Consumer complaint received 2024-12-19 00:00:00
Product: Debt collection — I do not know
Issue: Communication tactics — You told them to stop contacting you, but they keep trying
Company: Cawley & Bergmann, LLP
State: IL

Complaint narrative:
Subject : Complaint Against CAWLEY & BERGMANN for Unlawful Debt Collection Practices To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to file a formal complaint against CAWLEY & BERGMANN regarding their improper and potentially unlawful debt collection practices. Below is a detailed account of my interactions with their representative, which I believe violates the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act ( FDCPA ) ( 15 U.S.C. 1692-1692p ) : Disclosure of Debt Details to a Third Party : On XX/XX/year>, at approximately XXXXXXXX XXXX, I received a call from a representative named XXXX. He stated that the debt in question was in my wifes name, XXXX XXXX, and proceeded to disclose the amount owed to me. 

Violation : Under the FDCPA, debt collectors are prohibited from sharing debt-related information with third parties who are not legally responsible for the debt ( 15 U.S.C. 1692c ( b ) ).

Unnecessary Collection Attempts Against Me : Despite confirming that the debt was not in my name, XXXX insisted on obtaining my personal information and questioned my decision not to assist my wife with the debt. This behavior was both harassing and intimidating. 

Violation : Harassment or abuse is prohibited under 15 U.S.C. 1692d. Additionally, attempting to collect a debt from an individual not responsible for the debt may violate 15 U.S.C. 1692f ( unfair practices ).

Threats of Litigation : XXXX stated that litigation might be pursued by a local law firm to settle the debt. It was implied that legal action was imminent. However, no documentation or further clarification was provided. 

Violation : Threatening legal action that is not intended or can not be taken is prohibited under 15 U.S.C. 1692e ( 5 ) ( false or misleading representations ).

Failure to Validate the Debt : When I requested validation of the debt, XXXX refused, claiming that the debt was not in my name. Despite this, the company continues to contact me daily about the matter. 

Violation : Debt collectors are required to provide validation of the debt upon request within five days of initial communication ( 15 U.S.C. 1692g ). Refusing to do so while continuing collection efforts may violate 15 U.S.C. 1692f.

Daily Harassment : I receive calls from CAWLEY & BERGMANN every day, which is excessive and intended to intimidate.

Violation : Excessive and repeated calls are considered harassment under 15 U.S.C. 1692d ( 5 ).

Based on the above, I believe that CAWLEY & BERGMANN has engaged in deceptive, abusive, and illegal debt collection practices. 

Request for Action I respectfully request that the CFPB investigate these actions and ensure that CAWLEY & BERGMANN is held accountable for their violations of the FDCPA. I would also appreciate any guidance on protecting myself and my family from further harassment. 

I have enclosed all relevant documentation, including a record of calls and notes from my interaction with the representative. If additional information is needed, please feel free to contact me at [ your phone number ] or [ your email address ]. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Company response to consumer: Closed with explanation