Index | NCLC Digital Library

ABBREVIATIONS: debt collector codes, 2.4.5, Appx. G
ABUSE OF PROCESS: examples in collection context, 15.6.3.4; malicious prosecution distinguished, 15.6.1, 15.6.3.1; process, defined, 15.6.3.2; SLAPP laws, 15.1.3.3; tort actions, 15.6.3; elements of claim, 15.6.3.1; ulterior purpose, 15.6.3.3
ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT: see also DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES; actions re, see FDCPA ACTIONS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; bankruptcy situations, 2.2, 13.3, 13.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.3; CFPB standards, 16.3.7; check collectors, 1.3.5.2.5; community education, 2.10; complaints re, 1.2; administrative agencies, 2.10; CFPB, 1.2, 1.3.1.2; consumer protection agencies, 2.3.5; FTC, 1.3.1.2; judicial, see FDCPA ACTIONS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; creditor responsibility, 1.3.3, 2.8; debt buyers, 1.3.4; decedent’s debts, 3.3.4.4.1.6, 5.8; demand letters, 2.4.7.6; evidence, gathering, 2.4.1, 2.4.5, 7.2.8; FDCPA prohibitions, Ch. 6; government officials, 14.11; industry overview, 1.3; injunctive relief, 2.10, 16.7; legal representation, see LEGAL REPRESENTATION; RICO claims, 14.5; skip tracers, 1.3.7, 1.5; state law restrictions, 16.2.4.3; state or local officials, 14.11; state remedies, see STATE REMEDIES; stopping without litigation or bankruptcy, 2.3; demand letters, 2.4.7.6; right to stop communications, 5.10; susceptible consumer standard, 6.1; tape recording, 2.4.1, 2.4.9.3; tax collection, private collectors, 14.10; telephone harassment, see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; tort remedies, see TORT CLAIMS; unreasonable conduct, 15.2.4, 15.3.1; vicarious liability, 2.8; written requests to stop, 2.3.2, 2.3.7, 5.10
ACA INTERNATIONAL: professional liability insurance, 2.7
ACCUSATIONS: see FALSE ACCUSATIONS
ACH: see AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE (ACH) NETWORK
ACTIONS: see also LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; abusive practices, see FDCPA ACTIONS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; appeals, see APPEALS; bankruptcy discharge violations, 13.2.6, 13.7.2; bankruptcy forum, 13.5; bankruptcy stay violations, 13.2.4, 13.7.2; civil rights, see CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIONS; class actions, see CLASS ACTIONS; credit repair laws; CROA, 14.9.1, 14.9.5; state law, 16.4.4; debt collection, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; debt harassment, see FDCPA ACTIONS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; discriminatory collection tactics, 14.8; FDCPA, see FDCPA ACTIONS; offers of judgment, 2.4.13; RICO, see RICO ACTIONS; state law, see STATE REMEDIES; tax collection abuses, 14.10; TCPA violations, 14.3.2.1, 14.3.2.6; tort, see TORT REMEDIES; UDAP, see UDAP REMEDIES; unordered merchandise, 14.2
ACTIONS ON THE DEBT: see also DEBT COLLECTION; arbitration alternative, see MANDATORY ARBITRATION; attorney fee recovery; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.6.4; false representations, 7.4.3.3; bankruptcy stay, 13.7.4; compulsory counterclaims, 12.5.2; counterclaim to FDCPA action, 12.7; deceptive practices, 7.4, 7.2.12.4, 16.2.4.4.3; defenses, see DEFENSES; false representations, 7.4; false threats, 3.2.7.6.2, 3.2.7.6.3, 7.2.10, 16.2.4.4.3; time-barred suits, 7.2.12.2; FDCPA application, 4.6.4, 4.6.7, 4.6.8, 7.2.12.4; communications to consumer’s attorney, 4.6.6; FDCPA issues, 3.2.7; litigation immunity, 12.5.6; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6; long-arm jurisdiction, 12.1; mass filing, 7.6.4; settlement of FDCPA claims, 2.5.2.3; state court lawsuits, 1.4.9; statute of limitations, 7.2.12.3.2; threatening during verification period, 9.3.7.3; time-barred suits, 7.2.12.3; validity of debt, determining, 2.1.3; venue, 3.2.7.2, 10.3; verification notices, requirement, 4.6.4, 3.2.7.4, 3.2.7.5; verification of the debt, 9.4.4; verification rights, failure to exercise not admission, 9.5; witness immunity, 12.5.6; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6
ACTUAL DAMAGES: see DAMAGES, ACTUAL
ADDRESSES: creditors, requesting, 9.4; debtors, see LOCATION INFORMATION; return addresses, unfair practices, Appx. E.2.5.5
ADJUSTMENT BUREAUS: see CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENCIES: federal agencies, see FEDERAL AGENCIES; state agencies, see STATE AGENCIES
ADMINISTRATORS: see TRUSTEES
ADVERSE PARTY RULE: attorneys, protection, 15.8
ADVERTISEMENTS: debts for sale, FDCPA restrictions, 6.5
AFFILIATES: see CORPORATE AFFILIATES
AGENCY: creditors and collectors, relationship, 2.8
AGENTS: FDCPA violations, liability, 2.8, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2, 4.2.3.3
AGREEMENTS: see CREDIT AGREEMENTS; WORKOUT AGREEMENTS
ALIASES: see also FALSE NAMES; debt collectors, use by, 6.7.3, 7.13, 7.17
ALIMONY: see CHILD SUPPORT
ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE MECHANISMS (ADR): see MANDATORY ARBITRATION
AMERICAN COLLECTOR’S ASSOCIATION (ACA): see ACA INTERNATIONAL
ANSWERING MACHINES: see VOICEMAIL MESSAGES; TELEPHONE CALLS
ANTI-TRUST LAWS: debt collection, application, 14.12
APPEALS: evaluating appealing adverse decisions, 2.11; FDCPA actions; attorney fee awards, 11.9.10; attorney fees for, 11.9.6.2.4
ARBITRATION: see MANDATORY ARBITRATION CLAUSES
ARREST: see also FALSE ARREST OR IMPRISONMENT; deceptive threats, 7.7
ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES: prior express consent to, 14.3.2.4.2; revocation of consent, 14.3.2.4.4; who may give consent, 14.3.2.4.3; federal regulation, 14.3.2.1; exceptions, 14.3.2.4, 14.3.2.5; scope, 14.3.2.2; state regulation, 16.8.5; wrong numbers, 14.3.2.6
ASSAULT: see also CRIMINAL CONDUCT; VIOLENCE; abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.1
ASSIGNEES: see also DEBT BUYERS; SALE OF DEBTS; FDCPA application, 4.1, 4.2.2, 4.3.9, 4.3.10
ASSIGNMENT OF DEBTS: see DEBT BUYERS; SALE OF DEBTS
ASSOCIATION OF CREDIT AND COLLECTION PROFESSIONALS: see ACA INTERNATIONAL
ATTACHMENT: see also GARNISHMENT; SEIZURE AND SALE; deceptive threats, 7.7; excessive, 15.6.3; exempt property, see EXEMPT PROPERTY
ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS: see also ATTORNEYS; bankruptcy actions, 13.2.6; collection as unauthorized practice of law, 16.5.1; collection suits; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.6.4; false representations, 7.4.3.3; class actions, common fund approach, 11.9.5; FDCPA actions, 11.9; accurate records, keeping, 2.9; allowable hours, 11.9.6.2; appealing award, 11.9.10; appellate work, 11.9.6.2.4; calculation, 11.9.6; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.3; class actions, 11.9.5, 11.9.9; costs, 11.9.7, 12.8.4, Appx. E.3.3.4; defendant, awards to, 2.12, 12.8.1, 12.8.4; fee applications, 11.9.6.2.4, 11.9.9; hourly rate, 11.9.6.3; jury trial, 2.5.6; mandatory award, 11.9.2; multiplying proceedings, 12.8.3; negotiating, 11.9.3.2; nonprofit legal aid offices, 2.4.3, 11.9.6.3; offers of judgment, 2.4.13.4; postjudgment, 11.9.6.2.4; prejudgment interest, 11.9.8; prevailing consumer, 11.9.1, 11.9.6.2.3; retainer agreements, 2.9; right to, 11.9.2, 11.9.3.1, 11.9.4; rule 11 sanctions, 12.8.2; settlement, 11.9.3; supplemental awards, 11.9.6.2.4; tax liability, 2.1.4; injunctions, 2.10; lodestar approach, 11.9.6; offsets, 11.9.4; outstanding receivables; credit reporting, 14.6.6.3; FDCPA application, 4.4.2.2; unethical collection, 16.5.4; ownership of award, 11.9.4; sample documents, Appx. F; sanctions; multiplying proceedings, 12.8.3; rule 11, 12.8.2; setoffs, 11.9.4; state law actions, 16.2.5.2.4; survey evidence, recovery of costs, 2.4.14.2; tax liability, 2.1.4; written fee agreement, 11.9.4
ATTORNEYS: see also LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; PRACTICE OF LAW; collection attorneys, see COLLECTION ATTORNEYS; collection by, 1.4.8; communications to, FDCPA application, 4.6.6; continuing education, 1.1.3; CROA, application, 14.9.2; eviction attorneys, FDCPA application, 4.2.6.5; fees, see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; foreclosure attorneys, see FORECLOSURE LAW FIRMS; impersonation, 7.6, Appx. E.2.4.4; letterhead as deceptive threat, 7.2.10.3; practice aids, see PRACTICE AIDS; representation of debtor, effect, 2.3.7, 5.4, 5.8; sanctions; multiplying proceedings, 12.8.3; rule 11, 12.8.2; specialization in fair debt collection law, 1.3.2; developing a plaintiffs’ practice, 2.1.6; NACA membership, 2.4.7.6; training and conferences, 1.1.3; tort actions against, 15.8; unethical practices, 3.2.7.6; debt collection for others, 16.5.3; debt collection for self, 16.5.4; pro se defendants, 3.2.7.6.6; remedies, 16.5.5.2; tape recording of conversations, 2.4.1, 2.4.9.3; tort actions, 15.8
AUTODIALER SYSTEMS: see AUTOMATED DIALING SYSTEMS
AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE (ACH) NETWORK: electronic transactions, rules, 14.7.2; NSF fees, collection via, 14.7.4
AUTOMATED DIALING SYSTEMS: definition,14.3.2.3; predictive dialers, 14.3.2.3; preview dialing, 14.3.2.3; prior express consent to calls, 14.3.2.4.2; revocation of consent, 14.3.2.4.4; who may give consent, 14.3.2.4.3; state law, 16.8.5; TCPA prohibitions, 14.3.2.1; exceptions, 14.3.2.4, 14.3.2.5; scope, 14.3.2.2; technological changes, 1.5; wrong numbers, 14.3.2.6
AUTOMATIC NUMBER IDENTIFICATION (ANI): toll-free number subscribers, 14.3.3.4
AUTOMATIC PAYMENT PLANS: see ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFERS
AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENTS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.3
BAD CHECKS: see also POSTDATED CHECKS; collections, see CHECK COLLECTORS; criminal prosecution, threatening, 15.6.2, 15.6.3; dishonored list, publication, 5.6.5, 6.4; FDCPA, application, 4.3.12, 4.4.2.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.1.3; NSF fees, electronic collection, 14.7.4; re-presentment, 14.7.5; unauthorized charges, collecting, 8.4
BAD FAITH: see also MALICE; credit reporting agencies, actions against, necessity, 15.5; defamation, necessity, 15.5; FDCPA claims; attorney fee awards, 12.8.1; rule 11 sanctions, 12.8.2; invasion of privacy claims, necessity, 15.3.1; prosecutions, see MALICIOUS PROSECUTION; punitive damages, 2.6.1
BANK ACCOUNTS: see also BANKS; electronic fund transfers, see ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFERS; exemption from seizure, notice to collector, 2.3.3; garnishment, see GARNISHMENT; remotely created checks, see REMOTELY CREATED CHECKS (RCCs)
BANKRUPTCY: advantages and disadvantages, 13.2.3; adversary proceedings, 13.5; arbitration clauses, 13.3.3; automatic stay of debt collection, 13.2.4; violation of stay, 13.2.4, 13.7.2; basics, 13.2; chapter 7, 13.2.1; chapter 13, 13.2.2; considerations, 13.2.3, 13.2.5; debt collectors, preservation of insurer’s liability, 2.7; debt harassment, stopping without resorting to, 2.3; discharge of debts, 13.2.6; violation of discharge, 13.2.6, 13.7.2; exemptions, 13.2.5; fair debt collection claims and, 2.2, 13.3, 13.4.2; application, 4.6.8; attorney fees, 13.6; claims arising after, 13.4.2; claims arising before, 13.3; claims arising during, 13.4.1; claims relating to, 13.7; collateral estoppel, 12.5.2; defense, as, 12.5.1; jurisdiction,11.2.1; litigating, 13.5; preemption, 13.7.4; raising, 12.5.1, 13.3; jurisdictional issues, Appx. E.3.7.5; liquidations, 13.2.1; overview, 13.2; proof of claim, 13.7.3; inflated claims, 13.7.3.2; overview of process, 13.7.3.1; property of the estate, 13.2.5; reorganizations, 13.2.2; state collection statutes, preemption, 13.7.4, 16.1.2; violations of Code, 13.7; discharge violations, 13.2.6, 13.7.2; stay violations, 13.2.4, 13.7.2; voluntary repayments, 13.2.1, 13.2.6
BANKS: see also BANK ACCOUNTS; FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS; credit cards, see CREDIT CARDS; FDCPA, application, 4.3.1; debt collector status, 4.2.3.4; harassment complaints against, 2.3.5; national banks, see NATIONAL BANKS; state collection laws, application, 16.1.2, 16.2.3.3.8
BATTERY: see also VIOLENCE; abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.1
BILLING ERRORS: see also ERRORS; correction, written requests for, 2.3.6; TILA protections, 14.4.2
BONA FIDE ERROR DEFENSE: see also DEFENSES; amount owing, mistakes, 7.4.3.1; bona fide, 12.2.5; clerical mistakes, 12.2.4; factual mistakes, 12.2.4; mistakes of law; FDCPA interpretation, 12.2.2; state or other federal law, 12.2.3; overview, 12.2.1; reasonable procedures, 12.2.8; reasonable reliance on creditor’s information, 12.2.6; state law, 16.2.5.3; unintentional, 12.2.7
BOUNCED CHECKS: see BAD CHECKS
BURDEN OF PROOF: see also EVIDENCE; arbitration agreement, 2.4.8.3; attorney fee applications, 11.9.9; defendant debt collector, by, 12.8.1; bona fide error defense, 12.2.1; consumer debt, 4.4.2.1; defamation, 15.5.6; jurisdiction, 11.2.2.1; TCPA exceptions, 14.3.2.5; verification notice, failure to provide, 9.3.5
BUSINESS DEBTS: FDCPA, application, 4.1, 4.3.11, 4.4.2, Appx. E.1.1.6.2; state collection statutes, application, 16.2.3.1.3; UDAP statutes, application, 16.3.3.3, 16.3.3.5
BUYERS OF DEBT: see DEBT BUYERS
CALLER ID TELEPHONE SERVICES: see also TELEPHONE CALLS; accuracy of information, 14.3.3.1; ANI services, 14.3.3.4; blocking, 14.3.3.4; fake or misleading IDs, 1.5, 2.4.1, 14.3.3.2; meaningful disclosure, 14.3.3.3; privacy issues, 1.5, 14.3.3.4; spoofing, 14.3.3.2; toll-free numbers, 14.3.3.4; Truth in Caller ID Act, 14.3.3.2
CAMPGROUND MEMBERSHIPS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2
CANCELLATION OF DEBT: see also DEBT SETTLEMENT; tax consequences, 1.4.3; IRS Form 1099-C, 1.4.3
CASE LAW: see also STATE LAW; fair debt collection; developments, 3.4.3; online resources, 1.1.1.3, 3.4.3; summaries, Appx. E
CEASE COMMUNICATION: see STOP CONTACT
CELLULAR PHONES: see also TELEPHONE CALLS; CAN SPAM Act, 14.3.4; causing expenses by concealing purpose, 8.6; e-mail messages, 14.3.4; harassing calls, 1.5, 14.3.2; see also TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; inconvenient time or place, 5.3.7; TCPA restrictions, 5.3.7, 14.3.2; autodialed or prerecorded calls, 14.3.2.1; exceptions, 14.3.2.4; scope of restrictions, 14.3.2.2; text messages, see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES
