The short answer to this is “no.” Once you have retained my services, you should not speak to your creditors, collection agencies, or attorneys representing your creditors. If you happen to answer the phone and a creditor, collection agency or attorney is on the line, if I have first advised you of same, let the creditor know that you have retained my office, that you have authorized me to speak on your behalf, and give them my number. Although a creditor may insist on obtaining more information from you, you should discontinue the phone conversation. Be firm but polite, irrespective of the lack of respect that a collection agency or a creditor may show you. Should you come into contact with a particularly rude creditor, or if a creditor is contacting you several times a day, immediately advise that creditor that you are recording the conversation. You will be surprised how quickly the creditor’s attitude will change. Keep records of all creditor contact, including the names, dates and times called, and if possible, the telephone number used to call you. This information can be invaluable, especially if the creditor has violated the provisions of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.