"Collections" is the process by which creditors try to get nonpaying debtors to pay the money they owe. There are a huge number of laws in South San Francisco, California governing the tactics that collection agencies can and cannot do.

What if I Am Owed Money in South San Francisco, California?

If somebody owes you money and is declining to pay, you have various options at your disposal. However, in doing so, you will be governed by very specific consumer protection rules that govern the collection of debts. Violating these rules can hurt your chances at effectively collecting, and might even expose you to civil liability.

For example, it should go without mentioning that creditors are not allowed to use threatened or actual violence when attempting to collect. They are also not permitted to use abusive language to the debtor, or contact a third party about the debt.

One thing you are allowed to do is send a written demand for immediate payment. The demand should lay out the precise amount you believe is owed, so the debtor cannot plausibly claim ignorance of that fact. If a lot of money is involved, it might be wise to hire a South San Francisco, California collections agency. If you go this route, it is necessary to make sure that you hire an agency that is trustworthy, and follows the relevant law to the letter.

What if Someone Is Trying to Collect Money Against Me in South San Francisco, California?

If you truly owe the money that is being sought, and can afford to pay it, you should do so. If the collection caller is behaving in a polite manner, you should try to do the same. In any case, the worst thing you can do is ignore the issue hoping that it will go away. It won't.

Fortunately, you have some options in South San Francisco, California. First of all, you should attempt to contact the creditor directly, and see if something can be worked out. If this doesn't work, you can demand that the collection agency stop contacting you by phone. When this happens, they are not permitted to contact you further. This, of course, doesn't make the debt go away, but if the calls are becoming unbearable, it might buy you a little bit of time. Usually, when this happens, the creditor gives up on extra-judicial collections, and files a lawsuit against the debtor.

If you have retained the services of a South San Francisco, California attorney, they may advise that you declare bankruptcy, depending on your specific situation. In any case, you shouldn't consider bankruptcy before weighing other options, and discussing the matter with an attorney.

How Can a South San Francisco, California Collections Attorney Help?

If you think that a collection agency is engaging in unlawful tactics, you should call a local South San Francisco, California attorney, as you might have a claim for damages against the creditor or the collection agency.

Also, if you are considering bankruptcy as an option, a seasoned California attorney can help guide you through the process.