CHARGE-OFFS: tax implications, 1.4.3
CHARGES: see COLLECTION FEES
CHECK COLLECTORS: see also BAD CHECKS; FDCPA, application, 4.1, 4.2.3.4, 4.3.10.5; operating in name of district attorney, see CHECK DIVERSION PROGRAMS; overview, 1.3.5.2.5
CHECK DIVERSION PROGRAMS: see also CHECK COLLECTORS; operating in name of district attorney, 1.3.5.2.5; FDCPA exemption, 3.4.2.4, 4.3.12, Appx. E.1.1.3.3, Appx. E.1.2.2.8
CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES: see also BAD CHECKS; FDCPA, application, 4.2.3.4, 4.3.10.5, Appx. E.1.2.2.5
CHECKLISTS: see PRACTICE AIDS
CHECKS: see BAD CHECKS; CHECK COLLECTORS; CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES; POSTDATED CHECKS
CHILD SUPPORT: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.3; case summaries, Appx. E.1.1.5.2.2; state debt collection statutes, application, 16.2.3.3.5
CHILDREN: see also THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS; collection contact, 5.6.3; leaving messages, 5.6.6; FDCPA application, 4.5
CIVIL ACTIONS: see ACTIONS
CIVIL CONSPIRACY: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.5
CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIONS: see also CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES; abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 14.11, 15.7.8; discriminatory or bad faith collection tactics, 14.8; state action, 14.11.2
CLAIMS: see ACTIONS; LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
CLASS ACTIONS: see also FDCPA ACTIONS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; adequacy of representation, 11.7.2.2.5; arbitrations, 2.4.8.13; attorney fee awards; common fund approach, 11.9.5; court approval, 11.9.9; bankruptcy discharge violations, 13.2.6; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.2; class certification requirements, 11.7.2; commonality, 11.7.2.2.3; cy pres awards,11.7.2.3.4; damages, 11.3.2.2, 11.7.3; actual damages, 11.7.2.3.5; statutory damages, 11.7.3; declaratory relief, 11.3.2.3, 11.7.2.3.3, 11.8.1; defense tactics, 11.7.4; counterclaims, 11.7.4.3; offers of judgment, 11.7.4.2; merits, request to consider first, 11.7.4.4; FDCPA violations, 11.3.2.2, 11.3.2.3; generally, 11.7.1; harassment actions, considerations, 2.4.7.5; increasing recoveries, 11.7.3.3; injunctive relief, 2.10, 11.3.2.3, 11.7.2.3.3, 16.7; manageability, 11.7.2.3.4; numerosity, 11.7.2.2.2; offers of judgment, 11.7.4.2; practical considerations, 11.7.1; predominance, 11.7.2.3.4; rule 23 requirements, 11.7.2; rule 23(a), 11.7.2.2; rule 23(b), 11.7.2.3; settlement, 11.7.5; offers of settlement, 11.7.4.2; superiority, 11.7.2.3.4; supplemental state claims, 11.7.3.3; typicality, 11.7.2.2.4; UDAP class actions, 16.3.8; unauthorized practice of law, 16.5.5
CODED LISTS: publication, 6.4.3
CODES: debt collectors, 2.4.5, Appx. G
COERCION: see THREATS
COLLATERAL: see SECURITY INTERESTS
COLLATERAL ESTOPPEL: FDCPA claims, 12.5.2
COLLECTION ACTIONS: see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT
COLLECTION AGENCIES: see also DEBT COLLECTORS; DEBT COLLECTION; abusive practices, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; attorney relationships, 3.2.7.6.5; auto dialer systems, 1.5; caller ID services, use, 1.5; check diversion programs, 1.3.5.2.5, 4.3.12, Appx. E.1.2.2.8; collection contacts, see COLLECTION CONTACTS; consumer reporting agencies; reporting to, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; status as, 14.6.5; contingent fee agencies, 1.3.5.2.3; credit bureau, restriction on use of term, 1.3.8, 1.4.2, 2.5.7, 7.19, 14.6.6.1, Appx. E.2.4.6; credit reports, obtaining and use, 14.6.3; debt purchases by, 1.3.4; deceptive conduct, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; direct liability, 4.2.3.3; employees; FDCPA actions, joinder as party, 11.3.4.5; FDCPA application, 4.3.1; FDCPA violations, liability, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2, 11.3.4.1; torts, liability, 15.9; use of aliases, 6.7.3; wrongs by, liability, 2.8; FCRA, application, 14.6; FDCPA application, 4.1, 4.2.3.4; debt collector status, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.1; FDCPA compliance, creditor responsibility, 1.3.3, 2.8; FDCPA liability, 2.8, 4.2.3; FDCPA violations, see FDCPA VIOLATIONS; fees, see COLLECTION FEES; first-party collection, 1.3.5.1, 1.4.5; flat-rating, 10.4.1, 10.4.2; FTC frequent complaints, 1.3.1.2; independent contractor or agent, 2.8; large agencies, see MAJOR DEBT COLLECTORS; licensing; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.5; FDCPA application, 7.8.4; state law, 16.2.1, 16.2.4.5; unlicensed collection, 7.8.5, 16.2.4.5; lists of debtors, publication, 6.4, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.6.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; officers, liability, 11.3.4.1; overseeing by creditors, 1.3.3; overview, 1.3.5.2.3; owners, vicarious liability; FDCPA, 4.2.3.3, 11.3.4.2; tort claims, 15.9; reasonable procedures, 12.2.8; specialized agencies, 1.3.5.2.3; state law, application, 16.2.3.3; tax collections, 14.10; third-party collection, 1.3.5.2, 1.4.6; true name, use, 7.17; unauthorized practice of law by, 16.5.2; remedies, 16.5.5; unfair or unconscionable practices, see UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES; vicarious liability, 2.8, 4.2.3.3
COLLECTION ATTORNEYS: see also ATTORNEYS; abusive conduct, 14.4.1; agency relationship to creditor, 2.8; arbitration clauses, enforcement, 2.4.8.5; conferences, 1.1.3; deceptive practices, 3.2.7.6, 7.6, 7.12, 10.4.3; false threats, 3.2.7.6, 7.2.11; FDCPA application, 4.2.8, 4.6.6, 4.6.8, 3.2.7.1, 10.3.2; debt collector status, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.1, 4.3.7, Appx. E.1.2.2.1; FDCPA liability, 4.2.3.2, 4.2.3.3; FDCPA suits against, 11.3.4.1, 11.3.4.3; fees, false representations, 7.4.3.3; flat-rating, see FLAT-RATING; form letters, 7.6, 7.12, 10.4.3; immunity, 12.5.6, Appx. E.3.6.6; involvement in process, 1.3.6, 7.6, 10.4.3; lawsuit threats, 3.2.7.6, 6.1, 7.2.11; litigation activities, 4.6.4, 4.6.8, 3.2.7, 12.5.6, 16.1.3; mass filing of lawsuits, 7.6.4; negligence, liability, 15.8; overview, 1.3.6; pitfalls to avoid, 3.2.7.5; privilege, 12.5.6, 15.1.3.1, 16.1.3, Appx. E.3.6.6; “regularly collects,” 4.2.8.4; relationship with collection agency, 3.2.7.6.5, 7.6.1; review of file, 7.6.2, 7.6.3, 7.12, 10.4.3; self-represented persons, dealing with, 3.2.7.6.6; state collection laws, application, 16.2.3.3.3; UDAP application, 16.3.3.4; unethical activities, 3.2.7.5, 3.2.7.6, 7.6, 16.5.3; remedies, 16.5.5.2; tort actions, 15.8; unique issues, 3.2.7; written requests to stop dunning, 2.3.2, 2.3.7; wrongdoing, creditor liability, 2.8
COLLECTION CALLS: see TELEPHONE CALLS
COLLECTION CONTACTS: see also COLLECTION LETTERS; abusive, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; attorneys, 7.6; bankruptcy filing, after, 13.2.4; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.2; charges for, FDCPA restrictions, 8.6; chronology of contacts, 2.4.4; deceptive, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; definition, 4.6.4, 5.6.7, 5.7; disclosure requirements, 5.6.8, 7.14; envelopes, restrictions, 5.8, 8.9; false credit information, 7.11; FDCPA application, 4.6.4, 4.6.6; case summaries, Appx. E.1.5; identification requirements, 5.6.8, 6.7, 7.13; messages, 7.14.1; inconvenient time or place, 5.3, Appx. E.2.2.1; cellular phones, 5.3.7; collector inquiry as to convenience, 5.3.5; communications broadly covered, 5.3.2; inconvenient places, 5.3.4; inconvenient times, 5.3.3; other provisions, 5.3.6; waiver of protections,5.3.6; legal proceedings, 3.2.7.3, 4.6.4, 4.6.6, 4.6.8; location information, obtaining, 5.7, 5.8, 6.7.2; postcards, prohibition, 8.8; reasonable and civil treatment, 3.2.6; revealing indebtedness to others, Ch. 8; records; discovery, 2.4.9; use as evidence, 2.4.5; represented debtors, 2.3.7, 4.6.6, 5.4, 5.8, 16.2.4.3.3, Appx. E.2.2.2; right to stop, 5.10, Appx. E.2.2.5; demand letters, 2.3.2, 2.4.7.6; notice of right, 5.10.4, 9.3.6.2.2; state rights, 5.10.4; state laws, application, 16.2.3.2; subsequent collection agencies, 5.10.3; telephone harassment, see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; third-party contacts, see THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS; unreasonable, 15.2.4; verification of debt after, 9.3; verification period, during, 9.4.4; verification right period, during, 9.3.7; waiver of protections,5.9; workplace contacts, 5.3.4, Ch. 7, Appx. E.2.2.3
COLLECTION FEES: communication charges, 8.6; illegal service charges, 7.5; incorrect statements, 7.4.3.2; unauthorized, collecting, 8.4
COLLECTION FORMS: see also COLLECTION LETTERS; deceptive forms, 7.4, 7.6, 7.12, 10.4, Appx. E.2.8; flat-rating, 10.4.1, 10.4.2, Appx. E.1.3; legal process, simulating, 7.12; suppliers and designers, debt collector status, 4.1, 10.4.1, Appx. E.1.2.2.4
COLLECTION LETTERS: see also COLLECTION CONTACTS; COLLECTION FORMS; attorney violations, 3.2.7.6, 7.6, 7.12, 10.4.3; bankruptcy filing, after, 13.2.4; deceptive statements, 7.2; disclosure requirements, 7.14; envelopes, restrictions, 5.8, 8.9; flat-rating, see FLAT-RATING; interstate letters, 3.2.7.6.3; legal letterhead, 7.2.10.3; legal process, simulating, 7.12, 7.13, 7.16; postcards, restrictions, 8.8; review of file by attorney prior to, 7.6.2, 7.6.3, 7.12, 10.4.3
COLLECTION SUITS: see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT
COLLECTORS: see DEBT COLLECTORS
COLORADO RIVER DOCTRINE: comity, 12.5.3
COMMERCIAL CREDIT: see BUSINESS DEBTS
COMMUNICATION: see COLLECTION CONTACTS
COMMUNICATIONS DECENCY ACT: telephone harassment, prohibition, 14.3.1
COMMUNITY EDUCATION: debt harassment, rights, 2.10
COMPLAINTS: CFPB, to, 1.2, 1.3.1.2, 2.10; collection harassment, 2.3.2, 2.3.5; civil, see PLEADINGS; FTC, to, 1.3.1.2, 2.3.5; frequent allegations, 1.3.1.2; state agencies, to, 2.3.5, 2.10
COMPUTER-ASSISTED DUNNING: technological changes, 1.5
CONDOMINIUM AND CO-OP FEES: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.1.2
CONFIDENTIALITY CLAUSES: settlements, 2.5.2.3
CONSENT: autodialed or prerecorded calls, 14.3.2.4.2; burden of proof, 14.3.2.5; revocation of consent, 14.3.2.4.4; who may give consent, 14.3.2.4.3; third-party collection contacts, 5.6, 5.9
CONSPIRACY: see CIVIL CONSPIRACY
CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES: see also DUE PROCESS CONSIDERATIONS; FDCPA, 3.3; punitive damages, 2.6.1; standing, see STANDING; state debt collection statutes, 16.2.2; state or local officials, abuses by, 14.11
CONSUMER DEBTS: amount, misrepresentation, 7.4.3, 8.4, 9.3.6.4, 9.3.6.5, 16.2.4.4.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.10; bankruptcy discharge, 13.2.6; buyers, see DEBT BUYERS; character, misrepresentation, 7.4.2; charged-off debts, 1.4.4.2; collection, see DEBT COLLECTION; counseling services, see CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES; date of delinquency, 14.6.2.2; default status, 4.3.10; definition, 4.1, 4.2.2, 4.4.2; disputing, 9.3.6.3, 15.4, 15.6.3; failure to dispute, effect, 9.5; FDCPA, application, 4.4.1, 4.4.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.1; federal agencies, to, see FEDERAL DEBT COLLECTION; financially distressed consumers, 1.3.1.4; forgiven debts, 1.4.3; fraud or identity theft, 14.6.4; installment payments, see WORKOUT AGREEMENTS; legal status, misrepresentation, 7.4.4, 16.2.4.4.7; misrepresentations, 7.4; multiple, application of payments, 10.2; nonpayment, false accusations, 15.5.3; publicizing; FDCPA restrictions, 6.5, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.3.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; purchasing by collection agencies, 1.3.4; reinvestigations, 14.6.2.3; RICO claims, 14.5; settlement, see DEBT SETTLEMENT; state collection statutes, application, 16.2.3.1.3; TILA disclosures, 14.4; time-barred debts, 7.2.12; transfer, see SALE OF DEBTS; unlawful debt, defined, 14.5.2; validity, examination, 2.1.3; verification notices, see VERIFICATION NOTICES; verification rights, 2.3.6, 9.2, 9.4
CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU (CFPB): debt collection complaints, 1.2, 1.3.1.2, 2.3.5, 2.10; templates, 2.3.2; FDCPA; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.7.3; enforcement authority, 3.4.2.5; rulemaking authority, 3.4.2.5; unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices, examples, 16.3.7
CONSUMER LOCATING SERVICES: see SKIP TRACING
CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES: CFPB, see CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU (CFPB); FTC, see FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC); harassment complaints to, 2.3.5, 2.10
CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES: see also CREDIT REPORTS; actions against, malice or willful intent, 15.3.1, 15.5; credit bureau, use of term by non-reporting agency,1.3.8, 1.4.2, 2.5.7, 7.19, 14.6.6.1; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.6; credit reports, provision, 6.4.3; free annual report,14.6.6.3; deceptive representations, 7.2.5.2; definition, 7.19; Fair Credit Reporting Act; limited immunity, 15.1.4; requirements 15.6; file disclosure, 14.6.6.3; fraud or identity theft, special duties, 14.6.4; inaccurate information, 7.11, 14.6.2, 14.6.2.3; examples, 14.6.2.2; liability of furnishers, 14.6.2, 14.6.2.3; notice of dispute, 14.6.2.3.1; reinvestigations, 14.6.2.3.2, 14.6.2.3.3; invasion of privacy claims, 15.3.1; limited immunity, 15.1.4; misrepresentation as, 7.19; overview,1.3.8, 1.4.2; privilege, 15.1.3.2; reinvestigations, 14.6.3.3; furnisher’s duty, 14.6.2.3.2; notice of dispute, 14.6.2.3.1; time limits, 14.6.2.3.3; reinsertion of deleted information, 14.6.2.3.4; reporting debts to, 6.4.3; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.8; debt settlement, 14.6.7; deceptive threats, 7.13, 14.6.6.3; disputed debts, 7.11, 9.4.2, 14.6.6.2; false information, 7.11; FCRA, application, 14.6.1; inaccuracies, 2.3.6, 14.6.2, 14.6.2.3; threats during verification period, 9.3.7.4; verification period, during, 9.4.4, 14.6.6.2
