Can a debt collector sue me if I don’t pay my debt?
Yes, a debt collector may sue you if you do not pay your debt in Tennessee. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) sets forth specific rights for those who are in debt. According to the act, debt collectors are allowed to sue debtors to collect the debt they are owed, as long as they comply with the FDCPA. In Tennessee, a debt collector may only take legal action against the debtor in the county where: 1) the debtor lives; 2) the transaction occurred; 3) the contract was executed; or 4) the judgment was entered. Debt collectors must also abide by the statute of limitations, which typically falls between 3 and 6 years depending on the type of debt. It is important to note that when a debt collector sues a debtor, the debtor must be notified of the lawsuit. This is usually done in the form of a summons. The debtor has the right to challenge the debt in court and must do so within a specific time period. It is also important to remember that debt collectors may not use unfair or unethical practices such as false statements, harassment, or threats when trying to collect a debt. If a debt collector does engage in these practices, then the debtor may be entitled to damages or other remedies. In short, a debt collector may sue a debtor in Tennessee if the debt is not settled. Debtors should be aware of their rights under the FDCPA, and contact an attorney if they feel the debt collector has violated the act.
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