The Predicament Of Debt Collection Lawsuits
If you've received a lawsuit notice from Forster & Garbus, LLP, you're probably filled with a mix of dread, confusion, and anxiety. Debt collection law firms like Forster & Garbus work to recover funds on behalf of creditors, such as banks and other financial institutions. These law firms aim to win cases for their clients, often employing high-pressure tactics that can result in debtors feeling overwhelmed or cornered. At The Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC, we focus on consumer protection and have extensive experience defending clients against aggressive debt collection practices, including lawsuits brought by firms like Forster & Garbus, LLP.
Forster & Garbus, LLP - Who Are They?
Forster & Garbus, LLP is a debt collection law firm situated in Commack, New York. They focus on handling cases for high-profile clients, including but not limited to Discover, Capital One, Barclays, Citibank, and Macy's. Notably, they have been engaged in the practice of not only collecting on behalf of these creditors but also acting as a consumer debt buyer. In this latter capacity, they acquire debts from original creditors at a reduced cost and then proceed to collect on these debts themselves. The firm also deals with defaulted student loans, partnering with entities like Navient, Sallie Mae, and the National Collegiate Fund.
Forster & Garbus, LLP Phone Number
(800) 245-9943
Forster & Garbus, LLP Address
2950 Express Dr S # 100, Islandia, NY 11749
CFPB's Actions Against Forster & Garbus, LLP
Forster & Garbus, LLP got into hot water with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) for filing what have been termed as "junk lawsuits." These lawsuits were often filed with inadequate evidence and documentation, mostly to pressure consumers into quick settlements. According to the CFPB, the law firm violated the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Consumer Financial Protection Act (CFPA) by employing deceptive practices.
CFPB's Lawsuit And Settlement
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) reached a settlement with Forster & Garbus over alleged illegal debt collection activities. The settlement imposes specific restrictions on the firm. Namely, Forster & Garbus would not be allowed to file any new lawsuits against consumers unless they possess explicit documentation proving the validity of the debt and confirm that an attorney has reviewed these documents. The firm was required to pay a $100,000 penalty.
Legal Framework: Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) And Consumer Financial Protection Act (CFPA)
The CFPB had filed a lawsuit against the firm in 2019, asserting that between 2014 and 2016, Forster & Garbus had violated several laws, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Consumer Financial Protection Act (CFPA). The FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from making false or misleading representations, while the CFPA forbids deceptive acts and practices. Specifically, the CFPB alleged that Forster & Garbus had filed over 99,000 debt-collection lawsuits with only a fraction backed by sufficient documentation. Moreover, the firm was accused of misleading consumers by implying that attorneys had meaningfully reviewed the cases before filing them.
Forster & Garbus, LLP Is Now Owned By Abrahamsen Gindin LLC
Forster & Garbus has undergone changes in ownership and is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Abrahamsen Gindin LLC, another law firm. While the parent company may have a range of specializations, the focus of Forster & Garbus remains on creditors' rights and debt collection.
Legal Implications: The Dark Side Of Delinquent Debt
When you have delinquent debt, it's not just about receiving constant calls or mail from debt collectors. Such debts can have a severe impact on your credit score and may lead to accruing additional fees and a significant amount of interest. Moreover, you can find yourself facing legal action from firms like Forster & Garbus, LLP, who focus on winning cases for their creditor clients.
How We Can Help You
We understand the nuances and tactics employed by law firms like Forster & Garbus, LLP. If you're faced with a lawsuit from them or any other aggressive creditors' law firm, we are equipped to advocate for you. In many instances, we've successfully negotiated to significantly reduce the amount owed by our clients and have also arranged manageable payment plans.
Our legal team has often achieved debt reductions of up to 80%, allowing clients to move forward with their lives without the burden of crippling debt. The benefit isn't just financial; the emotional relief from settling these matters cannot be overstated.
Moreover, our attorneys are skilled in consumer protection law and have a deep understanding of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Consumer Financial Protection Act, and other relevant state and federal laws. Our experience enables us to devise effective strategies to counter the claims made by debt collectors and creditors' law firms, potentially saving you a considerable amount of money and stress.
Take The First Step: Contact Us Today
If you've received a lawsuit or legal notice from Forster & Garbus, LLP, don't delay in seeking legal guidance. Call the Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC, at (888) 301-0584 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Once we know the particulars of your case, we can shoulder your legal burdens and begin the process of defending your consumer rights against aggressive debt collection practices.
Don't let debt lawsuits disrupt your life. With seasoned legal counsel on your side, you can navigate through this challenging time and look forward to a more secure financial future.