CONSUMER REPORTS: see CREDIT REPORTS
CONSUMERS: see also DEBTORS; debts, see CONSUMER DEBTS; definition, 4.4.1; elder issues, 1.3.1.6; FDCPA, application, 4.4.2; financially distressed, 1.3.1.4; generally, 1.3.1.1; harassment, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; least sophisticated standard, 3.2.1, 7.2.4, 7.8.2, 8.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.1.1; limited English proficiency, 1.3.1.8; location information, see LOCATION INFORMATION; mental health issues, 1.3.1.3; racial and ethnic disparities, 1.3.1.5; represented by attorney, see LEGAL REPRESENTATION; REPRESENTED DEBTORS; self-representation, 2.12, 3.2.7.6.6; servicemembers, 1.3.1.7; state law, application, 16.2.3.1.3, 16.2.3.4, 16.3.3.5; susceptible consumer standard, 6.1; veterans 1.3.1.7
CONTACT: see COLLECTION CONTACTS
CONTESTS: debt collection by, 7.13, 7.14.1
CONTRACTS: see CREDIT AGREEMENTS
CONTRACTUAL RELATIONSHIPS: tortious interference, 15.4
CONVERSION: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.3
CORPORATE AFFILIATES: collecting of debts; collection agency for parent, 4.2.5, 4.3.10.5; non-collection agencies, 4.3.3, Appx. E.1.2.3.2; use of own name, 4.3.3, 7.17; FDCPA violations, application, 4.2.3.3, 11.3.4.2
CORPORATE OFFICERS: liability for collection abuses; FDCPA, 4.2.3.2, 11.3.4.1; tort claims, 15.9
COSTS: see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS
COUNSELING: see also CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES; harassed debtors, by attorneys, 2.1.4
COUNTERCLAIMS: class actions, 11.7.4.3; compulsory counterclaims, 12.5.2; FDCPA suits; attorney fee applications by way of, 12.8.1; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.6; defense tactic, 11.7.4.3; underlying debt, 12.7; harassment claims as, 2.4.7.5; jurisdiction, 11.2.1; statute of limitations, 12.3; recoupment claims, 12.3.8; supplemental jurisdiction, 12.7
CREDIT: see CONSUMER DEBTS
CREDIT AGREEMENTS: arbitration clauses, 2.4.8; new payment schedules, see WORKOUT AGREEMENTS
CREDIT BUREAUS: see CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES
CREDIT CARDS: billing disputes, TILA protections, 14.4.2; FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2
CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES: see also COUNSELING; collection contacts, 5.6.3; FDCPA, application, 4.1, 4.2.2, 4.3.6, Appx. E.1.2.3.5; scams, 1.3.9
CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS ACT (CROA): coverage, 14.9.2; overview, 14.9.1; remedies, 14.9.5; restrictions on CROs, 14.9.3; substantive prohibitions, 14.9.4
CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS STATUTES (STATE): see also CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS ACT (CROA); generally, 16.4.1; prohibitions, 16.4.3; remedies, 16.4.4; scope, 16.4.2
CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES: see CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES
CREDIT REPORTS: see also CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCIES; collection agencies, obtaining, 14.6.3; debt settlement, 14.6.7; debts arising from fraud or identity theft, 14.6.4; deleted information, reinsertion, 14.6.2.3.4; FCRA, application, 14.6; FDCPA, application, 4.6.7; FDCPA prohibitions, 14.6.6; free annual report, 14.6.6.3; harmful information, rectification, 2.5.2.3; improper acquisition, 14.6.3; inaccurate information; correction, 2.3.6, 14.6.2.3; FDCPA, application, 7.11; liability, 14.6.1, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; punitive damages, 2.6.2; intentional interference with contractual relationships, 15.4; limited immunity, 15.1.4; obsolete information, 14.6.2.2; provision by reporting agencies, 6.4.3; state law, application, 16.2.4.2; use by credit industry,1.3.8, 1.4.2
CREDIT SERVICES ORGANIZATIONS ACTS (STATE): see CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS STATUTES (STATE)
CREDIT TRANSACTIONS: see also CONSUMER DEBTS; FDCPA, application, 4.4; intentional interference with contractual relationships, 15.4; TILA claims, collector liability, 14.4.2
CREDITORS: abusive collection practices, 1.3.3; affiliated collectors, FDCPA exclusion, 4.3.3; alternative dispute mechanisms, see MANDATORY ARBITRATION; bankruptcy stay violations, 13.2.4; billing errors, see BILLING ERRORS; caller ID services, use, 1.5; cancellation of debt, 1.4.3; collection agency abuses, liability, 1.3.3, 2.8; consumer reporting agencies; reporting to, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.5; status as, 14.6.5; credit repair organization statutes; CROA, application, 14.9.1, 14.9.2; state statutes, application, 16.4.2; credit reports; inaccurate information, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; obtaining, 14.6.3; debt collection, see DEBT COLLECTION; debt collector status, 4.2.2–4.2.5; deceptive forms, liability, 10.4.1; definition, 4.1, 4.3.2, 14.9.2; disputed debts, reinvestigations; notice of dispute, 14.6.2.3.1; reasonable investigations, 14.6.2.3.2; time limits, 14.6.2.3.3; employees, FDCPA exclusion, 4.3.2; false names, use, 4.2.5, 4.3.2, 4.3.10.6, 7.6.1; FCRA, application, 14.6; FDCPA; application, 2.8, 4.1, 4.2.2–4.2.5, 4.3.9, 10.4.1; exclusion, 4.3.2, Appx. E.1.2.3.1; liability, 4.2.3.3; FDCPA actions; defenses, see DEFENSES; joinder, 11.3.4.5, 11.2.5; fraud or identity theft, duties, 14.6.4; intentional interference with contractual relationships, 15.4; IRS Form 1099-C, sending, 1.4.3; litigation misconduct, 12.5.6; mistaken information, reliance by collector, 12.2.6; name and address, requesting, 9.4; overview of collection process, 1.3.3; servicing agents, see SERVICING COMPANIES; state remedies against, 16.2.3.3.1; UDAP statutes, application, 16.3.3.4; unauthorized practice of law, 16.5.1, 16.5.5; vicarious liability; attorney wrongdoing, 2.8; collector’s wrongdoing, 1.3.3, 2.8, 15.9; generally, 2.8; tort claims, 15.9
CRIMINAL CONDUCT: false accusations of, 7.10; FDCPA prohibition, 6.2; tortious, as, 15.7.7
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: see FINES
CRIMINAL PROSECUTION: see also MALICIOUS PROSECUTION; abusive collection practices, 16.2.1, 16.2.4.3.2, 16.6
DAMAGES: actual damages, see DAMAGES, ACTUAL; bankruptcy; discharge violations, 13.2.6; stay violations, 13.2.4; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.1; causation, proof, 2.5.5, 11.4.4; class actions, 11.7; compensable damages, 2.5.4; credit repair violations; CROA remedies, 14.9.1, 14.9.5; state law remedies, 16.4.4; debt harassment, uncovering, 2.1.2; expectations, 2.1.4; defamation, 15.5; emotional distress, 11.4.2, 15.2.6; evidence, 2.5.3; FDCPA actions, increasing awards, 11.3.2.1; leveraging other relief, 2.5.2.3; multiple damages, 11.5.8; often overlooked damages, 2.5.2; prejudgment interest, 11.9.8; punitive damages, see DAMAGES, PUNITIVE; state law violations, 16.2.5.2; statutory damages, see DAMAGES, STATUTORY; tax collectors, code violations, 14.10; TCPA violations, 14.3.2.1; tortious interference with a contract, 15.4.2; UDAP remedies, 16.3.8
DAMAGES, ACTUAL: see also DAMAGES; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.1.1; causation, 2.5.5, 11.4.4; class actions, 11.3.2.2, 11.7.2.3.5; common types of injuries and losses, 2.5.2.2; definition, 11.4.1; election of damages, 11.4.5; emotional distress, 11.4.2; evidence, 2.5.3; FDCPA violations, 2.5.2, 11.4; general principles, 2.5.2.1; maximum award benefits, 2.5.1; other awards, relationship, 11.4.5; statutory damages, 11.5.4; out-of-pocket losses, 2.5.2.2.3, 2.5.4; personal relations, injuries to, 2.5.2.2.4; proof, 11.4.3; state law remedies, 16.2.5.2.1; stress-related injuries, 2.5.2.2.2, 2.5.4
DAMAGES, PUNITIVE: see also DAMAGES; actual damages in addition, 11.4.5; arbitration, 2.4.8.12; availability, 11.6.1; bankruptcy situations; discharge violations, 13.2.6; stay violations, 13.2.4; CROA violations, 14.9.1, 14.9.5; debt buyers, against, 2.6.2; FCRA claims, 2.6.2; FDCPA claims, 2.6.1, 11.6; harassment actions, 2.5.2.1, 2.6.1; state law violations, 16.2.5.2.3; supplemental claims, 11.6.2
DAMAGES, STATUTORY: see also DAMAGES; actual damages; in addition, 11.4.5, 11.5.1; no requirement, 11.5.1, 11.5.2, 11.5.4; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.1.2; class actions, 11.7.3; amount, 11.7.3.1; computing, 11.7.3.2; factors, 11.7.3.4; FDCPA suits, 11.3.2.2; maximizing, 11.7.3.3; supplemental state claims, 11.7.3.3; enhancing awards, 11.5.5, 11.7.3.3; factors, 11.5.2, 11.7.3.4; individual actions, 11.5; mandatory award, 11.5.3; maximum award, 11.5.1, 11.5.5, 11.5.8; multiple awards, 11.5.8; maximum award, 11.5.8.1; multiple defendants, 11.5.8.2; multiple plaintiffs, 11.5.8.1; multiple wrongful acts, 11.5.8.3; other awards, relationship, 11.5.7; prejudgment interest, 11.9.8; reducing awards, 11.5.6; state law violations, 16.2.5.2.2; TCPA violations, 14.3.2.1; TILA actions, compared, 11.7.3.1
DATABASES: debt collectors, 1.3.5.2.3; NCLC publications, 1.1.1.2, 1.1.1.3; use to establish false suit threats, 7.2.10.2.2
DEAD BEAT LISTS: publication, 5.6.5, 6.4.2
DEAD PERSONS: see DECEDENTS’ DEBTS
DEBT BUYERS: see also SALE OF DEBT; abusive conduct, 1.3.4; arbitration clauses, enforcing, 2.4.8.4; collection by, 1.4.7; FDCPA, application, 4.2.4, 4.3.10; case summaries, Appx. E.1.2.2.6; debt collector status, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.1; IRS Form 1099-C, sending, 1.4.3; law suits, mass filing, 7.6.4; largest buyers, 1.3.4.1; overview, 1.3.4.1; punitive damages, against, 2.6.2; state collection statutes, application, 16.2.3.3.1
DEBT COLLECTION: see also COLLECTION AGENCIES; DEBT COLLECTORS; FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT (FDCPA); abusive conduct, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; actions, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; “alleged” debts, 4.6.3; amount and type, 1.3.5.2.4; anti-trust laws, application, 14.12; arbitration techniques, see MANDATORY ARBITRATION; attorneys, see ATTORNEYS, collection attorneys; auto dialer systems, 1.5; bankruptcy and, Ch. 13; automatic stay, 13.2.4; claims arising out of, 13.7; claims re, impact, 13.3; discharged debts, 13.2.6; caller ID services, use, 1.5; canceled debts, 1.4.3; computer-assisted, 1.5; contacts, see COLLECTION CONTACTS; debt servicing distinguished, 4.3.10; decedent’s debts, 3.4.4.1.6, 5.8; deceptive conduct, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; disclosure requirements, 7.14; third parties, 5.6.8; discriminatory tactics, 14.8; extortionate methods, 14.5; faxes, by, 1.5; FCRA, application, 14.6; FDCPA, application, Ch. 4; activities in connection with, 4.6.7; attempted collections, 4.6.1, 4.6.2; communications, 4.6.4, 4.6.6; indirect collections, 4.6.1, 4.6.7; litigation activities, 4.6.8, 12.5.6; mistaken collections, 4.6.1, 4.6.3; federal agencies, see TAX COLLECTIONS; fees, see COLLECTION FEES; fraud or identity theft, debts arising from, 14.6.4; garnishment, see GARNISHMENT; harassment, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; interstate, see INTERSTATE DEBT COLLECTION; mails, fraudulent use, 14.1; NCLC treatise, organization, 1.1.1.2; overview of process and players, 1.3; practice of law, unauthorized or unethical, 16.5; reasonable and civil treatment, 3.2.6; regulatory history, 1.2; related businesses, 1.3.9; RICO claims, 14.5; servicing companies, by, 4.2.3.1, 4.2.6.3, 4.3.10.1, 4.3.10.3; state governmental immunity, 16.1.4; state restrictions, see STATE LAW; technological changes, 1.5; telephone harassment, see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; tort actions, Ch. 9; UDAP statutes, application, 16.3.3; state-by-state survey, 16.3.3.6; unfair or unconscionable activities, see UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES; unlawful debts, 14.5.2; unlicensed, 7.8.5, 16.2.4.5; unordered merchandise, 14.2; verification period, during, 9.3.7, 9.4.4; websites, Appx. H; workout agreements, see WORKOUT AGREEMENTS
DEBT COLLECTORS: see also COLLECTION AGENCIES; DEBT COLLECTION; abusive conduct, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; arbitration clauses; application, 2.4.8.8; enforcement, 2.4.8.5; assigned debts, 4.3.10; attorney impersonation, 7.6, 7.12; attorneys as, 1.3.6, 4.2.8, 3.2.7, 7.6, 10.4.3; auto dialer systems, 1.5; bona fide errors, 7.4.3.1, 12.2, Appx. E.3.6.1; caller ID services; misleading IDs, 14.3.3.2, 14.3.3.3; use, 1.5; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.2; check collectors, 1.3.5.2.5; codes frequently used, 2.4.5, Appx. G; collection contacts, see COLLECTION CONTACTS; collection suits, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; consumer reporting agencies; reporting to, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; status as, 14.6.5; counterclaims, see COUNTERCLAIMS; credit bureau, use of term,1.3.8, 1.4.2, 2.5.7, 7.19, 14.6.6.1, Appx. E.2.4.6; credit repair organization statutes; CROA, application, 14.9.1, 14.9.2; state statutes, application, 16.4.2; credit reports; inaccurate information, furnishing, 2.6.2, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; obtaining and use, 14.6.3; notice of dispute, 14.6.2.3.1; databases, 1.3.5.2.3; deceptive conduct, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; defenses, see DEFENSES; definition, 1.1.1.6, 4.2.1, 4.2.3.1; exclusions, 4.3; describing oneself as, effect, 4.2.3.5, 4.2.5; direct liability, 4.2.3.3; dunning, see COLLECTION CONTACTS; DEBT COLLECTION; electronic fund transfers, 14.7; see also ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFERS; employees; FDCPA actions, joinder as party, 11.3.4.5; FDCPA application, 4.3.1; FDCPA violations, liability, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2, 11.3.4.1; torts, liability, 15.9; use of aliases, 6.7.3; erroneous information; liability, 3.2.4, 7.4; reliance on, 12.2.6; false representations, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; FCRA; application, 14.6; violations, punitive damages, 2.6.2; FDCPA; application, 4.2; exclusions, 4.3; violations, see FDCPA VIOLATIONS; fees, see COLLECTION FEES; flat-rate collectors, see FLAT-RATING; fraud or identity theft, duties, 14.6.4; FTC complaints re, 1.3.1.2; good faith error defense, applicability, 7.4.3.1, 12.2; harassment by, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; identification requirements, 6.7, 7.13; larger collectors, see MAJOR DEBT COLLECTORS; legal proceedings, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; liability insurance, see PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE; loan broker, acting as, 16.8.4; location information, see LOCATION INFORMATION; mails, fraudulent or defamatory use, 14.1; misrepresentations, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; multiple debts, application of payments, 10.2; offers of judgment, 2.4.13; out-of-state collectors; see also INTERSTATE DEBT COLLECTION; long-arm jurisdiction, 11.2.2; service, 11.2.2.1; state law application, 16.2.3.3.6; overseeing by creditors, 1.3.3, 2.8; overview, 1.3.5.2.3; payments to, applicable law, 14.7; publicizing indebtedness; reporting to third parties, 14.6.6.2; restrictions, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.6.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; reasonable procedures, 12.2.8; records; obtaining, 2.4.9; use as evidence, 2.4.5; regulatory history, 1.2; remotely created checks, 14.7.1, 14.7.2.1; seizure of third-party money, see GARNISHMENT; servicing companies as, 4.2.3.1, 4.2.6.3, 4.3.10.1, 4.3.10.3; specialized collectors, 1.3.5.2.3; state collection laws, application, 16.2.3.3; status as, 4.2; tax collections, 14.10; TILA, 14.4; disclosure requirements, 14.4.1; liability under, 14.4.2; true name, use, 7.17; UDAP statutes, application, 16.3.3; unlicensed, 7.8.5, 16.2.4.5; verification notices, provision, 9.3; verification of debt, obtaining, 9.4
