Stop Pressler and Pressler Debt Collection Harassment: A Complete Guide to Your Rights
If you’re receiving constant calls from Pressler and Pressler, you’re not alone. Every day, thousands of Americans deal with aggressive debt collection tactics that may cross legal boundaries. This guide will help you understand your rights, recognize when harassment is happening, and take concrete steps to protect yourself.
What You Need to Know About Pressler and Pressler
Pressler and Pressler is a debt collection law firm based in Parsippany, New Jersey, that’s been operating since 1930. While they’re a legitimate business, they’ve been involved in over 360 federal cases related to debt collection practices.
Contact Information
- Address: 7 Entin Rd, Parsippany, NJ 07054-5020
- Phone Numbers: 973-753-5100 | 973-753-5353
Names They Use
You might see them operating under different variations:
- Pressler & Pressler
- Pressler and Pressler LLP
- Pay Pressler
- Pressler Pressler
- Pressler and Pressler attorneys
Common Phone Numbers They Call From
If you’re receiving calls from these numbers, it’s likely Pressler and Pressler:
Keep in mind, they may use other numbers not listed here.
Is This Harassment? Signs You’re Being Targeted Illegally
If you’re being harassed by Pressler and Pressler, understanding what constitutes illegal behavior is your first line of defense. Here are the warning signs:
1. Calls at Unreasonable Hours
Debt collectors cannot legally call you before 8:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. in your time zone. If you’re getting early morning or late-night calls, this may be a violation of federal law.
2. Contacting You at Work After Being Told Not To
Once you inform a debt collector that you cannot receive calls at work, they must stop. If Pressler and Pressler continues calling your workplace after you’ve told them not to, they could be violating your rights.
3. Discussing Your Debt with Others
Your debt is private. If Pressler and Pressler talks about your debt with family members, neighbors, or coworkers, this could be a serious violation. They’re only allowed to contact third parties to locate you, not to discuss your financial situation.
4. Using Threatening or Abusive Language
Debt collectors cannot:
- Use profanity or obscene language
- Threaten violence or harm
- Use intimidating or bullying tactics
- Make repeated calls intended to annoy or harass you
5. Making False Threats
If a debt collector threatens to:
- Have you arrested for debt (you cannot be arrested for owing money)
- Seize your property without a court judgment
- Garnish your wages without legal authority
- Take actions they don’t actually intend to take
These are likely Pressler and Pressler FDCPA violations that you can take legal action against.
6. Lying About the Debt
Debt collectors cannot:
- Misrepresent the amount you owe
- Claim to be attorneys if they’re not
- Falsely claim you’ve committed a crime
- Lie about what will happen if you don’t pay
Your Legal Rights Under Federal Law
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is a federal law designed to protect consumers from abusive debt collection practices. Here’s what it guarantees you:
The Right to Verification
Within five days of first contacting you, debt collectors must send you a written notice containing:
- The amount of debt
- The name of the creditor
- A statement that you have 30 days to dispute the debt
- Information about how to request verification
If you dispute the debt in writing within 30 days, the collector must stop collection efforts until they provide verification.
The Right to Stop Communication
You can tell a debt collector to stop contacting you entirely. Send a written letter via certified mail requesting they cease communication. After receiving your letter, they can only contact you to:
- Confirm they’re stopping communication
- Notify you of specific actions they’re taking (like filing a lawsuit)
Protection from Harassment
The FDCPA specifically prohibits:
- Repeated phone calls intended to annoy or harass
- Calls without disclosing the caller’s identity
- Contacting you after you’ve asked them to stop (with limited exceptions)
- Publishing your name on a “bad debt” list
- Using deceptive or misleading tactics
The Right to Know Your Rights
Debt collectors must inform you of your rights under the FDCPA. If they fail to do this, it could be grounds for legal action.
The Right to Sue
If a debt collector violates the FDCPA, you have the right to sue them in state or federal court within one year of the violation. You may be entitled to:
- Up to $1,000 in statutory damages (regardless of actual harm)
- Compensation for actual damages (emotional distress, lost wages, etc.)
- Attorney fees and court costs (meaning you don’t pay out of pocket)
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Pressler and Pressler Phone Harassment
Taking action quickly can stop the harassment and protect your rights. Here’s a step-by-step plan:
Step 1: Document Everything
Create a detailed log of every interaction:
- Date and time of each call
- Phone number they called from
- Name of the person you spoke with
- What was said during the conversation
- Any threats or inappropriate language used
- Witnesses to the calls (if any)
Save all voicemails, letters, emails, and text messages. These records will be crucial if you decide to take legal action.
