If you’re receiving multiple daily calls from Greenberg, Grant & Richards demanding payment, experiencing threats of arrest or legal action, or hearing abusive language during collection attempts, you may be facing illegal debt collection harassment. These tactics can create overwhelming stress and anxiety, but federal law provides powerful protections.
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act prohibits specific collector behaviors and gives you the right to take legal action when violations occur. Understanding what Greenberg, Grant & Richards can and cannot do legally helps you recognize when they’ve crossed the line and empowers you to stop the harassment.
Who Is Greenberg, Grant & Richards?
Greenberg, Grant & Richards, Inc. is a third-party debt collection agency established in 1993 and headquartered in Houston, Texas. The firm collects debts related to credit cards, medical bills, and other consumer obligations.
Company Information:
- Address: 5858 Westheimer Rd, Suite 500, Houston, TX 77057-5645
- Phone Numbers: (713) 789-5893, (888) 961-1000, (713) 789-0137
- Founded: 1993
- Location: Houston, Texas
Better Business Bureau
According to the Better Business Bureau, Greenberg, Grant & Richards has operated for over 30 years. However, the company has accumulated numerous consumer complaints over the years, raising questions about their collection practices and methods. BBB complaints create public records warning other consumers.
Federal Court Cases
Greenberg, Grant & Richards has faced scrutiny in federal courts for allegedly employing illegal and harassing tactics. Notable cases include:
- Lampkin v. Greenberg, Grant and Richards, Inc. (Case No. 1:15-cv-00402-PLM)
- Burns v. Greenberg, Grant and Richards Inc. (Case No. 4:15-cv-00517-DDB)
These lawsuits demonstrate patterns of alleged FDCPA violations that consumers should recognize when dealing with this collector. Understanding how to identify harassment from debt collectors helps you protect your rights and take appropriate legal action.
Your Rights Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
The FDCPA establishes clear boundaries for debt collector behavior. Understanding these protections helps you identify violations:
Protection from Harassment and Abuse. Debt collectors cannot use profane or abusive language, threaten violence, call repeatedly to annoy you, or engage in conduct meant to harass, abuse, or oppress you (15 U.S.C. § 1692d).
Protection from False or Misleading Representations Greenberg, Grant & Richards cannot misrepresent the amount you owe, falsely claim to be attorneys or government representatives, threaten arrest or criminal prosecution, or send false information to credit bureaus (15 U.S.C. § 1692e).
Communication Restrictions Collectors cannot call before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM in your time zone, contact you at work after being told your employer prohibits such calls, or discuss your debt with third parties without your consent (15 U.S.C. § 1692c).
Right to Debt Validation Within five days of initial contact, Greenberg, Grant & Richards must send written notice containing the debt amount, original creditor name, and your right to dispute (15 U.S.C. § 1692g).
Right to Sue for Violations If Greenberg, Grant & Richards violates the FDCPA, you can sue for statutory damages up to $1,000, actual damages for emotional distress, and attorney fees. The violating collector pays all legal fees under the law.
Recognizing Illegal Collection Tactics
Based on consumer complaints and federal lawsuits, watch for these prohibited practices. Similar tactics have been reported with other agencies like Global Recovery Solutions and NCC Business Services, highlighting patterns across the debt collection industry.
Calling Outside Legal Hours
If Greenberg, Grant & Richards calls before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM in your local time zone, they violate federal law (15 U.S.C. § 1692c). Night-time calling is explicitly illegal and provides clear grounds for legal action.
Excessive Call Frequency
Multiple daily calls intended to harass or annoy violate the FDCPA (15 U.S.C. § 1692d). While no specific number automatically constitutes harassment, courts have found patterns of 7-10+ daily calls problematic when combined with harassing intent.
Workplace Contact After Notification
If you inform Greenberg, Grant & Richards that your employer prohibits personal calls and they continue calling your workplace, they violate federal law (15 U.S.C. § 1692c). Document these workplace violations carefully as they provide strong evidence for legal claims.
Using Abusive or Profane Language
Collectors must maintain professional communication. Using obscene language, shouting, or making threats violates 15 U.S.C. § 1692d. Professional disagreement about debts is acceptable, but abuse and intimidation are not.
