, and can file suit now.

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Answered on 11/27/02, 12:31 pm
G. Joseph Holthaus III Law Offices of G. Joseph Holthaus

Re: Debt Collection

Any acceleration on payment must be spelled out in the creditor agreement. Generally bills are due within a reasonable time after notice has been made. If interest is to apply then this must be indicated in the agreeemnt.

A creditor cannot contact your employer with harrassing collection tactics. Reasonable collection laws apply. If you are confronted with late bills, non-profit credit advising may be of benefit. If you feel you are swamped by bills, you may want to consider bankruptcy.

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Answered on 12/03/02, 11:42 pm


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