Expert: Jason Barnette, Esq. - 8/24/2009

Question
I have a collection company listing a collection on my credit report. I have contacted them and the "client" (an apartment complex)they claim to collect for. The client has provided written notice to the collection agency to cease the collection as it is an invalid debt. I never owed them anything. Since receiving the letters the collection company has moved the account between "current/valid", "for cancellation", and "in research." They refuse to stop reporting it however. Is there a law that stipulates a timeline for them to cease after the debt has been proven invalid? What recourse do I have to compel them?
Thanks.

Answer
James:

You can dispute the collection tradeline directly through the credit reporting agencies.  I would send the aforesaid letter from the client as well.

If they verify the same, contact a consumer protection attorney.  If you're in Tennessee, feel free to contact us at Barnette Law Offices, LLC.  We handle a considerable amount of consumer protection litigation matters in the Nashville area and across the state.

Jason Barnette
Barnette Law Offices, LLC
1800 Hayes Street; Suite 122
Nashville, TN 37203
615-585-2245
info@barnettelawoffices.com