Consumer/Debtor’s Right

Consumer/Debtor’s Right

Click the links below to get additional information on each topic

You've been sued and lost. What happens next? The "judgment creditor" has options for trying to collect from you, but you have some protections.
You are giving up important legal rights, including the right to sue if you sign a contract with a mandatory arbitration clause. Read carefully and think ahead.
Compares straight bankruptcy (Chapter 7) and debt adjustment (Chapter 13) plans. Who can file? Alternatives to bankruptcy. Basics of the procedures and effects of bankruptcy.
Some things to keep in mind when buying a used car and what you might be able to do if you have problems, including possible warranties.
Avoid car title loans; they can lead you into financial and legal problems that you may be unable to escape. Read more here to find out why.
Things to know and be careful of before signing a contract. What you are agreeing to when you cosign for someone else. What happens when someone breaches the contract?
Read about how the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects consumers from unfair treatment and harassment by debt collectors.
How to defend yourself if you are sued by a company that buys old debts.
Part One: Being Sued
Part Two: First Court Date
Part Three: Trial
What happens when a judgment creditor tries to take part of your wages or bank account? How to claim exemptions from garnishment.
What to do if you take your car to the shop.
How to defend yourself if you've been sued. The procedures and impact of a lawsuit and judgment against you.
How to avoid identity theft and what to do if you are a victim.
Read about what to do if you are having difficulty with medical bills, especially if you are facing serious collection. Tips on possible help available to you, and how to respond to collection notices and possible lawsuits.
Avoid payday loans; they can lead you into financial and legal problems that you may be unable to escape. Find out what they are and why you should avoid them.
Learn some of the rules and regulations that utility companies must follow when providing you with electric and water services. What are your rights?
When and how can someone repossess your vehicle or other personal property if you get behind in payments and when can they sue you for the money you still owe after they repossess and sell your property.
If you can't make your student loan payments, you have some options.
Offers tips on how to cope with your debt. It may help to seek budget counseling.
Procedures and tips for bringing your lawsuit to GDC. From filing and serving the papers and preparing for your court hearing, presenting your case to the judge and collecting on your judgment when you win.
There are two kinds of tax relief for the elderly and disabled--real estate and income tax relief.
The Virginia Consumer Protection Act identifies certain practices and fraudulent and unlawful.
Lemon Laws may cover some problems you have with a new or used vehicle with the original warranty still in effect. Most used cars are not covered by Lemon Laws. Read carefully for the limited application of these laws in Virginia.
Explains different kinds of warranties you may have on something you buy, and how you can use those warranties to get it fixed or replaced. Not everything you buy (including a vehicle) has warranty, and many warranties are limited in what they cover. Be careful when you are buying.