Financial Distress / Consumer Rights

Debt Collection

Consumers facing collection activities are often overwhelmed and uninformed as to the options. Whether it’s negotiating a fair settlement of a valid debt or defending against the harsh tactics of debt collectors, our attorneys have the experience to guide consumers through every step of the process.

We help protect consumers from inappropriate and illegal debt collection practices. Our attorneys know the ins and outs of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). These laws protect consumers from overzealous creditors and fraudulent activity. Not only do these laws  give consumers protection, these laws also give consumers a remedy. Consumers who have been mistreated by a debt collector may have a cause of action against the debt collector and be entitled to collect monetary damages. The earlier in the process we’re contacted, the more protection we can provide.

We also help consumers protect their credit reports from inaccurate or fraudulent entries. We have the tools and experience to work with the appropriate agencies to resolve most credit report issues.

Mortgage Modifications

Am I eligible? What will my new payment be? What does it cost?

We hear these questions, along with many others, all the time from homeowners seeking relief from the crippling effects of an unaffordable monthly mortgage obligation. To be frank, it is not an easy process. The procedures are complicated, the banks are struggling to keep up, and the government programs are hit and miss. Whether a homeowner is looking to modify through a government program or an in-house program, we can help. We have successfully modified mortgages for homeowners. The earlier we are involved in the process, the better chance we have of getting a mortgage modified.

Bankruptcy

The bankruptcy law is designed to give overwhelmed consumers a fresh start. Bankruptcy is not always the best option. We are committed to taking a practical approach resolving a client’s financial problems.

We help consumers determine if filing bankruptcy is the best choice given the circumstances. We examine all of the options and explore the advantages and disadvantages or each before making a decision. Whether the consumer ultimately files bankruptcy or decided to pursue another avenue, we have continuously found that our pre-filing advice saves consumers both time and money.

Foreclosures

If all other efforts to save the home have been exhausted, foreclosure may be the last step in the process. Foreclosure law in Minnesota is governed by statute. If the statute is not followed precisely, the foreclosure may not be effective.

We are often hired by banks to complete residential and commercial foreclosures, so our attorneys are well acquainted with the foreclosure statutes and all of the requirements a creditor must meet to effectively foreclose. This experience is tremendously useful when we work for consumers faced with foreclosure. In addition to making sure every homeowner thoroughly understand the foreclosure process, we actively protect the homeowner’s rights throughout the case.