Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Avoiding Consumer Scams During the Pandemic
Not surprisingly, scammers use the COVID-19 pandemic to find new and innovative ways to thieve money from unsuspecting consumers. It’s important to learn what some of the popular scams are and avoid being taken advantage of by these people. If you believe you’re the victim of a consumer scam, contact a Philadelphia consumer attorney… Read More »
Does a Debt Collector Have to Give Me an Itemized Bill?
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law designed to protect you from unethical and unscrupulous conduct by companies hired to act as debt collectors. A key provision of the FDCPA specifically forbids debt collectors from making “any false, deceptive, or misleading representation” in connection with a debt. For example, a… Read More »
Do You Know Who Actually Sold You That Defective Used Car?
If you have been the victim of used car fraud, you understandably want to hold the underhanded dealer legally accountable for their actions. But this is often easier said than done. For one thing, first you need to identify the party that is legally responsible. Given that automobile dealerships are generally owned by corporations… Read More »
What Happens When You Sue Someone for Consumer Fraud–And They Do Not Fight Back?
Consumers are often reluctant to take legal action against a business that has ripped them off, such as a home contractor, because they fear litigation will be a long and expensive process. While this is true in some cases, there are situations where the defendant business itself is in no position to contest a… Read More »
Can You Fight a Philadelphia Home Foreclosure?
Many Americans are still dealing with unstable work conditions as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to keep many businesses closed. Not surprisingly, these people are falling behind on all their bills, including a home mortgage. It’s estimated that over 8% of homeowners fell behind in their mortgage payments during the second quarter of 2020. Banks… Read More »
How to Pursue an Unfair Insurance Claim Denial in Philadelphia?
It’s no secret that insurance companies look for ways to avoid paying out a claim to someone, especially in auto accident cases. However, sometimes their push to avoid payment crosses into unfair practices and becomes bad faith. If you believe your insurance claim was wrongfully denied, you need an experienced Philadelphia insurance claim denial… Read More »
Can a Prospective Employer Use My Credit Report Against Me?
Your credit report can affect more than your ability to get a loan. It can also prevent you from getting a job. Prospective employers often use credit or “consumer reports” when making hiring decisions. While this is a legal practice, employers must strictly comply with the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) before obtaining… Read More »
Pennsylvania AG Cleared to Proceed with Lawsuit Against Subprime Student Loan Servicer
When a person falls behind on their student loans, they typically have two options to avoid a default. The first option is forbearance, which allows you to temporarily stop making payments. The second option is known as income-driven repayment (IDR) and involves adjusting your monthly payments. IDR is usually the more affordable option for… Read More »
How the Fair Credit Reporting Act Can Help You In the Event of Identity Theft
Identity theft can wreak havoc on your life–not to mention your credit rating. When someone uses your identity to take out a credit card or loan in your name, it can take years for you to clean up the mess. And even when lenders say they will help, they often do not follow through,… Read More »
Third Circuit Finds Rental Car Company “Jackets” Did Not Create Binding Arbitration Agreements
Companies often try to trick customers into binding arbitration agreements. Arbitration is a form of private dispute resolution that typically restricts the legal rights of consumers–and thus heavily favors the business that drafted the agreement. In some cases, consumers may not even realize they have agreed to arbitration at the time they purchased a… Read More »