Threatening Arrest or Criminal Prosecution
Greenberg, Grant & Richards cannot threaten arrest or criminal prosecution for unpaid debts (15 U.S.C. § 1692e). Debt is a civil matter, not criminal. These threats are false and illegal.
Contacting Third Parties About Your Debt
Discussing your debt with family members, friends, neighbors, or employers violates your privacy rights (15 U.S.C. § 1692b). Collectors can contact others only to locate you and cannot reveal they’re debt collectors or mention any debt.
Misrepresenting Debt Amounts or Consequences
Falsely claiming you owe more than the actual debt, threatening legal actions they don’t intend to pursue, or lying about consequences of non-payment violates 15 U.S.C. § 1692e.
Sending False Information to Credit Bureaus
Reporting debts they know are inaccurate or disputed violates both the FDCPA and Fair Credit Reporting Act. If Greenberg, Grant & Richards reports false information, you have multiple legal claims.
What to Do When Greenberg, Grant & Richards First Contacts You
Your initial response shapes all future interactions:
Don’t Acknowledge the Debt Immediately
If you don’t recognize the debt or believe it may be incorrect, don’t acknowledge it during first contact. Simply state you’re aware of your FDCPA rights and will respond in writing.
Acknowledging debts—especially old ones—can restart statutes of limitations and create legal obligations you may not have.
Request Written Debt Validation
Within five days of initial contact, Greenberg, Grant & Richards must send written validation. If you haven’t received it, request it in writing within 30 days. Your request should ask for:
- Complete documentation proving the debt’s validity
- Original creditor’s name and contact information
- Proof they own the debt or are authorized to collect it
- Complete payment history
- Documentation showing the debt is within your state’s statute of limitations
Send via certified mail with return receipt to prove delivery and timing.
Document Every Contact Attempt
Keep detailed records including:
- Date and time of each call
- Phone number they called from
- Caller’s name and any identification numbers
- Complete conversation details
- Any threats or false statements
- Voicemail messages (save recordings)
This documentation becomes critical evidence for potential legal claims.
Never Make Payments Before Validation
Don’t pay until you receive and verify complete debt validation. Paying unverified debts risks:
- Paying debts you don’t owe
- Restarting statutes of limitations on old debts
- Acknowledging debts beyond legal collection periods
Verifying the Debt’s Legitimacy
Verification protects you from paying incorrect, fraudulent, or time-barred debts:
Review the Validation Notice Carefully
Examine all information for accuracy:
- Does the amount match your records?
- Do you recognize the original creditor?
- Are the dates correct?
- Do you have proof you already paid?
Compare their information against financial records, credit reports, and original creditor documentation.
Check Your Credit Reports
Obtain free reports from all three bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com. Verify whether Greenberg, Grant & Richards or the original creditor reported this debt. Check if dates, amounts, and creditor information match their claims.
Verify Statute of Limitations
Understanding time-barred debts helps identify debts beyond your state’s collection period. Most states set statutes of limitations between 3-6 years depending on debt type.
If the debt is time-barred, Greenberg, Grant & Richards cannot legally sue you, though they may still attempt collection.
Watch for Red Flags
Be suspicious if:
- They cannot provide original creditor documentation
- The debt amount differs from your records
- You’ve never heard of the original creditor
- The debt is very old (possibly time-barred)
- They refuse validation after your written request
How to Stop Greenberg, Grant & Richards from Calling
You have multiple legal options to end unwanted contact:
Send a Written Cease and Desist Letter
Federal law requires collectors to stop contacting you after receiving a written cease-and-desist demand. Your letter should state:
“I am exercising my right under 15 U.S.C. § 1692c to demand that Greenberg, Grant & Richards, Inc. cease all communication with me regarding the alleged debt referenced as account number [insert number].”
Include your name, address, and account number. Send via certified mail with return receipt.
After receiving this letter, they can only contact you to:
- Confirm they will stop communication
- Notify you of specific lawsuits they’re filing
Any other contact violates federal law.
Stop Workplace Calls Specifically
If you prefer they continue contact but not at work, send written notification stating your employer prohibits personal calls and workplace contact is inconvenient. Keep copies and certified mail receipts.
Workplace calls after this notification violate the FDCPA.