DEBT COUNSELING SERVICES: see CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES
DEBT ELIMINATION: see DEBT RELIEF SERVICES
DEBT HARASSMENT: see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT
DEBT POOLING: FDCPA, application, 4.1
DEBT RELIEF SERVICES: counseling, see CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES; debt settlement or negotiation, see DEBT SETTLEMENT
DEBT NEGOTIATION: see DEBT SETTLEMENT
DEBT SELLING: see DEBT BUYERS; SALE OF DEBT
DEBT SERVICING: see SERVICING COMPANIES
DEBT SETTLEMENT: case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.16; credit reporting issues, 14.6.7; IRS Form 1099-C, 1.4.3; scams, 1.3.9; tax liability, 1.4.3, 2.5.2.3
DEBTORS: see also CONSUMER DEBTS; CONSUMERS; counseling; by attorneys, 2.1.4; services, see CREDIT COUNSELING SERVICES; garnishment, see GARNISHMENT; harassment, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; judgment proof, 1.3.3; location information, see LOCATION INFORMATION; publicizing of indebtedness, restrictions, 6.4, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.6.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; representation by attorney, see LEGAL REPRESENTATION; self-representation, 2.12
DEBTS: see BUSINESS DEBTS; CONSUMER DEBTS; DECEDENTS’ DEBTS
DECEDENTS’ DEBTS: FDCPA application, 4.5; FTC enforcement policy, 3.4.4.1.6, 5.8
DECEPTION: see also DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; CROA prohibitions, 14.9.4; expert evidence, 2.4.14, 7.2.8; fact or law, 7.2.6; FDCPA standard, 7.2; FTC standard, 7.2.3; half-truths, 7.2.5; least sophisticated consumer standard, 3.2.1, 7.2.4; materiality, 7.2.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.1.2; surveys and experts, use to establish, 2.4.14, 2.5.7
DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES: see also ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES; attorney, impersonation, 7.6, 7.12; attorney debt collectors, 3.2.7.6, 7.6, 7.12, 10.4.3; broad construction, 7.2.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4; CFPB standards, 16.3.7; claims; based on specific provisions, 7.2.9; materiality of, 7.2.7; credit reporting agencies, misrepresentation as, 7.19; debt collection purposes, failure to disclose, 7.14; deceptive statements; amount of debt, 7.4.3, 16.2.4.4.2; amount of fees, 7.4.3; character of debt, 7.4.2, 16.2.4.4.2; collection suits, 7.2.12.4, 16.2.4.4.3; examples, 7.2.12.1; generally, 7.2.5, 7.2.12.1; legal status of debt, 7.4.4, 16.2.4.4.7; letters to consumer representative, 7.2.4; materiality, 7.2.7, Appx. E.2.4.1.2; settlement offers, 7.2.12.2; time-barred debts, 7.2.12.3; deceptive threats; credit reporting, 14.6.6.3; creditor remedy before judgment, 7.2.10.3; examples, 7.2.11; foreclosure threats, 8.7; illegal threats, 7.7, 7.8.6; law suit, 7.2.10, 7.8.3, Appx. E.2.4.2; least sophisticated consumer standard, 7.8.2; on-line data bases, use to establish, 7.2.10.2.2; other threats, 7.2.11, Appx. E.2.4.3; repossession threats, 8.7; state law violations, 16.2.4.4.3; time-barred suits, 7.2.12.3; transfer of debt, 7.9; unintended acts, 7.7, 7.8; experts, use to establish, 2.4.14, 2.5.7, 7.2.8; false accusations of criminal conduct,7.10; false accusations of nonpayment, 15.5.3; false impression of source or authorization, 7.12; false information, communicating, 7.11; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4; false names, using, 7.13, 7.17, 16.2.4.4.4; false representation of debt, 7.4; amount owing, 7.4.3, 16.2.4.4.2; character of debt, 7.4.2, 16.2.4.4.2; legal status of debt, 7.4.4, 16.2.4.4.7; nonpayment of debt, 15.5.3; false representation of services or compensation, 7.5; false representations, generally, 7.13; FDCPA, general prohibition, 7.2, 7.13; FDCPA, specific prohibitions, Ch. 7; FDCPA standards; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4; difficulties in applying, 7.2.5.2; fact or law, 5.2.6; generally, 7.2.3; least sophisticated consumer, 7.2.4; legislative history, 7.2.13; materiality, 7.2.7, Appx. E.2.4.1.2; strict liability, 3.2.4, Appx. E.2.4.1.3; flat-rate collectors, 10.4.1, 10.4.2; foreclosures, 7.2.12.5; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.20; FTC standards, 7.2.3; generally, 7.13; government affiliation, falsely implying, 7.3, 7.12; half-truths, 7.2.5; information, obtaining through deception, 7.13; innocent purchaser, misrepresentation as, 7.15; lawsuit threat, 7.2.10, 7.8.3, 16.2.4.4.3; legal process; concealment, 7.18; simulating, 7.12, 7.16; legal representation, see LEGAL REPRESENTATION; legislative history, 7.2.13; misrepresentation of debt, 7.4, 16.2.4.4.2; misrepresentation of services or charges, 7.5; state prohibitions, 16.2.4.4; surveys, use to establish, 2.4.14, 2.5.7, 7.2.8; time-barred suits, 7.2.12.3; tort actions, 15.7.5; UDAP violations, 16.3.4, 16.3.8; unlicensed debt collection, 7.8.5, 16.2.4.5
DECLARATORY RELIEF: FDCPA actions; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.4; class actions, 11.3.2.3, 11.7.2.3.3, 11.8.1; individual actions, 11.8.1, 16.7
DEFAMATION: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.5; holding up to false light, distinguished, 15.3.3; FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; immunity, 15.5.5; mails, use for, 14.1; malice requirement, 15.5.5; nonpayment of debt, false statements, 15.5.3; nontrader rule, 15.5.3; overview of elements, 15.5.1; per quod, 15.5.2; per se, 15.5.2; pleading, 15.5.6; privilege defense, 15.1.3, 15.5.5; proof, 15.5.6; truth as defense, 15.5.4; underlying debt, proof of invalidity, 2.1.3
DEFAULT JUDGMENT: deceptively obtaining, 7.18; reopening by collector, 2.4.7.9
DEFENDANTS: see also DEFENSES; collection actions, see CONSUMERS; FDCPA actions, 11.3.4; attorney fee awards to, 12.8.1; costs awards to, 12.8.4; joining exempt parties, 11.3.4.5; multiple defendants, statutory damages, 11.5.8.2
DEFENSES: actions on the debt; examining, 2.1.3; transfer of debt, loss of, false threats, 7.9; arbitration clauses, enforceability, 2.4.8.10; bankruptcy issues, see BANKRUPTCY; bona fide error defense, see BONA FIDE ERROR DEFENSE; class actions, 11.7.4; constitutional issues, see CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES; defamation claims, 15.5; immunity and privilege, 15.5.5; truth, 15.5.4; FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; FDCPA claims; bad faith, 12.2; bankruptcy law, 12.5.1; bona fide error, 12.2, Appx. E.3.6.1; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.6; collateral estoppel, 12.5.2; comity, 12.5.3; compulsory counterclaim rule, 12.5.2; deception claims, 7.2.5; FTC opinion conformity, 12.4; generally, 2.4.7.9, 12.1; harassment by debtor, 12.8.1; litigation related, 12.5; other defenses and strategies, 12.6; overview, 12.1; res judicata, 12.5.2, Appx. E.3.11; Rooker-Feldman doctrine, 12.5.4, Appx. E.3.7.7; sovereign immunity, 12.5.5; statute of limitations, 12.3; technicality defense, 12.6; unsuccessful defenses, 12.6; federal preemption, see PREEMPTION; jurisdiction, see JURISDICTION; justification, 15.4.4; malicious defense, tort of, 15.6.1; malicious prosecution, 15.6.2; mistake of law as, 12.2.2, 12.2.3; offers of judgment, see OFFERS OF JUDGMENT; preemption, see PREEMPTION; privilege, 15.1.3, 16.1.3; SLAPP laws, 15.1.3.3; standing, see STANDING; state law claims, 16.2.5.3; statute of limitations, see STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS; tortious interference claims, 15.4.4; truth, 7.2.5; venue, see VENUE
DEFINITIONS: abuse, 6.1, 6.3; actual damages, 11.4.1; adverse action, 14.8; automated telephone dialing system, 14.3.2.3; bona fide error, 12.2.5; communication, 4.6.4, 5.3.2, 5.6.7, 5.7; consumer, 4.4.1; consumer reporting agency, 7.19; credit, 14.4.1; credit repair organization, 14.9.2; creditor, 4.3.2, 14.8, 14.9.2; debt, 4.2.2, 4.4.2, Appx. E.1.1; debt collector, 1.1.1.6, 4.2.1, 4.2.3.1, Appx. E.1.2; default, 4.3.10.5; harass, 6.1; location information, 5.7; obscene, 6.3; oppress, 6.1; pattern of racketeering activity, 14.5.2; process, 15.6.3.2; profane, 6.3; transaction, 4.4.2.3; unconscionable, 8.2; unfairness, 8.2; unlawful debt, 14.5.2
DEMAND LETTERS: see COLLECTION LETTERS
DIGITAL VERSION: about, 1.1.1.1; FDCPA Case Connector, 1.1.1.4; practice tools, Appx. F; primary sources, Appx. F; sample pleadings, Appx. F
DISCLOSURE: credit reports, 14.6.6.3; debt collection purposes, 7.14, 8.6; third parties,5.6.8; debt collector identity, 6.7, 7.13; true name, 6.7.4, 7.17; indebtedness, 6.5, 14.6.6.1; public disclosure of private facts, tort action, 15.3.4; telephone caller ID, 14.3.3.3; TILA, workout agreements, 14.4.1; verification notice, see VERIFICATION NOTICES
DISCOVERY: see also LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.9; class actions, numerosity, 11.7.2; FDCPA, application, 3.2.7.3; harassment actions, 2.4.9; creditor’s documentation, 2.4.5; delayed production of abusive recordings, 2.4.9.3; initial focus, 2.4.9.1; liability insurance, existence, 2.7; other victims, 2.4.5; permitted areas of inquiry, 2.4.9.2; protection orders, 2.4.9.2; tape-recorded conversations, 2.4.9.3
DISCRIMINATION: see also CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIONS; debt collection tactics, 14.8
DISHONORED CHECKS: see BAD CHECKS
DISPUTED DEBTS: collection activities, 9.3.7, 9.4.4; credit reports, 7.11, 14.6.2.3; information responses, 5.10.2; oral disputes of, 9.3.6.3, 9.4.2; reporting to third parties, 7.11, 9.4.2, 9.4.4, 14.6.6.2; verification notice, see VERIFICATION NOTICES; verification of debt, see VERIFICATION OF DEBT
DISTANT FORUMS: see VENUE
DISTRICT ATTORNEYS: check collectors operating under supervision of, see CHECK DIVERSION PROGRAMS
DUE PROCESS CONSIDERATIONS: see also CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES; government officials, debt collection abuses, 14.11.3
DUNNING: see COLLECTION LETTERS; DEBT COLLECTION
EARNINGS: garnishment, see WAGE GARNISHMENT; tortious interference, 15.4.2
ECONOMIC RELATIONS: tortious interference, 15.4; contracts, 15.4.2; prospective relations, 15.4.3
EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS: see STUDENT LOANS
ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFERS: acceptance by collector, restrictions, 8.5; applicable law, 14.7.1; EFTA, 14.7.2; authorization, 14.7.2; NSF fees, 14.7.4; re-presentment, 14.7.5
ELECTRONIC MESSAGES: see E-MAIL SPAM
E-MAIL SPAM: see also TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; CAN SPAM Act, 14.3.5
EMOTIONAL DISTRESS: see also TORT CLAIMS; bankruptcy discharge violations, 13.2.6; common stress-related injuries, 2.5.2.2.2; corroborative evidence, 2.5.2.1, 2.5.3; damages, 2.5.3, 11.4.2, 15.2.6; compensable damages, 2.5.4; debt harassment, 2.1.2, 2.4.12, 2.5.2.1, 2.5.5; expert evidence, 2.4.12; FDCPA actions, 11.4.2; intentional infliction; actionable conduct, 15.2.4; actionable distress, 15.2.2; elements, 15.2.1; physical injury, necessity, 15.2.3; mental health, 1.3.1.3; negligent infliction, 15.2.5; notice to defense, 2.5.2.1; personal relations, injuries to, 2.5.2.2.4; proximate cause, 2.5.5; severe distress, 15.2.2; tort actions, 15.2; UDAP remedies, 16.3.8
EMPLOYEES: see also EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIPS; WORKPLACES; collection contacts, protections, 5.3.4, 5.5; FDCPA exclusion, 4.3.1, 4.3.2, Appx. E.1.2.2.7; FDCPA violations, liability, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2, 11.3.4.1; joining as defendant, 11.3.4.5; government employees, see GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS; state law violations, 16.2.3.3.7; torts, liability, 15.9; wage garnishment, see WAGE GARNISHMENTS
EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIPS: see also WORKPLACES; FDCPA application, 4.4.2.3; FDCPA protections, 5.5, 5.6.2; intentional interference, tort actions, 15.4.2; state law protections, 16.2.4.2.3
ENVELOPES: see also POSTCARDS; debt collectors, FDCPA restrictions, 5.8, 8.9
EQUAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITY ACT (ECOA): discriminatory collection tactics, application, 14.8
EQUAL PROTECTION: see CIVIL RIGHTS CLAIMS; CONSTITUTIONAL ISSUES; DISCRIMINATION
EQUITABLE RELIEF: see DECLARATORY RELIEF; INJUNCTIVE RELIEF
ERRORS: see also BILLING ERRORS; amount owing, false representation, 7.4.3; bona fide error, 12.2.5; see also BONA FIDE ERROR DEFENSE; clerical mistakes, 12.2.4; creditors, liability, 3.2.4, 7.4; debt collectors, bona fide, 12.2, 16.2.5.3; reasonable procedures, 12.2.8; factual errors, 12.2.4; FDCPA, application, 4.6.3; mistake of law; FDCPA interpretation, 12.2.2; state or other federal law, 12.2.3; unintentional error, 12.2.7