Step 2: Know What Debt They’re Collecting
Ask for verification of the debt:
- Request the name of the original creditor
- Ask for documentation proving you owe the debt
- Verify the amount they claim you owe
- Check if the debt is within your state’s statute of limitations
Important: In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for most debts is 6 years. If the debt is older than this, they may not be able to sue you, though they can still attempt to collect.
Step 3: Send a Debt Validation Letter
Within 30 days of their first contact, send a written letter via certified mail requesting they verify the debt. Include:
- Your name and address
- The date of their first contact
- A statement that you dispute the debt
- A request for verification
Once they receive your letter, they must stop collection activities until they provide proof.
Step 4: Send a Cease Communication Letter (If Appropriate)
If you want them to stop contacting you entirely, send a separate cease and desist letter. Be aware that after receiving this letter, they may:
- Stop all communication
- Notify you that they’re ending collection efforts
- Inform you they’re taking specific action (like filing a lawsuit)
Step 5: Check Your Credit Report
Review your credit report for any inaccuracies related to the debt. If Pressler and Pressler is reporting incorrect information, you have the right to dispute it with the credit bureaus.
Step 6: File Complaints with Regulatory Agencies
Report Pressler and Pressler to CFPB and other agencies:
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- Online at consumerfinance.gov/complaint
- By phone at 855-411-2372
- The CFPB tracks complaints and can take action against repeat offenders
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- File online at reportfraud.ftc.gov
- The FTC uses complaints to investigate companies
- Since Pressler and Pressler operates in New Jersey, file a complaint with the state attorney general’s Division of Consumer Affairs
While filing complaints creates an official record, it may not stop the harassment immediately. You’ll likely need legal assistance for that.
Step 7: Consult with a Consumer Rights Attorney
If you believe Pressler and Pressler has violated your rights, contact an experienced consumer protection attorney. At The Wood Law Firm, we offer:
- Free case evaluations
- No upfront costs (we work on contingency)
- Over 13 years of experience fighting debt collection harassment
- A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
Call us at +1 844-638-1122 to discuss your case.
Understanding Your Options: Can You Sue Pressler and Pressler for Harassment?
Yes, if you believe they’ve violated the FDCPA, you may be able to sue Pressler and Pressler for harassment. Here’s what you need to know:
What You Could Recover
If you successfully prove FDCPA violations, you may be entitled to:
Statutory Damages: Up to $1,000 per lawsuit (not per violation), regardless of whether you can prove actual harm. This means even if you can’t show financial losses, you may still recover damages.
Actual Damages: Compensation for harm you actually suffered, such as:
- Emotional distress and anxiety
- Lost wages from missed work
- Medical expenses if the stress caused health problems
- Damage to your reputation
Attorney Fees and Court Costs: If you win, the debt collector pays your legal fees. This is why many consumer attorneys work on contingency—you don’t pay anything upfront.
Injunctive Relief: A court order preventing them from continuing the harassment.
Time Limits
You must file a lawsuit within one year of the violation. Don’t wait too long to take action.
Building a Strong Case
To successfully sue for harassment, you’ll need:
- Clear documentation of violations
- Evidence of communication (call logs, recordings where legal, letters)
- Witnesses who heard the calls or threats
- Records showing how the harassment affected you
This is where having an experienced attorney becomes invaluable. We know how to gather evidence, build compelling cases, and negotiate settlements.
Common Questions About Dealing with Pressler and Pressler
Is Pressler and Pressler a Scam?
No, Pressler and Pressler is a legitimate debt collection law firm that’s been operating since 1930. However, legitimacy doesn’t mean their practices are always legal or ethical. Many consumers have filed Pressler and Pressler debt collector complaints about aggressive tactics.
Can They Take My Property?
Pressler and Pressler cannot seize your property without first suing you and obtaining a court judgment. Even with a judgment, certain property is protected under state law. They cannot:
- Take your primary residence without foreclosure proceedings
- Seize property that’s exempt under state law
- Repossess items unless the debt was used to purchase that specific item
If they’re threatening to take your property without a judgment, this could be an illegal threat.
Can Pressler and Pressler Sue Me?
Yes, they can potentially file a lawsuit if:
- The debt is within the statute of limitations
- They have proper documentation
- They follow required legal procedures
If they do sue you, don’t ignore it. Failing to respond to a lawsuit can result in a default judgment against you, which could lead to wage garnishment or bank account levies.
Will They Report the Debt to Credit Bureaus?
Debt collectors can report debts to credit bureaus, which can negatively impact your credit score for up to seven years. However, they must report accurate information. If they’re reporting incorrect details, you have the right to dispute it.
Can I Be Arrested for Debt?
No. Debtors’ prisons were abolished in the United States in the 1830s. You cannot be arrested simply for owing money. However, you could face legal consequences for:
- Ignoring a court summons
- Violating a court order
- Certain specific debts like child support or unpaid taxes
If Pressler and Pressler threatens you with arrest for debt, this is likely illegal and you should document it immediately.