Document Their Phone Numbers
Greenberg, Grant & Richards may use multiple numbers:
- (713) 789-5893
- (888) 961-1000
- (713) 789-0137
- Various other numbers
Document each number they call from. Using multiple numbers to bypass blocking may strengthen harassment claims.
Take Legal Action
Contact The Wood Law Firm at 📲 844-638-1122 to immediately stop harassment while pursuing compensation for FDCPA violations. We handle all collector communication and build cases for maximum damages.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards Sue You or Garnish Wages?
Understanding what they can legally do helps you identify false threats:
Requirements for Lawsuits
Greenberg, Grant & Richards can sue if:
- The debt is within your state’s statute of limitations (typically 3-6 years)
- They have proper documentation proving you owe the debt
- They own the debt or have authorization to collect it
If they threaten lawsuits but the debt may be time-barred or they lack documentation, these could be empty threats violating the FDCPA.
Wage Garnishment Requirements
They cannot garnish wages without:
- Filing a lawsuit against you
- Serving you with proper legal notice
- Winning a court judgment
- Obtaining a separate garnishment order
Exception for Federal Debts: Federal student loans and tax debts allow administrative garnishment without court judgments.
Garnishment Limits
Federal law caps garnishment at the lesser of:
- 25% of disposable earnings, or
- The amount by which weekly disposable earnings exceed 30 times the federal minimum wage
The U.S. Department of Labor explains federal wage garnishment protections. Understanding garnishment procedures helps you identify illegal threats.
Property Seizure
Generally, Greenberg, Grant & Richards cannot seize property. However, if they win a court judgment, they may gain legal rights to claim specific assets depending on your state’s laws and exemptions.
Arrest Threats Are Always Illegal
Debt collectors cannot have you arrested for unpaid debts. Debt is a civil matter, not criminal. Any arrest threats violate federal law (15 U.S.C. § 1692e).
Exception: If you ignore a valid court order related to a judgment, a judge could issue a contempt warrant—but this requires court proceedings, not collector actions.
Medical Debt Collection by Greenberg, Grant & Richards
If Greenberg, Grant & Richards contacts you about medical debt, special protections apply. Medical debt collectors often violate consumer rights because patients don’t understand healthcare billing.
Recent Medical Debt Protections
As of 2023:
- Medical debts under $500 cannot appear on credit reports
- Medical debts must remain unpaid for one year before credit reporting
- Paid medical collections should be removed from credit reports
Verify Medical Debt Accuracy
Before paying, confirm:
- Your insurance processed all claims correctly
- The provider billed correct amounts
- You received all available discounts or financial assistance
- The amount matches your Explanation of Benefits
- The debt isn’t from insurance processing errors
Responding to Lawsuits from Greenberg, Grant & Richards
Never ignore lawsuit notices. Taking immediate action protects your rights:
Verify Lawsuit Legitimacy
Confirm authenticity by:
- Checking court records directly
- Verifying case number and filing date
- Confirming proper service according to your state’s rules
Scammers sometimes send fake legal documents. Always verify with the court.
File Your Answer on Time
Most states require written responses within 20-30 days. Missing this deadline results in default judgments granting significant collection powers.
Your answer should:
- Admit or deny each specific allegation
- Raise affirmative defenses (expired statute of limitations, lack of documentation)
- Assert counterclaims for FDCPA violations if applicable
Examine Their Evidence
Greenberg, Grant & Richards must prove:
- You owe the debt
- The amount is accurate
- They own the debt or are authorized to collect
- The statute of limitations hasn’t expired
Many collectors struggle to provide complete documentation chains.
Get Legal Representation
Consumer protection attorneys identify defenses and counterclaims that shift leverage to you. Call The Wood Law Firm at 📲 844-638-1122 for immediate lawsuit assistance.
How Collection Accounts Affect Credit Scores
Debt collectors can damage credit scores by reporting collection accounts, but strict rules govern this:
Credit Reporting Requirements
Greenberg, Grant & Richards must:
- Verify accuracy before reporting
- Investigate disputes within 30 days
- Report investigation results to you and credit bureaus
- Correct or delete inaccurate information
Your Dispute Rights
Dispute collection accounts directly with all three credit bureaus. Bureaus must investigate within 30 days and remove information they cannot verify.
