Debt Collection Legal Center

Free legal resources to protect yourself against overdue accounts and collect on the debt you're owed.
Make Sure You Get Paid
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Don't just wait for the check to come in the mail. Answer a few simple questions and Rocket Lawyer will help you prevent delinquent payments, and collect any money you're owed.

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Demand Prompt Payment

Let them know you're serious about collecting with a Demand for Money Owed letter.
Get a Lawyer to Help You Collect

Save time and money, and collect overdue payments faster with an On Call attorney.
Useful Debt Collection Articles

Paying on Time - Five Ways to Encourage Customers to Pay You Promptly

Every business deals with the hassle of debt collection. And while it's hard to avoid the occasional delinquent debtor, you can reduce your risk of working for free. Check out these simple strategies and weed out the bad debtors before you do business with them.
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The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act - Important Debt Collection Rules

The FDCPA was enacted in 1978 to protect debtors from harassment at the hands of collection agencies. Learn what debt collectors can and cannot do when securing payment on your outstanding accounts.
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How to Place a Lien on a House or Other Personal Property

Sometimes, a debtor simply won't pay. This doesn't mean you're left out in the rain, however. Liens are the best legal way to assert rights over a debtor's property. Read up for useful information about how you can file a lien on a debtor's house or other personal property.
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Debt Collection Lawyers
Nicolette Mendenhall
Indianapolis, Indiana
Services: Document Review, Free Initial Consultation, General Consultation.
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Mark H. Davidson
Port Huron, Michigan
Services:
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Bonnie L. Canty
Deerfield Beach, Florida
Services: Credit Cards Accepted, Document Review, Free Initial Consultation, General Consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to collect debt from a delinquent customer or client?
It's best to be polite, but persistent. Contact the debtor via phone, letter, or email and remind them they haven't paid. Send professional Past Due letters. Be willing to work with them to resolve the debt, and hire a debt collection agency as a last resort.

Can I collect debt if the debtor has filed for bankruptcy?
No. Once a debtor has filed for bankruptcy, he or she has an "automatic stay" which stops businesses and collectors from attempting to secure debt payment.

How much do debt collectors charge?
Although it varies depending on the agency, a contingency fee of between 25% and 45% is typical. The percentage may be based on how old the debt is and how many times the debtor has been contacted.