Can I sue for damages or harassment for an unjust collections debt?

Asked in Los Angeles, CA - about 2 years

I was improperly charged $720 dollars by a dentist office about a year ago. that bill has since gone to a collection agency. The dentist keeps telling me they will reverse the charge and get it off my credit report but nothing has happened so far. Can i sue them to get the bill reversed and off my credit report. Would I be entitled to any other money for damages or harassment or something?

Attorney Answers (2)

Robert Harlan Stempler

Palm Springs Lawsuit / Dispute Attorney

Licensed in CA

1

0

Answered about 2 years ago. I would first put something in writing with the dentist. He or she has told you that they will reverse this false charge. Get them to put this in writing on their letterhead. If they do not, then you need to put it in writing in a letter by certified mail to them. Something such as, "This is to confirm our conversation on May x, 2011 in which you told me that the charge of $720 to my account was incorrect and that you intend to reverse it and withdraw the collection from the X debt collector. If this is not correct or if you are not authorized to reverse the charge, please contact me in writing within 10 days."

Again, please be sure to keep a copy of this letter with your proof of delivery by certified mail. My web site has several sample letters that you may want to use as guidelines to help you dispute this bill with any debt collector or with any credit reporting agency.

Robert Stempler (please see DISCLAIMER below)
www.StopCollectionHarassment.com

NOTICE: If you do not have a signed attorney-client fee agreement with the Consumer Law Office of Robert Stempler,... more

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Pamela Koslyn

Hollywood Business Attorney

Licensed in CA

0

Answered about 2 years ago. If you write to one of the credit bureau, they have 30 days to contact the creditor to verify the debt. This will force your dentist to acknowledge the error and it will be removed from your credit report.

If you haven't done so already, check your credit at www.annualcreditreport.com, and follow the instructions at the end of the report to dispute this entry. Send the letter by certified mail can prove their receipt, and make sure to keep a copy.

I'm only licensed in CA. Please note that this answer does not constitute legal advice, and should not be relied... more