What If the Debt Isn’t Mine?
If you believe the debt isn’t yours or you’re a victim of identity theft:
- Send a dispute letter immediately
- Request verification of the debt
- File a report with the FTC at identitytheft.gov
- Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports
Never acknowledge a debt that isn’t yours, as this could reset the statute of limitations.
Real Cases: Legal Action Against Pressler and Pressler
Understanding that others have successfully taken legal action can help you feel empowered to protect your rights. Here are some notable federal cases involving Pressler and Pressler:
- 2:19-cv-00191-MRH WYNNYCKYJ v. CACH, LLC et al
- 2:19-cv-00477-JD RAMOS v. LVNV FUNDING, LLC et al
- 2:18-cv-03752-GAM RAMOS v. LVNV FUNDING, LLC et al
- 2:17-cv-12378-WJM-MF TEAHAN v. PRESSLER & PRESSLER LLP et al
- 2:17-cv-11357-WHW-CLW ARAKELIAN v. PRESSLER & PRESSLER, LLP et al
You can research these and other cases at Pacer.gov to see how courts have ruled on similar situations.
These cases demonstrate that consumers have successfully challenged debt collection practices and that courts take FDCPA violations seriously.
How The Wood Law Firm Helps Stop Debt Harassment from Pressler and Pressler
At The Wood Law Firm, we’ve been fighting for consumers’ rights since 2010. Here’s how we can help you:
Our Approach
1. Free Case Evaluation We’ll review your situation at no cost and help you understand whether you have a valid claim.
2. No Upfront Costs We work on a contingency basis. You don’t pay attorney fees unless we recover money for you.
3. Immediate Action Once you hire us, we contact Pressler and Pressler on your behalf. In many cases, the harassment stops immediately.
4. Thorough Investigation We gather all evidence, review your documentation, and identify every potential violation.
5. Aggressive Representation Whether negotiating a settlement or taking your case to court, we fight for maximum compensation.
Why Choose Us?
- A+ BBB Rating: Our commitment to client satisfaction speaks for itself
- Over 13 Years of Experience: We’ve helped thousands of consumers stop debt collection harassment
- Proven Track Record: We’ve successfully recovered damages for clients in cases similar to yours
- Personalized Attention: You’re not just a case number—we treat you with the respect you deserve
What Our Clients Say
“I was bombarded with calls from a debt collector seeking payment for someone else. After contacting The Wood Law Firm, they stopped the calls immediately, and I received compensation without paying anything upfront. Highly recommended!”
“Working with The Wood Law Firm was a pleasure. They understood my situation and effectively resolved the harassment. I felt supported every step of the way and even received compensation. I would recommend them to anyone facing similar challenges.”
Ready to Stop the Harassment?
Don’t let Pressler and Pressler debt collection harassment continue. Contact The Wood Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Call +1 844-638-1122 or visit The Wood Law Firm to get started.
Additional Resources for Debt Collection Issues
If you’re dealing with other debt collectors or want to learn more about your rights:
- Global Recovery Solutions Debt Collection Harassment
- Alliant Capital Management Debt Collection Harassment
- Recovery Partners Debt Collection Harassment
- Recovery Solutions Group Debt Collection Harassment
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How quickly can I stop Pressler and Pressler from calling me?
The fastest way to stop calls is to send a cease and desist letter via certified mail. They must stop contacting you once they receive it (except to confirm they’re stopping or to notify you of legal action). If you hire an attorney, we can send this letter on your behalf, which often results in immediate cessation of contact. Most harassment stops within days of retaining legal counsel.
2. What should I do if I can’t afford to pay the debt right now?
Don’t let financial stress prevent you from protecting your rights. Even if you owe the debt, Pressler and Pressler must follow the law when collecting it. If you can’t pay:
- Don’t ignore the situation
- Consider negotiating a payment plan or settlement
- Explore whether the debt is valid and within the statute of limitations
- Understand that you can still take legal action against harassment even if you owe the money
Remember, owing a debt doesn’t give collectors the right to harass you.
3. Can Pressler and Pressler garnish my wages without suing me first?
No. Wage garnishment requires a court judgment. Pressler and Pressler must first sue you, win the lawsuit, and obtain a judgment before they can garnish your wages. Even then, federal and state laws limit how much can be garnished. If they’re threatening wage garnishment without having sued you, this could be an illegal threat.
4. What’s the difference between a debt collector and a collection attorney?
Pressler and Pressler is a law firm that collects debts, which means they’re both debt collectors and attorneys. This distinction matters because:
- They must still follow the FDCPA like any debt collector
- They can file lawsuits more easily than non-attorney collectors
- They may use more aggressive legal tactics
- Violations by attorney collectors can sometimes result in additional penalties
Don’t be intimidated by their attorney status—they still must follow the law.
