Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Missouri

Disputing a Debt

I recieved notice that I owed money for a phone bill that has almost reached the SOL, I had my attorney send them a fax disputing the validity of said debt, and now recieved a letter

that does not even acknowledge that they received it.

Basically that I have chosen to ignore them. Aren't they required by law to send me verifcation of the debt? And if they don't, do they have to cease and desist attempts at collections?


Asked on 4/25/05, 10:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Anthony DeWitt Bartimus, Frickleton Robertson & Gorny, PC

Re: Disputing a Debt

Be very careful here.

There is a certain category of collector now that buys up old debts at or near the statute of limitations for pennies on the dollar and then uses abusive collection tactics to recover money. When you buy a $6,000 debt for $25 anything you recover over the $25 is pure profit.

By law if they cannot verify the debt they cannot continue to try to collect the debt. More importantly, if you sent them a letter that told them to deal with your attorney, and they have again contacted you, that also violates the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

You would be well advised to go to www.ftc.gov and look for their FAQ on the Fair Debt Collection Practice Act. That provides good information that you will find helpful.

Good luck.

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Answered on 4/26/05, 9:16 am


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