How To Find A Qualified Credit Lawyer
Understand What You Need
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act gives consumers the right to be treated fairly when dealing with debt collectors, but oftentimes, it takes a credit lawyer to get rouge debt collectors to understand that. The first criteria of your search should be that you need to find credit lawyers who understand the FDCPA and how it pertains to your particular case.
Look Online
Most fair debt lawyers have websites that outline everything they do for their clients, and oftentimes, that can be a great place to begin your search. Look for their practice areas, past successes that they've had representing people and their FDCPA rights, and any reviews that you can find about the fair debt attorney online. Make a list of the lawyers you'd like to interview, and then set up appointments with each one.
A Free Consultation
Out of control debt collectors can drive a person crazy, but not all of their antics will result in a successful court case. Before you hire an attorney, you should be able to present your case. After hearing the evidence, he or she should be able to make a determination whether or not you have enough evidence to make a realistic attempt in court. Take good notes for each lawyer that you interview, and then compare them all. Don't forget that personality matters-you'll want to work with an attorney who you trust and get along with. Remember, a credit lawyer who promises to take your case without first listening to the details may not be your best bet.
Good Advice
Fair debt lawyers who give advice to their clients on how to proceed with a debt collector are worth their weight in gold. For instance, they should inform you that once you hire an attorney, the debt collector won't be allowed to make direct contact with you anymore. They will only be able to communicate with you through your lawyer. The credit lawyer should also give you legal advice about how to move forward in your lawsuit against the debt collection agency.
Be Willing to Fight
A good credit lawyer will understand that, sometimes, suing a debt collector in court is the only way to get relief. Ideally, you should hire an attorney with experience in taking out of control debt collectors to court and winning, but if not, they should at least be willing to try. Remember, if you sue a debt collector and win, the judge could not only award you up to $1,000 in damages, but also order that the debt collection agency pay court costs and attorney fees.