ESCROW COMPANIES: FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.8
ESTATES: see DECEDENTS’ DEBTS
ESTOPPEL: FDCPA claims, 12.5.2; bankruptcy situations, 13.3.3
EVICTIONS: see also LANDLORDS; RENT; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.5, 4.4.2.2, 4.6.7; verification notice requirement, 9.3.5
EVIDENCE: see also WITNESSES; actual damage, 11.4.3; business records, 2.4.5; debt harassment; collection record, 2.4.5; damages, 2.5.3; deception, 2.4.14, 2.5.7, 7.2.8; emotional distress, 2.4.12, 2.5.2.1, 11.4.3; expert evidence, 2.4.12, 2.4.14, 2.5.7; gathering, 2.4.1, 2.4.5, 2.4.9; malice, 2.6; pattern or practice evidence, 2.4.6; preserving, community education, 2.10; telephone abuse, 2.4.5, 14.3; deception, 7.2.8; discovery, see DISCOVERY; expert, see EXPERT WITNESSES; malice, 15.6.2.4; survey evidence, see SURVEY EVIDENCE
EXECUTIONS: see SEIZURE AND SALE
EXECUTORS: see TRUSTEES
EXEMPT PROPERTY: see also SEIZURE AND SALE; bank accounts, notice to collectors, 2.3.3
EXPENSES: collection expenses, see COLLECTION FEES
EXPERT WITNESSES: see also EVIDENCE; WITNESSES; debt harassment actions, 2.4.12, 2.5.3; deception, use to establish, 2.4.14, 2.5.7, 7.2.8; rejection of evidence, 2.4.14.2; sources for experts, 2.4.14.3; emotional distress, 2.4.12
EXTORTION: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.7; debt collection methods, 14.5
FAIR CREDIT REPORTING ACT (FCRA): accuracy standards, 14.6.2; consumer reporting agency definition, 14.6.5; credit reports; free annual reports, 14.6.6.3; permissible uses, 14.6.5; fraud or identity theft, 14.6.4; inaccurate reports, liability, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.3.2; limited immunity, 15.1.4; overview, 14.6.1; punitive damages, 2.6.2; reinvestigations, 14.6.2.3; state law preemption, 16.1.2, 16.2.4.2.2; verification of debts, 9.2
FAIR DEBT COLLECTION: see also FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT (FDCPA); continuing legal education, 1.1.3; developing a plaintiffs’ practice, 2.1.6; NCLC treatise, 1.1; online materials, 1.1.1.3, Appx. F; online searches, 1.1.1.2; organization, 1.1.1.2; training events, 1.1.3
FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT (FDCPA): see also DEBT COLLECTION; FAIR DEBT COLLECTION; administrative enforcement, 3.4.2.5; amendments, 3.1, 3.4.2; bankruptcy proceedings and, 2.2, 13.3, 13.7; bona fide error defense, 12.2; caller ID, application, 14.3.3.3; case law, 3.4.3, Appx. E; CFPB authority and expertise; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.7.3; enforcement, 3.4.2.5; claims under, see FDCPA ACTIONS; compliance, creditor responsibility, 1.3.3, 2.8; conformity defense, 12.4; constitutionality, 3.3; construction, 3.2; mistaken interpretation, 12.2.2; coverage, 1.1.1.6, Ch. 4; attorneys, 3.2.7.1; broad scope, 4.6; case summaries, Appx. E.1; commercial and business debt excluded, 4.4.2.4; consumers and persons, 4.5; debt collectors, 4.2; exemptions, 4.3; foreclosure activities, 4.2.6.4; transactions, 4.4; credit reports, application, 14.6.6; cross-reference table, Appx. A.1; deception standard, 7.2.3; declaratory relief, 11.8.1; effective date, 3.1; enforcement authority, 3.4.2.5, 11.1; exclusions, 4.1, 4.3; exempt states, 11.11.2; flat-rate collectors, application, 10.4.1; FTC authority and expertise, case law summaries, Appx. E.1.7.2; FTC enforcement, 3.4.2.5, 3.4.4.1.6; decedents’ debt, policy on collecting, 3.4.4.1.6, 5.8; FTC formal advisory opinions; reliance on, 3.4.2.5; text, Appx. C.1; FTC informal staff letters; text, Appx. C.3; FTC Staff Commentary; authority to issue, 3.4.4.1.4; generally, 3.4.4.1.4; text, Appx. C.2; general validity, Appx. E.1.7; history, 1.2; injunctive relief, 11.8.2, 16.7; interpretation, Appx. E.1.7; language of the Act, 3.4.1; least sophisticated consumer standard, 3.2.1, Appx. E.2.6.1; legislative history, 3.4.2, 4.2.8.3; 1977 Act, 3.4.2.1; 1986 amendments, 3.4.2.2, 4.2.8.2; 1996 amendments, 3.4.2.3; 2006 amendments, 3.4.2.4; 2010 amendment, 3.4.2.5; deceptive practices, 7.2.13; Senate Report, Appx. A.3; liberal construction, 3.2.5; litigation misconduct, application, 12.5.6; mistaken interpretation, 12.2.2; NCLC treatise, 1.1.1.2; noncontractual obligations, application, 4.4.2.3; overview, Ch. 3, 5.1; preemption, 11.11.1; case summaries, Appx. E.1.7.4; principles of construction, 3.2; private enforcement, 11.1; Public Law/U.S.C. cross-reference, Appx. A.1; purpose, 3.1; case summaries, Appx. E.1.7.1; relationship to other federal statutes, 11.11.3; research aids, 3.4; rights under; encouraging exercise, 5.1; reasonable and civil treatment, 3.2.6; waiver, 3.2.3; rulemaking authority. 3.4.2.5; scope, 3.1, 4.2, 4.4, 4.6; case summaries, Appx. E.1; Senate Report No. 95-382, Appx. A.3; state law, relationship, 3.2.2, 11.11; exemptions, 11.11.2; preemption, 11.11.1; statute of limitations, 12.3; statutory damages, see DAMAGES, STATUTORY; strict liability, 3.2.4; tax collections, application, 14.10; text, Appx. A.2; violations; remedies, see FDCPA ACTIONS; strict liability, 3.2.4, 11.5.3, Appx. E.2.4.1.3; UDAP violation, as, 16.3.6; waiver of protections, 3.2.3
FAIRNESS: see UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES
FALSE ACCUSATIONS: criminal conduct, of, 7.10; nonpayment of debt, 15.5.3
FALSE ARREST OR IMPRISONMENT: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.1
FALSE LIGHT: defamation, distinguished, 15.3.3; tort actions, 15.3.3; underlying debt, proof of invalidity, 2.1.3
FALSE NAMES: see also ALIASES; DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; creditors, FDCPA application, 4.2.5, 4.3.2, 4.3.10.6, 7.6.1; FDCPA restrictions, 7.13, 7.17; party defendants, naming persons using, 11.3.4.1
FALSE REPRESENTATIONS: see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES
FALSE THREATS: see THREATS
FAMILY MEMBERS: see CHILDREN; PARENTS; THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS
FAXES: debt collection by, privacy issues, 1.5, 5.6.5
FDCPA ACTIONS: see also FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT (FDCPA); HARASSMENT ACTIONS; actual damages, 11.4; attorney fees, see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; bankruptcy proceedings, 2.2; application, 4.6.8; attorney fees, 13.6; claims arising prior to, 13.3; claims arising out of, 13.7; defense, as, 12.5.1; litigating claims in, 13.5; preemption, 13.7; raising, 13.3; case summaries, Appx. E.3; class actions, 11.7; see also CLASS ACTIONS; attorney fees, 11.9.5; damages, 11.3.2.2; declaratory relief, 11.3.2.3, 11.8.1; defense tactics, 11.7.4; injunctive relief, 11.3.2.3; settlements, 11.7.5; counterclaims; attorney fee applications by way of, 12.8.1; underlying debt, 12.7; deceptive conduct, 7.2.9; materiality, 7.2.7, Appx. E.2.4.1.2; declaratory relief, 11.8.1; defendants, 11.3.4; defenses, see DEFENSES; discovery, see DISCOVERY; evaluation and strategy, 11.3; class actions, 11.3.2.2, 11.3.2.3; increasing awards, 11.3.2.1; overview, 11.3.1; filing date, 12.3.7; injunctive relief, 11.8.2, 16.7; joinder of exempt parties, 11.3.4.5; jurisdiction, 11.2; jury trials, 2.5.6, 11.3.5; non-consumers, application, 4.5; on-line databases, use, 7.2.10.2.2; plaintiffs, 11.3.3; pleading, 4.1; private remedy as primary enforcement, 11.1; pro se litigants, 2.12, 3.2.7.6.6; punitive damages, 11.6; rule 11 sanctions, 12.8.2; sample complaints, Appx. F; self-representation, 2.12, 3.2.7.6.6; statute of limitations, 12.3; statutory damages, 11.5; supplemental state claims, 11.2.4; surveys and experts, use to prove deception, 2.4.14; tax collection abuses, 14.10; underlying debt, settlement, 2.5.2.3; venue, 11.2.3; witness immunity defense, 12.5.6, Appx. E.3.6.6
FDCPA CASE CONNECTOR: see DIGITAL VERSION
FDCPA LIABILITY: see LIABILITY
FDCPA VIOLATIONS: see also FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT (FDCPA); abusive conduct, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; action for, see FDCPA ACTIONS; attorneys, 4.2.3.2, 3.2.7.6, 10.4.3; bankruptcy situations, 13.3, 13.7; arising after bankruptcy, 13.4.2; arising before bankruptcy, 13.3; arising during bankruptcy, 13.4.1; arising out of, 13.7.1, 13.7.2; inflated proof of claim as, 13.7.3; preemption, 13.7; bona fide error, 12.2; case summaries, Appx. E.2; damages, see DAMAGES; deceptive forms, liability, 10.4; deceptive practices, see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; declaratory relief, 11.8.1; defenses, Ch. 7; direct liability, 4.2.3.3; employees or agents, liability, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2; harassment, see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; injunctive relief, 11.8.2; jurisdiction, 11.2; least sophisticated consumer standard, 3.2.1, 7.8.2, 8.2; multiple violations, 11.5.8.3; statute of limitations, 12.3.4; recoupment claims, 12.3.8; sample complaints, Appx. F; statute of limitations, 12.3; strict liability, 3.2.4; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.1.3; unfair practices, see UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES; unintentional violations, 12.2; vicarious liability, 4.2.3.3
FEDERAL AGENCIES: see also CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES; GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS; CFPB, see CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION BUREAU (CFPB); complaints to, 2.3.5, 2.10; FTC, see FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)
FEDERAL BANKING LAWS: preemption of state law, 15.1.2.2, 16.1.2
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC): telephone regulation; call blocking, 14.3.3.4; mobile service commercial messages, 14.3.4; TCPA, 14.3.3
FEDERAL CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS ACT (CROA): see CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS ACT (CROA)
FEDERAL DEBT COLLECTION: tax arrears, see TAX COLLECTIONS
FEDERAL OFFICIALS: see GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
FEDERAL PREEMPTION: see PREEMPTION
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC): see also FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ACT; authority and expertise, case law summaries, Appx. E.1.7.2; complaints to, 2.3.5; frequent allegations, 1.3.1.2; deception standards, 7.2.3; FDCPA enforcement, 3.4.2.5; CFPB overlap, 3.4.2.5; decedents’ debts, policy on collecting, 3.4.4.1.6, 5.8; FDCPA formal advisory opinions; conformity as defense, 3.4.2.5, 12.4; safe haven opinions, 9.4.4; state law preemption, 11.11.1; text, Appx. C.1; FDCPA informal staff letters; generally, 3.4.4.1.5; text, Appx. C.3; FDCPA Staff Commentary; authority to issue, 3.4.4.1.4; generally, 3.4.4.1.4; text, Appx. C.2; FDCPA state exemptions, 11.11.2
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ACT: see also FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC); unfair trade practices, 8.2
FEES: attorney fees, see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; collection fees, see COLLECTION FEES; condominium fees, see CONDOMINIUM AND CO-OP FEES; FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2; NSF charges, electronic collection, 14.7.4; verification of debt, 9.4.3
FICTITIOUS NAMES: see ALIASES; FALSE NAMES
FIDUCIARIES: see TRUSTEES
FINANCE COMPANIES: retail credit sales, FDCPA application, 4.2.5
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS: see BANKS
FINES: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.3, Appx. E.1.1.5.2.3
FLAT-RATING: attorneys, 10.4.3; case summaries, Appx. E.1.3; FDCPA, application, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.4, 10.4; form letters, 10.4.1, 10.4.2
FORECLOSURE LAW FIRMS: see also FORECLOSURES; communication with other creditors, 5.6.3; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.3, 4.3.8; case summaries, Appx. E.1.2.2.3
FORECLOSURES: see also FORECLOSURE LAW FIRMS; deceptive practices, 7.2.12.5; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.20; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.3, 4.2.6.4, 4.4.2.2, 4.6.7, 7.2.12.5; case summaries, Appx. E.1.2.2.3; nonjudicial foreclosure, unfair practices, 8.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5.4.1; rescue scams, see FORECLOSURE RESCUE; state collection laws, application, 16.2.3.1.4, 16.2.3.3.8
FORM LETTERS: see COLLECTION FORMS; COLLECTION LETTERS
FORMS: see COLLECTION FORMS
FORUM: see JURISDICTION; VENUE
FRAUD: abusive collection conduct, tort claims, 15.7.5; CROA prohibitions, 14.9.4; debts arising from, 14.6.4; mails, use for, 14.1; RICO claims, 14.5
FRIENDS: see THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS
FTC: see FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC)
FTC ACT: see FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION ACT
GARNISHMENT: see also POSTJUDGMENT REMEDIES; deceptive threats, 7.7; unfair collection means, 8.3.6; case summaries, Appx. E.2.5.6; venue considerations, 10.3; wages, see WAGE GARNISHMENT; wrongful garnishment, 16.2.4.4.6
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES: see CONSUMER PROTECTION AGENCIES; FEDERAL AGENCIES; GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS; STATE AGENCIES
GOVERNMENT ASSESSMENTS: see FINES
GOVERNMENT DOCUMENTS: see also LEGAL PROCESS; simulating, 7.12
GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS: debt collection abuses, 14.11, 15.7.8; false affiliation, 7.3, 7.12; FDCPA exemption, 4.1, 4.3.4, 12.5.5, Appx. E.1.2.3.3; impersonation, 7.3; search and seizure restrictions, 14.11.4; sovereign immunity, 12.5.5, 14.11.5, 16.1.4; state action, 14.11.1; tort claims against, 14.11, 15.7.8
GUARDIANS: see TRUSTEES
HARASSMENT: see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT
