Law Offices of Norman M. Finkelstein, APC: Understanding Wage Garnishment and Debt Collection Letters
If Law Offices of Norman M. Finkelstein, APC has contacted you regarding a debt, it’s important to act quickly. Many consumers face aggressive collection tactics, including wage garnishment and collection letters that may contain misleading information. Understanding your legal rights can help you respond effectively.
💰 Wage Garnishment: What It Means and How to Stop It
Wage garnishment allows debt collectors to take a portion of your paycheck after winning a lawsuit against you. However, you have options to challenge or limit garnishment.
⚖️ Know Your Rights – Federal and state laws protect a portion of your wages from garnishment. Some income, such as Social Security, is exempt from collection.
📑 Verify the Debt First – Before garnishment begins, you have the right to receive a court summons and a judgment. If you were not properly notified, you may have grounds to challenge it. Learn what to do if you missed a court summons.
🛑 File an Exemption or Appeal – If garnishment creates extreme financial hardship, you can file a claim of exemption to reduce or stop it.
💼 Negotiate a Settlement – Some creditors may accept a lump sum payment or installment plan to avoid garnishment altogether. See how to fight a collection agency.
📩 Responding to Debt Collection Letters Effectively
Debt collection letters can be intimidating, but don’t panic. Not all letters are legally enforceable, and some may contain misleading information.
🔍 Request Debt Validation – Collectors must prove you owe the debt. You have 30 days to request written validation before they continue collection efforts.
❌ Watch for False Threats – Some letters falsely claim legal action is imminent to pressure you into paying. Can debt collectors send a fake summons?
✉️ Respond in Writing – Always reply in writing to create a paper trail. Keep copies of all correspondence.
🚨 Know When to Report a Collector – If a collector violates your rights, file a complaint with the CFPB, your state’s attorney general, or a consumer rights attorney. Learn if collectors can threaten to serve paperwork.
📍 Contact Information for Law Offices of Norman M. Finkelstein, APC
📍 Address: 8502 E. Chapman Ave., Suite 353, Orange, CA 92869
📞 Phone: (714) 282-2428
🔎 BBB Profile
📢 Take Action Against Unfair Debt Collection Practices
If you’re facing wage garnishment or misleading collection letters, take control of the situation. Consumer Rights Law Firm PLLC is here to help. Call 877-700-5790 or contact us online for a free consultation today.