Attorney Letterhead: Implied Threat

[David A. Szwak]

FALSE REPRESENTATION THAT COMMUNICATION IS FROM AN ATTORNEY

A debt collection technique is to have large numbers of collection letters, with implicit or explicit threats of suit, sent under the name of an attorney. The courts have recognized that "A debt collection letter on an attorney's letterhead conveys authority and credibility." Crossley v. Lieberman, 868 F.2d 566, 570 (3d Cir. 1989). The clear implication of any attorney letter is a threat of suit.