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Fugate Law

Fugate Law

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  • Who We Serve
  • Collection Scams
  • Bankruptcy
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Typical cases I handle

I represent Texas residents against collection scams, abusive collectors, situations where debts are not owed, or situations where debts are owed but too old to collect. I also handle Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases. Each is further explained below.

Scam Collectors

I specialize in tracking down and suing hard to locate debt collection scams. Most of my clients do not even realize until they call me that the collector is a scam. Most of the cases I handle involve the collection of stolen accounts, fake accounts, or accounts that have already been paid or are too old to sue upon. Most of the collectors that I sue are using false threats, fake names, non-existing addresses to illegally hide who and where they really are. Some even have fake law firm websites. Often it is hard to know you are being scammed. Many are polite and seem legitimate. If it was obvious they were a scam, no one would pay them!

The typical case begins when a collector falsely pretends to be a process server serving a non-existing lawsuit. The victim is then told to call a number to prevent being served with a lawsuit. The collector then lies about who they are and what can happen if money is not immediately paid. Sometimes they even falsely threaten arrest or prosecution. 

If you live in Texas and are receiving calls like these please call me before you are further victimized by a financial scam by paying them. Even if you owe the debt, you have rights. Remember that just because you owed a debt it doesn’t mean that the current collector has the legal right to collect it. 

You can tell me about your collecting calls without obligation and I can determine if I can help you. 

If I handle your case, I will force the bad collector to pay my fees or you will not owe me. You will speak to me personally, not staff members.

Abusive Collectors

Owing a debt does not give a collector the right to use abusive tactics. I often see debt collectors collecting real debts by using illegal and abusive tactics. Some abusive tactics that I see are threatening to call your employer, friends, family or others about your debt. I have even sued collectors for pretending to be emergency medical workers informing family of a non-existing car wreck to get someone to the phone. Some collectors falsely pretend to be the Court or law enforcement, or immigration officers. Some use telephone number “spoofing” which makes it appear someone you recognize is calling you. The Court’s phone number (or whichever number they chose) can appear on your caller I.D. to trick you into paying money. 

Other Collection Issues

Sometimes a real collection agency contacts you using otherwise reasonable tactics, but you just don’t owe them, or they have the wrong person. I handle these cases.

Bankruptcy

Sometimes a fresh start is needed when a person has too much debt to pay off.  I have represented thousands of people in bankruptcy over 27 years. I file Chapter 7 bankruptcy cases to eliminate debts that qualify.  Each situation is different, and I am glad to talk to you about your specific needs.  Bankruptcy is very technical and many exceptions exist.  So many factors can exist that determine your rights that it is imperative to speak to a knowledgeable attorney who knows how to ask the right questions.  I personally talk to each and every potential client. 

Contact John Fugate

You’re welcome to fill out the form below, or to call me at 254.756.2424.

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The contents of this website are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Requesting a consultation or submitting a case evaluation does not form an attorney client relationship. Attorney John Fugate, whose principal office is in Waco, takes collection agency harassment cases in cities throughout Texas including but not limited to Austin, Belton, Killeen, Lampassas, Copperas Cove, Gatesville, Hamilton, San Saba, Temple, and Waco. John Fugate is licensed to practice law in Texas and is Board Certified in Consumer and Commercial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

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