Your Dedicated Advocates Against Debt Collectors
- Nationwide Representation: No matter where you live in the US, we have the reach and resources to assist you.
- Deep Legal Expertise: We specialize in the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and state-specific consumer protection laws.
- Aggressive Defense: We don’t just manage debt; we fight back against unfair and abusive collection tactics.
- Proven Track Record: We have successfully helped thousands of consumers resolve utility debt issues and reclaim their financial freedom.
- Stop the Harassment: Hiring us sends a clear message to collectors to stop contacting you directly immediately.
Utility Debt Resolution Services
Are you being harassed by debt collectors over unpaid electricity, water, or gas bills? Utility debt can damage your credit score and lead to aggressive collection tactics. At Cannon Legal PLLC, we provide comprehensive legal representation to resolve these disputes. Our services include:
- Debt Validation: We force collection agencies to prove you actually owe the debt.
- Harassment Defense: We stop incessant calls and enforce your rights under federal law.
- Credit Dispute Resolution: We fight to remove inaccurate utility debt information from your credit report.
- Litigation Defense: If you are sued, we provide aggressive representation to protect your interests.
Common Questions About Utility Debt Collections
A lawyer can provide expert advice on your rights, help you navigate the collection process, and potentially represent you if your rights have been violated or if you are facing a lawsuit.
Yes, we can assist you at any stage of the debt collection process.
Generally, the statute of limitations for debt collection in Texas is four years from the date of last activity on the account.
- Yes, utility providers or their debt collectors can file a lawsuit to recover unpaid debts. It’s important to respond to any lawsuit promptly.
You have the right to dispute inaccurate information on your credit report with the credit bureaus.
The FDCPA is a federal law that protects consumers from abusive and deceptive debt collection practices nationwide, including those related to utility debt.
The TDCA is a Texas state law that regulates the actions of debt collectors, including those collecting utility debt, outlining what they can and cannot do.
Under the FDCPA and TDCA, you have the right to tell a debt collector to cease communication with you by sending a written request.
You should immediately dispute the debt in writing with the collection agency and request validation of the debt.
- You have rights under the FDCPA and TDCA that protect you from abusive and unfair collection practices.
You are protected by federal laws like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). These laws prohibit collectors from using abusive, unfair, or deceptive practices, such as threatening you, calling at unreasonable hours, or lying about the amount you owe.
Do not ignore it. You should immediately dispute the debt in writing. Cannon Legal PLLC can help you send a formal Debt Validation Letter, forcing the agency to provide proof that the debt is valid and accurate before they can continue collecting.
Yes. Every state has a “statute of limitations,” which is the deadline for a creditor to file a lawsuit against you. For example, in Texas, this period is generally four years. If the debt is older than the statute of limitations, they cannot legally sue you for it, though they may still try to collect.
Yes. While utility companies may not report monthly payments, they often report accounts that have gone into default or been sold to collection agencies. This can severely hurt your credit score. We can help you dispute inaccurate reporting with the credit bureaus.
Yes. Utility providers or third-party debt buyers can file a lawsuit to recover unpaid balances. If you receive court documents, it is critical to respond immediately to avoid a default judgment. Our firm can represent you in these proceedings.
Often, yes. Many states have their own consumer protection acts that work alongside federal law. For example, the Texas Debt Collection Act (TDCA) provides specific protections for Texas residents. We are well-versed in both federal and state-specific regulations to maximize your defense.
A lawyer levels the playing field. We understand the complex laws that debt collectors must follow. We can identify violations that might entitle you to compensation, handle all communication with the agency, and negotiate on your behalf to resolve the debt or have it dismissed.
Absolutely. We can step in at any stage of the process—whether you just received your first collection letter, are being harassed by phone calls, or have already been served with a lawsuit.