HARASSMENT ACTIONS: see also ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; FDCPA ACTIONS; TORT CLAIMS; actionable conduct, 15.2.4; arbitration, 2.4.8; attorney fees, see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; avoiding litigation, 2.3; bankruptcy situations, 2.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.3; case selection, 2.1.5; chronology of events; developing, 2.4.4; class actions, see CLASS ACTIONS; damages, see DAMAGES; default judgments, reopening by collector, 2.4.7.9; defenses, see DEFENSES; demand letters prior to, 2.4.7.6; developing a plaintiffs’ practice, 2.1.6; discovery, see DISCOVERY; evaluating strategies, 2.3.8; increasing awards, 11.3.2.1; evidence; damages, 2.5.3; gathering, 2.4.1, 2.4.5, 2.4.9; pattern or practice evidence, 2.4.6; survey evidence, 2.4.14.2; expert testimony, 2.4.12; establishing deception, 2.4.14; fee-generating, referral to private attorney, 2.4.3; forum, 2.4.7.2; initial interview, 2.1; injunctions, 2.10; judgments, recovery from insurer, 2.7; jury trials, see JURY TRIALS; legal objectives, clarification, 2.1.4; leveraging other relief, 2.5.2.3; liability, determination by summary judgment, 2.4.11; mandatory arbitration clauses, 2.4.8; offers of judgment, 2.4.13; pleadings; drafting, 2.4.7; sample complaints, 2.4.7.7, Appx. F; preparation of the suit, 2.4; pro se litigants, 2.12; retainer agreements, 2.9; self-representation, 2.12; service of process, 2.4.7.8; settlement, 2.4.10, 2.7; state claims, 16.2.5; see also STATE REMEDIES; importance, 2.4.7.1; utility collections, 16.1.5; structuring the case, 2.4.7.5; underlying debt; settlement, 2.5.2.3; validity, 2.1.3; written statement, obtaining, 2.4.2
HOLDING UP TO FALSE LIGHT: see FALSE LIGHT
HOMEOWNER ASSESSMENTS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2
HONESTY: see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES
HOUSEHOLD GOODS: see EXEMPT PROPERTY; PERSONAL PROPERTY
IDENTITY THEFT: debts arising from, 14.6.4; tort claims, 15.1.5
ILLEGAL ACTION: FDCPA application; collecting unauthorized amount, 8.4; taking illegal action, 7.8.7; threats of illegal action, 7.8.6
IMMUNITY: FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; defamation claims and, 15.5.5; government officials, 14.11.5, 16.1.4; litigation immunity, 12.5.6; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6; defamation claims and, 15.5.5; sovereign immunity, 12.5.5; state governmental immunity, 16.1.4
IMPERSONATION: attorneys, 7.6; government officials, 7.3; tort claims, 15.3.3
IMPRISONMENT: see also FALSE ARREST OR IMPRISONMENT; deceptive threats, 7.7
INCOME TAX: see also INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS); attorney fee awards, liability re, 2.1.4; canceled debts, liability, 1.4.3, 2.5.2.3; collection of arrears, see TAX COLLECTIONS
INJUNCTIVE RELIEF: bankruptcy discharge operates as, 13.2.6; FDCPA actions, 11.8.2, 16.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.4; class actions, 11.3.2.3, 11.7.2.3.3; debt harassment, 2.10; supplementary state claims, 11.8.3; state remedies, 16.7; UDAP remedies, 16.3.8
INJURIOUS FALSEHOOD: see DEFAMATION
INJURY IN FACT: failure to provide notice, 9.3.8
INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS: see WORKOUT AGREEMENTS
INSURANCE: bills and claims, see INSURANCE BILLS AND CLAIMS; professional liability, see PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
INSURANCE BILLS AND CLAIMS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2, Appx. E.1.1.4; subrogation claims, FDCPA application, 4.2.3.4
INTENTIONAL INTERFERENCE: see also TORT CLAIMS; tort actions, 15.4; contracts, 15.4.2; justification defense, 15.4.4; prospective economic relations, 15.4.3
INTEREST: prejudgment interest, FDCPA actions, 11.9.8
INTERFERENCE: see INTENTIONAL INTERFERENCE
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS): see also INCOME TAX; Form 1099-C, 1.4.3; tax collections, see TAX COLLECTIONS
INTERNET: see ON-LINE DATABASES; WEB RESOURCES
INTERPRETERS: collection contacts through, 5.6.5
INTERROGATORIES: see DISCOVERY
INTERSTATE DEBT COLLECTION: dunning letters, 3.2.7.6.3; long-arm jurisdiction, 11.2.2; service, 11.2.2.1; state law application, 16.2.3.3.6; UDAP application, 16.3.3.5
INTRUSION UPON SECLUSION: tort actions, 15.3.2
INVASION OF PRIVACY: see also PRIVACY ACT; abusive collection conduct; e-mail harassment, 14.3.4; generally, 15.3.1; holding up to false light, 15.3.3; intrusion upon seclusion, 15.3.2; public disclosure of private facts, 15.3.4; telephone harassment, 14.3.2; caller ID telephone services, 1.5, 14.3.3.4; fax machines, 1.5; FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; FDCPA protections, Ch. 5, 8.8; waiver, 5.9; overview, 15.3.1; privilege defense, 15.1.3; state law, 16.2.4.2, 16.8.3; third-party contacts, 5.6; tort actions, 15.3
INVESTMENT DEBTS: FDCPA application, 4.4.2
JOINDER: supplemental parties, 11.3.4.5, 11.2.5; supplemental state claims, 11.2.4
JUDGES: collection activities, restrictions, 16.5.3
JUDGMENTS: see also POSTJUDGMENT REMEDIES; collection on judgment, 1.4.11; default, see DEFAULT JUDGMENTS; enforcement by execution, see SEIZURE AND SALE; enforcement by garnishment, see GARNISHMENT; FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2; offers of judgment, 2.4.13; class actions, 11.7.2; full relief, 2.4.13.3; generally, 2.4.13.1; incomplete relief, 2.4.13.2; individual cases, 2.4.13.3; relief from judgment, 2.4.7.9; summary, see SUMMARY JUDGMENTS
JUDICIAL ESTOPPEL: bankruptcy situations, unscheduled claims, 13.3.3
JUDICIAL PROCEEDINGS: see LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
JUDICIAL PROCESS: see also LEGAL PROCESS; wrongful use; abuse of process, see ABUSE OF PROCESS; malicious prosecution, see MALICIOUS PROSECUTION
JURISDICTION: see also VENUE; bankruptcy court, 11.2.1, 13.2.5; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.7; CROA actions, 14.9.5; FDCPA violations, 11.2; concurrent jurisdiction, 11.2.1; long-arm jurisdiction, 11.2.2, 12.1; underlying debt counterclaim, 12.7; federal review of state court decisions, 12.5.4; long-arm jurisdiction, 11.2.2, 12.1; personal jurisdiction, 11.2.2; Rooker-Feldman doctrine, 12.5.4; supplemental jurisdiction, 11.2.4, 11.2.5, 12.7; TCPA actions, 14.3.2.6; tort actions, 11.2.2.3; “transaction of business” test, 11.2.2.2
JURY TRIALS: case law summaries, Appx. E.3.10; FDCPA actions, 2.5.6, 11.3.5; harassment actions, 2.4.7.5, 2.4.12; right to jury trial, 11.3.5; sample documents, Appx. F
JUSTIFICATION: defense of, 15.4.4
LANDLORDS: see also EVICTIONS; RENT; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.5; state collection laws, application, 16.2.3.1.1, 16.2.3.3.1
LANGUAGE: deceptive language, 7.2; obscene or abusive language, 6.3, Appx. E.2.3.1
LAW: see CASE LAW; PRACTICE OF LAW; STATE LAW
LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS: see also GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS; collection activities, restrictions, 16.5.3; FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.4, 4.3.5
LAWSUITS: see ACTIONS; LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
LAWYERS: see ATTORNEYS
LEASES: see LANDLORDS; RENT
LEAST SOPHISTICATED CONSUMER: see CONSUMERS
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS: see also ACTIONS; DISCOVERY; LEGAL PROCESS; PLEADINGS; VENUE; actions on the debt, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; bankruptcy, see BANKRUPTCY; debt harassment, avoiding, 2.3; deceptive threats, 7.2.10, 7.8.3, 7.13; FDCPA, application, 4.2.8, 4.6.4, 4.6.6, 4.6.8, 3.2.7, 5.6.3, 6.4.2; foreclosures, see FORECLOSURES; inconvenient forums, restrictions, 10.3; litigation immunity, 12.5.6, Appx. E.3.6.6; litigation privilege, 15.1.3.1, 15.3.1, 16.1.3, Appx. E.3.6.6; malicious, see MALICIOUS PROSECUTION; mass filings, 7.6.4; multiplying, sanctions, 12.8.3; SLAPP laws, 15.1.3.3; state proceedings, FDCPA application, 7.2.12.4; state remedies, application, 16.1.3; status of debt, misrepresentation, 7.4.4; third-party contacts, 3.2.7.3, 5.6.3, 5.6.4; time-barred suits, filing, 7.2.12.3, 8.3.6; unique FDCPA issues, 3.2.7; venue issues, see VENUE; verification notices, requirements, 4.6.4, 3.2.7.4, 9.3.5; verification period, during, 9.4.4; witness immunity, 12.5.7, Appx. E.3.6.6
LEGAL PROCESS: see also LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; PLEADINGS; concealment, 7.18; defined, 15.6.3.2; FDCPA, application, 4.6.4, 4.6.6; improper use, see ABUSE OF PROCESS; service, see SERVICE; simulating, 7.12, 7.16
LEGAL REPRESENTATION: see also ATTORNEYS; PRACTICE OF LAW; debtors; see also REPRESENTED DEBTORS; communications to attorney, FDCPA application, 4.6.6; effect, 2.3.7, 5.4, 5.8, 7.2.4, 16.2.4.3.3; self-representation, 2.12; verification of debt, 9.4.3; developing a plaintiffs’ practice, 2.1.6
LEGAL SERVICES ATTORNEYS: see also ATTORNEYS; FDCPA actions, fee awards, 11.9.1, 11.9.4; hourly rate, 11.9.6.3; fee-generating harassment cases, referral, 2.4.3, 2.6
LENDERS: see CREDITORS
LETTERS: see COLLECTION LETTERS
LIABILITY: attorneys; collection negligence, 15.8; FDCPA violations, 2.8, 4.2.3.2, 4.2.3.3, 4.2.3.4, 11.3.4.1, 11.3.4.3; credit reports, inaccurate, 14.6.2.1, 14.6.2.3; creditors, 2.8, 4.2.3.3, 4.3.2, 11.3.4.5; bankruptcy stay violations, 13.2.4; tort claims, 15.9; debt harassment; creditors, vicarious, 2.8, 4.3.2; employee violations, 4.2.2, 4.2.3.2; professional insurers, 2.7; deceptive forms, designers or suppliers, 11.3.4.4, 10.4.1; direct liability, 4.2.3.3; employees and officers, 4.2.3.2, 11.3.4.1; tort claims, 15.9; FDCPA violations, 4.2.2, 4.2.3, 11.3.4; insurers, 2.7, 11.3.4.4; owners of collection businesses, 4.2.3.2, 4.2.3.3, 11.3.4.2; tort claims, 15.9; repossessors, 11.3.4.4; state law violations, 16.2.3.3, 16.2.5.2; strict liability; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.1.3; FDCPA violations, 3.2.4; statutory damages, 11.5.3; TILA claims, debt collectors, 14.4.2; vicarious liability, see VICARIOUS LIABILITY
LIABILITY INSURANCE: see PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE
LIBEL: see DEFAMATION
LICENSING: collection agencies; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.5; FDCPA application, 7.8.5; state law, 16.2.1, 16.2.4.5; loan brokers, 16.8.4; unlicensed debt collection, 7.8.5, 16.2.4.5
LIENS: see SECURITY INTERESTS
LIMITATIONS: see STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
LISTS: accounts for sale, advertising restrictions, 6.5; allegedly defaulting debtors, publication, 5.6.5, 6.4
LITIGATION: see LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
LITIGATION IMMUNITY: defense of, 12.5.6; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6
LITIGATION PRIVILEGE: application to state remedies, 16.1.3; application to tort claims, 15.1.3.1, 15.3.1; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6
LOAN BROKERS: state law, 16.8.4
LOAN SHARKS: see FRINGE LENDERS AND BANKERS
LOCATION INFORMATION: case law summaries, Appx. E.2.1; credit reports, permissible use, 14.6.3; definition, 5.7; obtaining, FDCPA restrictions, 5.7, 5.8, 6.7.2; obtaining by deception, 1.5, 7.13; postcard use, FDCPA restrictions, 8.8; services, see SKIP TRACING
LODESTAR FORMULA: attorney fee awards, application, 11.9.6; allowable hours, 11.9.6.2; downward adjustments, 11.9.6.4; generally, 11.9.6.1; hourly rate, 11.9.6.3; upward adjustments, 11.9.6.5
MAIL FRAUD: postal laws, 14.1; RICO violations, 14.5
MAILING: unordered merchandise, prohibition, 14.2
MAILING SERVICES: debt collector status, 4.2.3.4, 10.7.2, Appx. E.1.2.2.4
MAJOR DEBT COLLECTORS: CFPB supervision, 3.4.2.5
MALICE: see also BAD FAITH; defamation suits, necessity, 15.5; evidence of, 15.6.2.4
MALICIOUS DEFENSE: tort of, 15.6.1
MALICIOUS PROSECUTION: see also CRIMINAL PROSECUTION; abuse of process distinguished, 15.6.1, 15.6.3.1; abusive collection conduct, tort actions, 15.6.2; elements; institution of proceedings, 15.6.2.2; lack of probable cause, 15.6.2.3; malice or improper purpose, 15.6.2.4; summary of elements, 15.6.2.1; termination in favor, 15.6.2.5; examples in collection context, 15.6.2.6; privilege defense, availability, 15.1.3.1; SLAPP laws, 15.1.3.3
MANDATORY ARBITRATION CLAUSES: attorneys, enforcement, 2.4.8.5; arbitrator bias, 1.4.10; consumers’ claims, 1.4.10, 2.4.8; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.5; class arbitration, 2.4.8.13; disadvantages, 2.4.8.1; enforceability of clause, 2.4.8.2–2.4.8.11; punitive damages, 2.4.8.12; debt buyers, enforcement, 2.4.8.4; debt collectors, enforcement, 2.4.8.2, 2.4.8.5; evidentiary burden, 2.4.8.3; NAF, ceasing operations, 1.4.10, 2.4.8.9; waiver by creditor, 2.4.8.6, 2.4.8.7
MARITAL PROPERTY: divorce settlements, FDCPA application, 4.4.2.3
MARSHALS: see also LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS; FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.4
MATERIALITY: element of deception claim, 7.2.7
MEDIATION: see MANDATORY ARBITRATION
MEDICAL DEBTS: FDCPA, application, 4.3.10.5
MEDICAL EVIDENCE: see also EXPERT WITNESSES; debt harassment actions, 2.4.12, 2.5.3
MENTAL ANGUISH: see EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
MESSAGES: see VOICEMAIL MESSAGES
MISREPRESENTATION: see DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES
MISTAKES: see ERRORS
MOBILE DEVICES: see CELLULAR PHONES
MORTGAGE FORECLOSURES: see FORECLOSURES
MORTGAGE SERVICING COMPANIES: see SERVICING COMPANIES
NAMES: aliases, see ALIASES; false names, see FALSE NAMES
NATIONAL ARBITRATION FORUM (NAF): ceasing of operations, effect, 1.4.10, 2.4.8.9
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONSUMER ADVOCATES (NACA): directory, 1.2; joining, benefits, 2.4.7.6
NATIONAL AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE ASSOCIATION (NACHA): electronic transfer rules, 14.7.2; re-presentment of checks, 14.7.5
NATIONAL BANKS: state claims, application, 16.1.2; tort claims, 15.1.2.2
NATIONAL CONSUMER LAW CENTER (NCLC): fair debt collection treatise, 1.1.1.2; online resources, 1.1.1.3; training and conferences, 1.1.3
NEGLIGENCE: see also TORT CLAIMS; attorneys, collection activities, 15.8; debt collection torts, 15.7.4; FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; infliction of emotional distress, 15.2.5
NEGOTIATION: see DEBT SETTLEMENT
NEIGHBORS: see THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS
NONCONSUMERS: FDCPA, application, 4.5
NONDEBTORS: see THIRD PARTY CONTACTS
NONTRADER RULE: defamation actions, application, 15.5
NOTICE: collection contacts; identification, 7.14; invocation of right to stop, 5.10.2; notice of right to stop,5.10.4, 9.3.6.2.2; subsequent collection agencies, 5.10.3; credit reports, inaccuracies, 14.6.2.3.1; emotional distress claims, 2.5.2.1; exempt bank accounts, 2.3.3; FDCPA notices; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.9; debt collectors, 7.14; lawyers, 3.2.7.4; injury in fact, 9.3.8; NSF fees, electronic collection, 14.7.4; verification of debt, see VERIFICATION NOTICES