5. If I dispute the debt, will it affect my credit score?
Disputing a debt doesn’t directly harm your credit score. However, the debt itself may already be reported on your credit report. If the debt is invalid and you successfully dispute it with both the collector and the credit bureaus, it should be removed from your credit report, which could improve your score.
6. How do I know if the statute of limitations has expired on my debt?
The statute of limitations varies by state and type of debt. In New Jersey, it’s generally 6 years for most debts. The clock typically starts from:
- The date of your last payment, or
- The date you last acknowledged the debt in writing
If you’re unsure, don’t acknowledge the debt or make any payments until you consult with an attorney. Making a payment or acknowledging an old debt can restart the statute of limitations.
7. Can Pressler and Pressler contact me on my cell phone?
Yes, but with restrictions. Under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), collectors cannot use automatic dialing systems or prerecorded messages to call your cell phone without your prior consent. If you didn’t provide your cell phone number to the original creditor or give consent, these calls may be illegal.
8. What if I already paid this debt?
If you’ve already paid the debt and Pressler and Pressler is still trying to collect:
- Gather proof of payment (bank statements, receipts, canceled checks)
- Send them copies with a letter explaining the debt was paid
- Keep records of all correspondence
- If they continue collection efforts, this could be a serious FDCPA violation
Never pay a debt twice. This situation is exactly why you need legal help.
9. Should I record phone calls with Pressler and Pressler?
This depends on your state’s recording laws. Some states require only one party’s consent (yours), while others require all parties to consent. Check your state’s laws before recording. Alternatively:
- Take detailed notes during calls
- Have a witness listen when possible
- Request all communication in writing
If you do record legally, these recordings can be powerful evidence.
10. What happens if Pressler and Pressler sues me and I don’t respond?
If you ignore a lawsuit, the court will likely issue a default judgment against you, which means Pressler and Pressler automatically wins. This can lead to:
- Wage garnishment
- Bank account levies
- Property liens
- Additional court costs and interest
Never ignore a lawsuit, even if you believe the debt is invalid or too old. Consult with an attorney immediately if you’re served with court papers.
11. Can I file a complaint against Pressler and Pressler even if I owe the debt?
Absolutely. Owing a debt doesn’t give collectors the right to harass you or violate the law. You can (and should) file complaints and potentially take legal action if your rights have been violated, regardless of whether the underlying debt is valid.
12. How long does it take to resolve a case against a debt collector?
This varies significantly based on:
- The strength of your case
- Whether the collector settles or fights the claim
- Court schedules if the case goes to trial
Many cases settle within 3-6 months. Some resolve in weeks if the violations are clear. Cases that go to trial can take longer. An experienced attorney can give you a more accurate timeline based on your specific situation.
13. What if the debt is from medical bills?
Medical debt is treated like other consumer debt under the FDCPA. Pressler and Pressler must follow the same rules when collecting medical debt. Additionally:
- Check if your insurance should have covered the charges
- Verify the bill is accurate
- Understand that medical debt reporting to credit bureaus has some special protections
Medical debt cases can be complex, so legal guidance is particularly valuable.
14. Can Pressler and Pressler contact my employer?
Debt collectors can contact your employer only to verify your employment or to process wage garnishment after obtaining a judgment. They cannot:
- Discuss your debt with your employer
- Contact your employer repeatedly
- Tell your employer you owe a debt (unless processing a garnishment)
If they’re calling your workplace inappropriately, this could be harassment.
15. What should I do if Pressler and Pressler threaten legal action?
Don’t panic. Threats of legal action are common debt collection tactics. If they threaten to sue:
- Don’t ignore it—they might actually file suit
- Verify whether the debt is within the statute of limitations
- Review whether they have the right to collect
- Consult with an attorney before responding
If they threaten legal action they don’t intend to take, or make false threats (like arrest), document it and contact an attorney immediately—these could be FDCPA violations.
Take Action Today
You don’t have to face Pressler and Pressler debt collection harassment alone. Whether you want to stop the calls, dispute a debt, or sue for violations of your rights, The Wood Law Firm is here to help.
Next Steps
- Document any harassment you’ve experienced
- Gather all letters, voicemails, and records of communication
- Call us at +1 844-638-1122 for a free consultation
- Let us handle the stress while you focus on your life
Don’t wait. The sooner you take action, the sooner we can stop the harassment and potentially recover compensation for what you’ve endured.
Get Legal Help Against Pressler and Pressler Harassment
Contact The Wood Law Firm now. We’re ready to fight for your rights and help you get the justice you deserve.
Call +1 844-638-1122 or visit protectionforconsumers.com today.
