Can a debt collector threaten to garnish my wages?
It is illegal for a debt collector to threaten to garnish your wages in California, regardless of the type of debt. This is because there are specific laws in place that protect consumers from such threats. The California Consumer Debt Defense Law (CCDDL) protects consumers from unfair debt collection practices, including the threat to garnish wages. The law states that debt collectors cannot use false, deceptive, or misleading representations to collect a debt. Additionally, the CCDDL prohibits debt collectors from misrepresenting or exaggerating the amount of the debt or the consequences of not paying it. Under the law, a debt collector cannot threaten to garnish wages without first obtaining a court order. In order to garnish wages, the debt collector must file a lawsuit in the court and show that the debt is valid and the consumer is legally obligated to pay it. If the court agrees, then it can grant the debt collector permission to garnish wages in order to satisfy the debt. Therefore, if a debt collector threatens to garnish your wages, it is a violation of the Consumer Debt Defense Law, and you should contact an attorney immediately. The attorney can help you understand your rights and determine the best course of action.
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