NUMBER ID TELEPHONE SERVICES: see CALLER ID TELEPHONE SERVICES
OFFERS OF JUDGMENT: attorney fees, 2.4.13.4; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.3; class actions, 11.7.4.2; filing, 2.4.13.5; full relief, 2.4.13.3; incomplete relief, 2.4.13.2; individual cases, 2.4.13.3; other issues, 2.4.13.5; overview, 2.4.13.1
OFFICERS: see CORPORATE OFFICERS
ONLINE DATABASES: see also WEB RESOURCES; NCLC publications, 1.1.1.2, 1.1.1.3; use to establish false suit threats, 7.2.10.2.2
OPEN-END CREDIT PLANS: see CREDIT CARDS
OPPRESSIVE CONDUCT: see ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT
PARENTS: see also THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS; collection contacts with, 5.6.3; leaving messages, 5.6.6
PARTIES: see also THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS; FDCPA actions; defendants, 11.3.4; plaintiffs, 11.3.3; supplemental jurisdiction, 11.3.4.5, 11.2.5
PARTNERSHIPS: FDCPA liability, 11.3.4.2, 11.3.4.3
PENALTIES: see FINES
PENDENT CLAIMS: see SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIMS
PERSONAL INVESTMENTS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2
PERSONS: see CONSUMERS; NON-CONSUMERS
PLAINTIFFS: FDCPA actions, 11.3.3
PLEADINGS: see also LEGAL PROCEEDINGS; LEGAL PROCESS; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.8; deceptive, 7.2.12.4; FDCPA, application, 4.6.8, 3.2.7.4; notice exemption, 7.14.1; FDCPA claims, 4.1; defamation,15.5.6; drafting, 2.4.7; avoiding dismissal, 2.4.7.4; choice of federal or state court, 2.4.7.2; collector defenses, 2.4.7.9; proper service, 2.4.7.8; sample complaints, 2.4.7.7, Appx. F; specificity, 2.4.7.3; state claims, importance, 2.4.7.1; structuring the case, 2.4.7.5; filing date, 12.3.7; online resources, 1.1.1.3, Appx. F; trial pleadings, see JURY TRIALS; verification notices, requirement, 4.6.4, 3.2.7.4, 3.2.7.5
POSTAL LAWS: unordered merchandise, 14.2; violations, 14.1
POSTCARDS: see also ENVELOPES; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5.5; FDCPA restrictions, 8.8
POSTDATED CHECKS: accepting, restrictions, 8.5
POSTJUDGMENT REMEDIES: see also GARNISHMENT; SEIZURE AND SALE; collection contacts, FDCPA exemption, 3.2.7.3, 5.6.4; harassment judgments, 2.7
PRACTICE AIDS: see also CASE LAW; RESEARCH AIDS; attorney fees; generally, see ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; preparing for fee application, 11.9.9; class actions, 11.7.1; offers of judgment, 11.7.4.2; collection attorneys, 3.2.7; continuing education, 1.1.3; debt collection on the web, Appx. H; debt collector abbreviations, Appx. G; discovery, see DISCOVERY; FDCPA Case Connector, 1.1.1.4; harassment cases, case selection, 2.1.5; harassment cases, interview strategies; initial interview, 2.1; NCLC listservs, 1.1.4; NCLC online resources, 1.1.1.3, Appx. F; NCLC treatise, 1.1.1.2; pleadings, see PLEADINGS; primary sources, Appx. F; sample trial documents, Appx. F; settlements, fee negotiations, 11.9.3.2; stop contact requests, 2.3.7; web resources, see WEB RESOURCES
PRACTICE OF LAW: see also ATTORNEYS; specialization in fair debt collection law,; developing a plaintiffs’ practice, 2.1.6; NACA membership, 2.4.7.6; training and conferences, 1.1.3; unauthorized practice; attorneys, enabling, 16.5.3; collection agencies, 16.5.2; creditors, 16.5.1; injunctive relief, 16.7; remedies, 16.5.5.1; unethical practice by lawyers, 3.2.7.6; debt collection for others, 16.5.3; debt collection of own fees, 16.5.4; remedies, 16.5.5.2
PREAUTHORIZED PAYMENTS: see ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFERS; REMOTELY CREATED CHECKS (RCCs)
PRECEDENTS: see CASE LAW
PREEMPTION: FDCPA by other federal laws, 11.11.3, 13.7; federal claims by Bankruptcy Code, 13.7, 16.1.2; FTC formal advisory opinion, 11.11.1; state law by Bankruptcy Code, 13.7.4; state law by FCRA, 14.6.4, 16.1.2, 16.2.4.2.2; state law by FDCPA, 11.11.1, 16.1.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.7.4; state law by other federal laws, 16.1.2; tort claims by FDCPA, 11.11.1, 15.1.2.1; tort claims by federal banking laws, 15.1.2.2; tort claims by Higher Education Act, 15.1.2.2; tort claims by state debt collection laws, 15.1.2.1
PRERECORDED VOICE MESSAGES: see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES
PRINTING SERVICES: debt collector status, 4.1, 10.7.1, Appx. E.1.2.2.4
PRIVACY: see INVASION OF PRIVACY
PRIVATE CAUSE OF ACTION: see ACTIONS; FDCPA ACTIONS
PRIVATE TAX COLLECTIONS: see TAX COLLECTIONS
PRIVILEGE: defense of; case summaries, Appx. E.3.6.6; common interest privilege, 15.1.3.2; defamation actions, 15.5.5; litigation privilege, 15.1.3.1, 16.1.3
PRIVITY OF CONTRACT: negligence actions, application, 15.8
PRIZES: see CONTESTS
PROCESS: see LEGAL PROCESS
PROCESS SERVERS: FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.5, Appx. E.1.2.3.4
PRODUCTION OF DOCUMENTS: see DISCOVERY
PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE: consumer harassment claims, coverage, 2.7, 11.3.4.4
PROOF: see BURDEN OF PROOF
PROSECUTION: see CRIMINAL PROSECUTION; MALICIOUS PROSECUTION
PUBLIC DISCLOSURE: see also DISCLOSURE; PUBLICATION; indebtedness by collectors, 6.4, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.6.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; private facts, tort action, 15.3.4
PUBLIC OFFICIALS: see GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
PUBLICATION: consumers’ indebtedness, 6.4, 14.6.6.1; shame lists, 5.6.5, 6.4.2, 14.6.1; private facts, tort action, 15.3.4
PUNITIVE DAMAGES: see DAMAGES, PUNITIVE
RACKETEERING INFLUENCED AND CORRUPT ORGANIZATIONS ACT: see RICO ACTIONS
REAFFIRMATION AGREEMENTS: bankruptcy situations, 13.2.1, 13.2.6
RECORDS: collection contacts, use as evidence, 2.4.5; debt collectors, see under DEBT COLLECTORS; discovery, see DISCOVERY
RECOUPMENT CLAIMS: FDCPA violations, 12.3.8
REFINANCING: FDCPA, application, 4.2.4
REINVESTIGATIONS: disputed debts; notice of dispute, 14.6.2.3.1; reasonable investigations, 14.6.2.3.2; time limits, 14.6.2.3.3
RELATIVES: see CHILDREN; PARENTS; SPOUSES; THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS
REMOTELY CREATED CHECKS (RCCs): applicable law, 14.7.1; FTC Telemarketing Sales Rule, 14.7.2; UCC, 14.7.2; NSF fees, 14.7.4; remedies, 14.7.2; re-presentment, 14.7.5
RENT: see also EVICTIONS; LANDLORDS; FDCPA coverage, 4.2.6.4, 4.4.2.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.1.1.2; state collection laws, application, 16.2.3.1.1, 16.2.3.3.1
REPAYMENT PLANS: see WORKOUT AGREEMENTS
REPOSSESSIONS: FDCPA, application, 4.1, 4.2.6.2, 11.3.4.4, Appx. E.1.2.2.2; state debt collection statutes, application, 16.2.3.3.4; tort claims, 15.7; trespass, 15.7.2; unfair practices, 8.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5.4.2; verification notices, provision, 9.3.5
REPRESENTED DEBTORS: see also LEGAL REPRESENTATION; collection contacts, 2.3.7, 5.4, 5.8, 16.2.4.3.3, Appx. E.2.2.2; communications to attorney, 4.6.6; verification of debt, 9.4.3
REPUTATION: state law protections, 16.2.4.2.1
REQUESTS FOR ADMISSIONS: see DISCOVERY
RES JUDICATA: case law summaries, Appx. E.3.11; FDCPA claims, 12.5.3
RESEARCH AIDS: see also CASE LAW; PRACTICE AIDS; FDCPA, 3.4, Appx. E; NCLC resources, 1.1.1.2, 1.1.1.3; online, see WEB RESOURCES
RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES: see LANDLORDS
RICO ACTIONS: advantages and disadvantages, 14.5.1; extortionate debt collection methods, 14.5.4; mail or wire fraud, 14.1, 14.5.2; qualifying conduct, 14.5.2; state racketeering statutes, 14.5.5; substantive prohibitions, 14.5.3
ROBOCALLS: see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT
ROOKER-FELDMAN DOCTRINE: federal review of state court decisions, 12.5.4; case summaries, Appx. E.3.7.7
SALE OF DEBTS: see also DEBT BUYERS; SEIZURE AND SALE; advertising restrictions, 6.5; age of debt, 1.3.4.4; amount and types sold, 1.3.4.2; average price, 1.3.4.3; false representation, 7.15; false threats, 7.9; FDCPA, application, 4.2.4, 4.3.9, 4.3.10; fraud or identity theft, arising from, 14.6.4
SATISFACTION AGREEMENTS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2
SCAMS: consumer locating services, 1.3.7, 1.5; credit counseling, 1.3.9; debt settlement, 1.3.9
SECLUSION: intrusion upon right, 15.3.2
SECURITIZATION: identity theft debt, 14.6.4
SECURITY INTERESTS: enforcement, debt collection status, 4.2.6.1, 4.4.2.2
SEIZURE AND SALE: see also ATTACHMENT; deceptive threats, 7.7; exempt property, see EXEMPT PROPERTY
SELF-HELP REMEDIES: see also SELF-HELP RIGHTS; nonjudicial foreclosure, unfair practices, 8.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5.4.1; repossession, unfair practices, 8.7; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5.4.2
SELF-HELP RIGHTS: see also SELF-HELP REMEDIES; multiple debts, direction of payments, 10.2; reason for, 5.1; stopping collection contacts, 5.10.2; verification of debt, 9.4
SERVICE: proper service of process, 2.4.7.8; out-of-state collectors, 11.2.1
SERVICEMEMBERS: as consumers, 1.3.1.7
SERVICER ACT: determination of payments and charges, 9.2
SERVICING COMPANIES: deceptive foreclosure practices, 7.2.12.5; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.3, 4.3.1, 4.3.8, 4.3.9, 4.3.10.1, 4.3.10.3; debt collector status, 4.2.3.1; state law, application, 16.2.3.3.8
SETTLEMENT: debt settlement, see DEBT SETTLEMENT; deceptive offers, 7.2.12.2; FDCPA actions; attorney fees, 2.9, 11.9.3; class actions, 11.7.5; confidentiality clauses, 2.5.2.3; considerations, 2.4.10, 2.7; offers of judgment, 2.4.13, 11.7.4.2; underlying debt, 2.5.2.3; incomplete relief offers, 2.4.13.2; full relief offers, 2.4.13.3; offers of settlement; class actions, 11.7.4.2; individual actions, 2.4.13
SHAME LISTS: publication, 5.6.5, 6.4.2 14.6.1
SHERIFFS: see also LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS; FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.4, 4.3.5
SHOPLIFTING CLAIMS: FDCPA, application 4.4.2.3; case summaries, Appx. E.1.1.5.2.3
SKIP TRACING: see also LOCATION INFORMATION; overview, 1.3.7; ruses, 1.3.7, 1.5
SLANDER: see DEFAMATION
SLAPP SUITS: see STRATEGIC LAWSUITS AGAINST PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (SLAPP)
SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY: Bankruptcy Code, abrogation, 13.2.4; government officials, 12.5.5
SPAM: see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT
SPOUSES: see also CONSUMERS; THIRD PARTY CONTACTS; collection contacts with, 5.6.3; family expense statutes, collections under, 14.8; FDCPA application, 4.5; privilege, 15.1.3.2
STANDARDS: abusive collection practices; CFPB, 16.3.7; state, 16.2.1; collection activities and verification notice, 9.3.7.8; confusion, 9.3.7.8.4; contradiction, 9.3.7.8.3; deception, 9.3.7.8.4; effective communication, 9.3.7.8.1; obscuring or overshadowing, 9.3.7.8.2; collection agencies, licensing, 16.2.1; deceptive conduct, 7.2, 16.3.7; FCRA accuracy, 14.6.2.1; harassment, 6.1; case summaries, Appx. E.2.3.4; impermissible collection conduct, 15.2.4; least sophisticated consumer, 3.2.1, 7.2.4, 7.8.2; unconscionability, 8.2; unfairness, 8.2, 16.3.7; unreasonable collection conduct, 15.2.4, 15.3.1
STANDING: see also PARTIES; attorney fee petitions, 11.9.4; case summaries, Appx. E.1.4; FDCPA actions, 11.3.3, 11.10; bankruptcy, after, 13.3.2.1; contacts at inconvenient times/places, 11.10.7; contacts with represented debtor, 11.10.9; failure to identify as collector, 11.10.5.3; harassment, oppression, and abuse, 11.10.10; lack of notice, 11.10.6; misstatements to CRAs, 11.10.5.2; overstating claims, 11.10.5.1; third party contacts, 11.10.8; unfair collection methods, 11.10.11; venue abuse, 11.10.12; federal, 11.10.1, 11.10.2; post-Spokeo, 11.10.3; TCPA claims, 14.3.2.6
STATE AGENCIES: see also GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS; collection complaints to, 2.3.5, 2.10; governmental immunity, 16.1.4; licensing agencies, see STATE LICENSING AGENCIES
STATE LAW: see also CASE LAW; STATE REMEDIES; artificial voice messages, 16.8.5; autodialing systems, 106.8.5; bona fide error, 12.2.3; collection agencies, licensing, 16.2.1; collection contacts, right to stop, 5.10.4; collection lawsuits, see ACTIONS ON THE DEBT; credit repair laws, see CREDIT REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS STATUTES (STATE); debt collection statutes; see also STATE REMEDIES; abusive conduct, 16.2.4.3; bankruptcy filings, claims re violations, 13.3; benefits, 16.1.1; constitutional validity, 16.2.2; general standards, 16.2.4.1; history, 1.2; mortgage foreclosures, application, 16.2.3.1.4, 16.2.3.3.8; preemption by, 15.1.2.1; preemption of, 16.1.2; privacy protections, 16.2.4.2; protections, 16.2.4; remedies, 16.2.5; scope, 16.2.3; summary, Appx. D; UDAP remedies, see UDAP REMEDIES; unfair and deceptive activities, 16.2.4.4; utility company disputes, application, 16.1.5; violation as UDAP violation, 16.3.6; debt collection, other limitations, 16.8; debt collectors, true name, determination, 7.17; FCRA, preemption, 16.2.4.2.2; FDCPA; exemptions, 11.11.2; generally, 3.2.2; preemption, 11.11.1, 16.1.2; federal preemption, see PREEMPTION; loan broker laws, 16.8.4; long-arm statutes, 11.2.2; mail fraud, 14.1; mistake of law, 12.2.3; privacy laws, 16.8.3; RICO statutes, 14.5.5; supplementary claims, see SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIMS; telemarketing, 16.8.5; UDAP, see UDAP REMEDIES; usury laws, 16.8.2
STATE LICENSING AGENCIES: collection agencies, 16.2.1
STATE OFFICIALS: see GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS
STATE REMEDIES: see also HARASSMENT ACTIONS; STATE LAW; SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIMS; TORT CLAIMS; bankruptcy, preemption, 13.7.4; benefits, 16.1.1; collection contacts, stopping, 5.10.4; constitutional validity, 16.2.2; criminal prosecution, 16.6; damages, 16.2.5.2; FDCPA statutory damages, relationship, 11.5.7; federal preemption, see PREEMPTION; generally, 16.2.1, 16.2.5; importance of state claims, 2.4.7.1; injunctive relief, 11.8.3, 16.7; litigation privilege, application, 16.1.3; prohibited collection activities, 16.2.1, 16.2.5; supplemental jurisdiction, 11.2.4; UDAP, see UDAP REMEDIES; utility collections, special issues, 16.1.5
