Calls from Lang, Richert & Patch?

Lang, Richert & Patch: Debt Collection Defense & Settlement Strategies

If Lang, Richert & Patch has contacted you about a debt collection lawsuit, understanding your legal rights is crucial. This guide will cover how long collectors can pursue you and whether debt settlement or a charge-off is the better option.

📍 Contact Information for Lang, Richert & Patch

• Address: 5200 N Palm Ave Suite 401, Fresno, CA 93704
• Phone: (559) 228-6700
• BBB Profile: Lang, Richert & Patch BBB Page

📅 Statute of Limitations on Debt: How Long Can Collectors Pursue You?

Debt collectors cannot pursue debts indefinitely. Each state has a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for creditors to sue you for unpaid debts.

• Typical statute of limitations: Ranges from 3 to 10 years, depending on your state.
• What happens when the time expires? Collectors can no longer sue, but they may still try to collect.
• Restarting the clock: Making a partial payment or acknowledging the debt can reset the statute of limitations.
• Zombie debt: Some collectors try to revive expired debt—know your rights to avoid illegal tactics.

💡 Pro Tip: If a collector threatens legal action on an expired debt, they may be violating consumer protection laws. Learn how to fight a collection agency.

💰 Debt Settlement vs. Charge-Offs: What’s the Better Option?

When you can’t pay a debt, two potential outcomes are debt settlement or charge-off. Here’s what each means:

• Debt Settlement

  • Reduces what you owe – Creditors may accept less than the full balance.
  • Can hurt your credit score – A settled debt is marked as “settled for less than owed.”
  • May have tax consequences – The IRS might tax forgiven debt as income.

• Charge-Off

  • Creditor writes off your debt – This does not mean the debt disappears; it may be sold to collections.
  • Severely damages credit – A charge-off stays on your credit report for seven years.
  • Lawsuit risk – A charge-off doesn’t prevent legal action from collectors.

Which option is better?

• If you can negotiate a settlement, it’s often better than a charge-off.
• If you can’t pay anything, a charge-off may be inevitable—but you must watch for lawsuits.

Related Reading:

• Can a debt collector threaten to serve me with paperwork?
• Do collection agencies file lawsuits?

📞 Get Legal Help If Lang, Richert & Patch Is Contacting You

If you’re facing debt collection harassment or legal threats from Lang, Richert & Patch, you may have legal defenses available. Whether you need to negotiate a settlement or fight a lawsuit, Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC can help.

• Find out if a collector can still sue you: How many years can a debt collector come after you?
• Know your rights against aggressive collectors: Can a debt collector swear at me?

For expert legal advice, contact Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC for a free consultation at  this link.