FDCPA Applies Regardless of Validity of Debt

[David A. Szwak]

"The FDCPA is designed to protect consumers from unscrupulous collectors, regardless of the validity of the debt." Thomas v. Law Firm of Simpson & Cybak, Slip Copy, 2006 WestLaw 2037329 [U.S.D.C. N.D. Ill. 2006].

[David A. Szwak]

The validity of the underlying debt, i.e., whether the consumer owes the alleged obligation, is normally not relevant to the debt collector's liability for violation of the FDCPA. McCartney v. First City Bank, 970 F.2d 45 (5th Cir. 1992); Baker v. G.C. Services Corp., 677 F.2d 775 (9th Cir. 1982); Adams v. First Federal Credit Control, Inc., 1992 WestLaw 131121 (U.S.D.C. N.D. Ohio 1992).