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS: actions on the debt,7.2.12.3.2; case law summaries, Appx. E.3.5; CROA, 14.9.5; ECOA, 14.8; FDCPA, 12.3; commencement of period, 12.3.3; counting of period, 12.3.6, 12.3.7; discovery rule, 12.3.2; generally, 12.3.1; recoupment claims, 12.3.8; series of violations, 12.3.4; tolling, 12.3.4; filing of time-barred suit, 7.2.12.3, 15.6.3; case summaries, Appx. E.2.4.17, Appx. E.2.5.8; TCPA, 14.3.2.7.4
STATUTORY DAMAGES: see DAMAGES, STATUTORY
STATUTORY FEE AWARDS: see also ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS; tax liability, 2.1.4
STAY OF PROCEEDINGS: debt collection, bankruptcy filing, 13.2.4; violation of stay, 13.2.4, 13.7.2
STOP CONTACT: right to stop, 5.10, Appx. E.2.2.5; demand letters, 2.3.2, 2.4.7.6; notice of right, 5.10.4, 9.3.6.2.2; state rights, 5.10.4
STRATEGIC LAWSUITS AGAINST PUBLIC PARTICIPATION (SLAPP): anti-SLAPP statutes, 15.1.3.3
STRESS: see EMOTIONAL DISTRESS
STRICT LIABILITY: see LIABILITY
STUDENT LOANS: FDCPA application, 4.4.2.2, Appx. E.1.1.5.1.2; guarantee agencies, debt collector status, 4.2.3.4, 4.3.8; third-party contacts, 5.6
SUBSIDIARIES: see CORPORATE AFFILIATES
SUITS: see ACTIONS; LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
SUMMARY JUDGMENT: harassment actions, 2.4.11; statutory damages awards, 11.5.1
SUMMONS: see PLEADINGS
SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIMS: class statutory damages, 11.7.3.3; FDCPA violations; parties, 11.3.4.5, 11.2.5; state claims, 11.2.4; injunctive relief, 11.8.3; jurisdiction, 11.2.4, 11.2.5; punitive damages, 11.6.2
SUPPORT: see CHILD SUPPORT
SURVEY EVIDENCE: deception, use to establish, 2.5.7, 7.2.8; expert alternative, 2.4.14.3; pitfalls, 2.4.14; cost, 2.4.14.1; rejection, 2.4.14.2
TAPE RECORDINGS: see also TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; telephone conversations, 2.4.1, 2.4.9.3
TAX COLLECTIONS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.3, 14.10; case summaries, Appx. E.1.1.5.2.1; private collection agencies, 14.10
TAX LIABILITY: attorney fee awards, 2.1.4; charge-offs, 1.4.4.2; retirement of debt, 1.4.4.2, 2.1.4, 2.5.2.3
TELEGRAMS: case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.7; collect fees, restrictions, 8.6
TELEMARKETERS: see also TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; remotely created checks, 14.7.2; state law, 16.8.5; TCPA restrictions, 14.3.2.1
TELEPHONE CALLS: see also COLLECTION CONTACTS; TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; anonymous calls, restrictions, 6.7; aliases, 6.7.3; artificial voice messages, see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES; autodialed, see AUTOMATED DIALING SYSTEMS; caller ID services, see CALLER ID TELEPHONE SERVICES; cell phones, see CELLULAR PHONES; collect calls, restrictions, 8.6; collection contacts, 5.6.6; computer-assisted dunning, 1.5, 14.3.2; disclosure requirements, 5.6.6, 6.7, 7.14.1, 7.14.2, 14.3.3.3; electronic transfers initiated by, 14.7.2; harassing calls, see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; long distance charges, restrictions, 8.6; prerecorded calls, see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES; preview dialing, 14.3.2.3; repeated calls, see TELEPHONE HARASSMENT; requests by collectors during verification period, 9.3.7.5; tape recording, 2.4.1, 2.4.9.3; TCPA regulation, see TELEPHONE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (TCPA); voicemail messages, see VOICEMAIL MESSAGES
TELEPHONE CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT (TCPA): cell phone call restrictions, 5.3.7, 14.3.2.1; burden of proof, 14.3.2.5; exceptions, 14.3.2.4; scope of restrictions, 14.3.2.2; debt collection, application, 14.3.2.1; non-debtors, application, 14.3.2.6; overview, 14.3.2.1; remedies, 14.3.2.6; statute of limitations, 14.3.2.7.4
TELEPHONE HARASSMENT: see also ABUSIVE COLLECTION CONDUCT; COLLECTION CONTACTS; HARASSMENT ACTIONS; artificial voice calls, 14.3.2; autodialer systems, 1.5, 14.3.2; caller ID technology, 1.5, 14.3.3; CAN SPAM Act, 14.3.4; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.3.2; cell phones, see CELLULAR PHONES; complaints regarding, 2.3.5; criminal statutes, 14.3.1; electronic messaging, 14.3.4; FCC regulation, 14.3.4; FDCPA prohibition, 6.1, 6.6; inconvenient time or place, 5.3; non-debtors, 14.3.2.6; repeated calls, 6.1, 6.6; state law, 16.2.4.3.1; tape recording, 2.4.1; delayed production of recordings, 2.4.9.3; TCPA protections, 14.3.2; third parties, 5.6.2; tort claims, 15.3.2; Truth in Caller ID Act, 14.3.3.2
TENANCIES: see LANDLORDS; RENT
TEXT MESSAGES: see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES
THIRD-PARTY CONTACTS: see also COLLECTION CONTACTS; case summaries, Appx. E.2.2.4; consumer consent, 5.9; debt collection purpose, disclosure, 5.6.6, 5.6.8, 7.14.2; FDCPA restrictions, 3.2.7.3, 4.5, 4.6.4, 5.6; harassment, 6.1; telephone harassment, 14.3.2.6; identity disclosure, 5.6.6, 5.6.8, 7.14.2; judicial authorization, 5.6.4; legal proceedings, 3.2.7.3; location information, obtaining from, 5.7; messages for debtors, restrictions, 5.6.2, 5.6.6, 7.14.1, 8.6; state law protections, 16.2.3.4, 16.2.4.2.4, 16.2.4.4.7; TCPA, application, 14.3.2.6
THREATS: see also ABUSIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; credit reporting, 7.13, 9.3.7.4, 14.6.6.3; false information, 7.11; deceptive threats; collection attorneys, by, 3.2.7.6.2; collection suits, 3.2.7.6.2, 7.2.10, 7.2.12.3, 7.8.3, Appx. E.2.4.2; credit reporting, 7.11, 14.6.6.3; foreclosure threats, 8.7; least sophisticated consumer standard, 7.8.2; other threats, 7.2.11, Appx. E.2.4.3; repossession threats, 8.7; state law violations, 16.2.4.3.2, 16.2.4.4.3; transfer of debt, consequences, 7.9; unintended or unlawful actions, 7.7, 7.8; disguised threats, 7.2.10.3; extortion, 15.7.6; FDCPA violations, 6.1, 6.2, 7.2.10, 7.2.11; foreclosure, unfair practices, 8.7; illegal actions, 7.8.6; repossession, unfair practices, 8.7; state law violations, 16.2.4.3.2, 16.2.4.4.3; third-party contacts, 5.6.8; verification notice, contradicting or confusing, 9.3.7.3, 9.3.7.4
TIME: debt collection, restrictions, 5.3
TORT CLAIMS: see also HARASSMENT ACTIONS; abuse of process, see ABUSE OF PROCESS; abusive collection conduct, 6.1, Ch. 9; tax collections, 14.10; actionable conduct, 15.2.4, 15.3.1; arbitration clauses, application, 2.4.8.8; assault, see ASSAULT; attorney conduct, 15.8; bankruptcy context, 15.1.2.2; battery, see BATTERY; civil conspiracy, 15.7.5; constitutional torts, 14.11; conversion, see CONVERSION; creditor liability, 15.9; defamation, see DEFAMATION; emotional distress, see EMOTIONAL DISTRESS; extortion, see EXTORTION; false arrest, see FALSE ARREST OR IMPRISONMENT; false imprisonment, see FALSE ARREST OR IMPRISONMENT; FCRA limited immunity, 15.1.4; FDCPA; application, 4.4.2.3, Appx. E.1.1.4; preemption, 11.11.1, 15.1.2.1; fraud, see FRAUD; generally, 15.1; government entities, against, 15.7.8; identity theft, 15.1.5; intentional interference, see INTENTIONAL INTERFERENCE; invasion of privacy, see INVASION OF PRIVACY; libel, see DEFAMATION; long-arm jurisdiction, 11.2.2.3; malicious defense, 15.6.1; malicious prosecution, see MALICIOUS PROSECUTION; misrepresentations, 15.7.5; negligence, see NEGLIGENCE; nuisance, see NUISANCE; other torts, 15.7.7; overview, 15.1.1; preemption; Bankruptcy Code, 15.1.2.2; FDCPA, 11.11.1, 15.1.2.1; federal banking laws, 15.1.2.2; Higher Education Act, 15.1.2.2; privilege defense, 15.1.3; punitive damages, 2.6.1; slander, see DEFAMATION; slander of title, 15.7.3; state or local officials, against, 4.11; trespass to chattels, 15.7.3; trespass to property, see TRESPASS; vicarious liability, 15.9
TRANSACTIONS: see CREDIT TRANSACTIONS
TRANSFER OF DEBTS: see SALE OF DEBTS
TRESPASS: tort claims, 15.7.2
TRIALS: see FDCPA ACTIONS; JURY TRIALS
TRUSTEES: collection contacts with, 5.6.3; estate trustees, see DECEDENT’S DEBTS; FDCPA, application, 4.2.6.3, 4.5; FDCPA, exclusion, 4.3.8, Appx. E.1.2.3.6
TRUTH IN CALLER ID ACT: prohibitions, 14.3.3.2
TRUTH IN LENDING ACT (TILA): creditor, definition, 14.9.2; disclosure requirements, 14.4; open-end credit disputes, 14.4.2; originator violations, collector liability, 14.4.2; statutory damages, 11.7.3.1
UCC: see UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE (UCC)
UDAP REMEDIES: see also STATE REMEDIES; damages, 16.3.8; debt collection statute violations, 16.3.6; deceptive activities, 16.3.4; FDCPA statutory damages, relationship, 11.5.7; FDCPA violations, 16.3.6; generally, 16.3.8; injunctive relief, 16.3.8, 16.7; interpretation, 16.3.2; liberal construction, 16.3.2; nature and advantages, 16.3.1; out-of-state residents, 16.3.3.1; per se violations, 16.3.6; preemption, 16.1.2; scope, 16.3.3; consumer transactions, 16.3.3.3; debt collection, 16.3.3.2; generally, 16.3.3.1; protected consumers, 16.3.3.5; state-by-state summary, 16.3.3.6; types of creditors and collectors, 16.3.3.4; unauthorized practice of law, 16.5.5; unfair or unconscionable activities, 16.3.5; unordered merchandise, 14.2; validity in debt collection context, 16.3.2
UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF LAW: see also PRACTICE OF LAW; attorneys, enabling, 16.5.3; collection agencies, 16.5.2; creditors, 16.5.1; injunctive relief, 16.7; remedies, 16.5.5.1
UNCONSCIONABLE PRACTICES: arbitration clauses, 2.4.8.10; collection practices, see UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES
UNFAIR OR UNCONSCIONABLE COLLECTION PRACTICES: see also DECEPTIVE COLLECTION PRACTICES; attorneys, 3.2.7.6.1; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.5; CFPB standards, 16.3.7; collecting more than owing, 8.4; communication charges, 8.6; concealing collection purpose, 8.6; described, 16.3.5; FDCPA concept, 3.2.7.6, Ch. 8; foreclosure, nonjudicial, 8.7; general prohibition, 8.2; illegal charges, 8.4; legal representation, see LEGAL REPRESENTATION; postdated checks, circumstances, 8.5; practices found not to be unfair, 8.3.7; prohibited methods, 8.3.6; repossession, unauthorized, 8.7; state prohibitions, 16.2.4.4; time-barred suits, 7.2.12, 8.3.6; UDAP remedies, see UDAP REMEDIES; unauthorized practice of law as, 16.5.5
UNIFORM COMMERCIAL CODE (UCC): remotely created checks, application, 14.7.2
UNSOLICITED MERCHANDISE: illegal attempts to collect for, 14.2
USURY: collection agency liability, 16.8.2
UTILITY BILLS: FDCPA, application, 4.4.2.2, Appx. E.1.1.5.1.1; state debt collection statutes, 16.8.1; special issues, 16.1.5
VALIDATION NOTICES: see VERIFICATION NOTICES
VENUE: see also JURISDICTION; abuse of process, 15.6.3; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.7, Appx. E.3.7.4; collection actions, 3.2.7.2, 10.3; FDCPA actions, 11.2.3; garnishment proceedings, 10.3.2; harassment actions, 2.4.7.2; improper, state law violations, 16.2.4.4.7; inconvenient forums, 10.3, 15.6.3; unfair practices, as UDAP violation, 15.3.5
VERIFICATION NOTICES: see also VERIFICATION OF DEBT; additional language, 9.3.6.2.1; amount of debt, disclosure, 9.3.6.4, 9.3.6.5; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.4.10; case law summaries, Appx. E.2.6; circumstances, 9.3.5; collection activities obscuring, 9.3.7, Appx. E.2.6.2; legal standards, 9.3.7.8.2; collection suits, 4.6.4, 3.2.7.4, 9.3.5; contents, 9.3.6; contradictions, 9.3.7.8.3; deception and confusion, 9.3.7.8.4; effectively conveying, 9.3.3, 9.3.7.8.1; legal standards, 9.3.7.8; incomplete, 9.3.6.1; misleading, 9.3.6.1, 9.3.6.5; oral disputes, 9.3.6.3; oral notice, 9.3.4, Appx. E.2.6.3; overview, 9.3.2; placement, 9.3.3; provision, 9.3.5; recommended notices, 9.3.6.2; consumer advocate recommendations, 9.3.6.2.2; court recommendations, 9.3.6.2.1; simplified rights notice, 9.3.6.2.2; state law, 16.2.4.4.5; time, 9.3.5; written notice, 9.3.5
VERIFICATION OF DEBT: see also VERIFICATION NOTICES; case summaries, Appx. E.2.6; collection activities during, 9.3.7, 9.4.4; consumer rights, 2.3.6, 9.2, 9.4; verification rights notice, see VERIFICATION NOTICES; credit reporting agencies, reporting to, 7.11, 9.4.2, 9.4.4, 14.6.6.2; fees, 9.4.3; oral dispute of debt, 9.3.6.3, 9.4.2; represented consumers, 9.4.3; sufficient information, 9.4.3; written requests, 9.3.6.3, 9.4.2
VETERANS: as consumers, 1.3.1.7
VICARIOUS LIABILITY: collection agencies, 2.8, 4.2.3.3; creditors, 2.8; tort claims, 15.9
VIOLENCE: see also CRIMINAL CONDUCT; FDCPA prohibition, 6.2
VOICEMAIL MESSAGES: see also TELEPHONE CALLS; artificial voice messages, see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES; caller identity, disclosure requirement, 5.6.6, 6.7.2; collection contacts, restrictions, 5.6.2, 5.6.6, 7.14.1, 8.6; location information, obtaining, 5.7; prerecorded messages, see ARTIFICIAL VOICE MESSAGES; TCPA restrictions, 14.3.2
WAGE GARNISHMENT: see also GARNISHMENT; excessive, remedies, 15.6.2, 15.6.3
WAIVER: FDCPA rights; generally, 3.2.3; inconvenient contact protections, 5.3.6; privacy protections, 5.9; venue rights, restriction, 10.3.2; telephone number, giving not waiver of harassment, 15.3.2
WEB RESOURCES: see also ONLINE DATABASES; debt collection on the web, Appx. H; false suit threats, use to establish, 7.2.10.2.2; FDCPA case law, 1.1.1.4, 3.4.3; harassment complaints, 2.3.2, 2.3.5; NACA directory, 1.2; NCLC listservs, 1.1.4; NCLC online searches, 1.1.1.2; NCLC resources, 1.1.4, 1.1.1.3, Appx. F
WIRE FRAUD: RICO claims, 14.5
WIRELESS DEVICES: see CELLULAR PHONES
WITNESSES: see also EVIDENCE; experts, see EXPERT WITNESSES; FDCPA, application, 12.5.6; litigation immunity, 12.5.6, Appx. E.3.6.6; pattern or practice evidence, 2.4.6
WORKOUT AGREEMENTS: proposing to stop harassment, 2.3.4; TILA disclosures, 14.4.1
WORKPLACES: see also EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIPS; collection contacts at; case summaries, Appx. E.2.2.3; FDCPA restrictions, 5.3.4, 5.5, 5.6.2; state law restrictions, 16.2.4.2.3; location information, obtaining, 5.7
WRITE-OFFS: see CHARGE-OFFS