Debt Collection

When Real Debt Collection Lawsuits Look Like Scams: The Problem with Pocket Filing in Minnesota

Imagine opening your mailbox to find a letter from a debt collector claiming you owe $2,000 for an old credit card debt. The document looks official. There’s a summons, a complaint, legal language about judgments and garnishment. But something’s off. There’s no court case number. You do what any reasonable person would do: you try … Read more

Most people sued for debt never get their day in court. We can fix that.

image showing methodology for matching cases to see impact of answer requirement.

When people get sued for debt, most can’t afford a lawyer. In many states, they also can’t simply show up to court to defend themselves. They have to file a formal written answer within tight deadlines, sometimes paying hundreds of dollars in filing fees to participate in their own case. Only then will the court … Read more

Could stronger wage garnishment protections mean fewer debt collection lawsuits?

bar chart showing fewer lawsuits in states with stronger wage garnishment protections

Debt collection lawsuits are surging. After years of pandemic-era decline, case filings are climbing back toward pre-pandemic levels across the country. Our recent analysis found that courts in eight states saw dramatic increases in debt collection filings in 2024, with some jurisdictions reporting their highest volume in years. The New York Times covered these findings … Read more