What rights do consumers have in debt collection?

Consumers in California have certain rights when it comes to debt collection. These rights are protected by the Consumer Debt Defense Law. First, a consumer has the right to be informed of the debt. This includes the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor, and the source of the debt. The consumer also has the right to know how the debt was calculated, so that it can be verified. Second, a consumer has the right to dispute the debt. A creditor must provide the consumer with sufficient evidence of the debt, such as copies of bills, contracts, or other documents. The consumer may contest the debt if they believe it is inaccurate or invalid. Third, a consumer has the right to seek legal advice. If a consumer believes they are being treated unfairly, they may want to seek legal advice from an attorney. An attorney can help the consumer understand the debt collection process and can provide guidance on the best course of action. Finally, a consumer has the right to privacy. A creditor cannot contact the consumer outside of normal business hours or in a harassing manner. They cannot share the debt with anyone who does not have a legitimate business purpose for knowing about it. These are the rights that consumers have in debt collection in California. Consumers should be aware of their rights when dealing with creditors and should always seek legal advice if they feel their rights have been violated.

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