Collection Account Duration
Collection accounts remain on reports for seven years from the original delinquency date—not when Greenberg, Grant & Richards acquired or reported it. This clock cannot be restarted.
Credit Score Impact
Collections typically drop scores 50-100+ points. However:
- Newer scoring models ignore paid collections
- Medical collections under $500 cannot be reported
- Removing inaccurate collections quickly improves scores
What to Do About Paid Debts They’re Still Pursuing
When collectors contact you about paid debts, take these steps:
- Request written validation
- Gather payment proof (receipts, cancelled checks, bank statements, settlement letters)
- Send payment documentation via certified mail with clear statement that you satisfied this debt
- If reported to credit bureaus, dispute with all three bureaus
- If harassment continues after proving payment, file complaints and consult an attorney
Never make additional payments on satisfied debts without legal consultation.
Filing Complaints Against Greenberg, Grant & Richards
Multiple agencies accept complaints about FDCPA violations:
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
File online at consumerfinance.gov. The CFPB investigates patterns of illegal behavior and maintains a public complaint database.
Federal Trade Commission
The FTC enforces the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and accepts complaints. Complaint patterns trigger investigations and enforcement actions.
Texas Attorney General
Since Greenberg, Grant & Richards operates in Texas, complaints to the Texas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division may trigger state investigations.
Better Business Bureau
BBB complaints create public records warning other consumers. Review their BBB profile to see existing complaint patterns.
Client Success Stories
Case 1: Workplace Harassment Stopped
David received calls from Greenberg, Grant & Richards at his workplace 3-4 times weekly despite informing them during the first call that his employer prohibited personal calls. The calls continued for six weeks, nearly causing his termination.
After contacting The Wood Law Firm, we documented 18 workplace calls after David’s clear notification. We immediately stopped all contact and secured a $4,200 settlement for the FDCPA violations. David’s case resolved within eight weeks.
Case 2: Time-Barred Debt Collection Ended
Maria received aggressive calls about a seven-year-old credit card debt. She researched her state’s statute of limitations and believed the debt was time-barred. Despite explaining this, collectors continued calling and threatening lawsuits.
The Wood Law Firm verified the statute expired, sent a cease-and-desist letter, and pursued legal action for continued collection on a time-barred debt. We obtained $3,100 in damages and permanently stopped all harassment.
Case 3: False Arrest Threats
James received calls from Greenberg, Grant & Richards threatening him with arrest if he didn’t pay immediately. These threats occurred multiple times over two weeks, causing severe anxiety.
We documented the illegal arrest threats and filed suit for FDCPA violations. The case settled for $3,800, and all collection attempts ceased immediately. James also successfully disputed the debt, which was removed from his credit report.
About The Wood Law Firm: Your Consumer Protection Advocates
The Wood Law Firm has defended consumers against abusive debt collection practices for over 15 years. We focus exclusively on Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and Telephone Consumer Protection Act violations. Whether you’re facing harassment from ARM Solutions, Capital Accounts, Cavalry Portfolio Services, Recovery Solutions Group, or Greenberg, Grant & Richards, we have the experience to stop the harassment and recover damages.
Our Consumer-Focused Approach
We understand debt collector harassment creates significant stress and anxiety. Our team provides compassionate representation while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation for violations. Every client works directly with experienced attorneys who understand federal and state consumer protection laws.
Attorney Jeff Wood’s Experience
Jeff Wood brings over 15 years of consumer protection experience to every case. Licensed in Arkansas, he represents clients in federal courts across Arkansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. His extensive federal court experience includes successfully litigating against major debt collectors including Greenberg, Grant & Richards.
Nationwide Legal Network
The Wood Law Firm maintains Of Counsel relationships with attorneys licensed in Arizona, California, Florida, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia. This network ensures comprehensive representation regardless of your location.
Our Track Record
- A+ Better Business Bureau rating maintained since 2010
- Hundreds of successful FDCPA cases resolved
- Millions recovered in consumer damages and statutory penalties
- Zero upfront costs—all cases handled on contingency
- Direct attorney access throughout your case
Why Clients Choose Us
No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing unless we win. Federal law requires violators to pay your attorney fees and damages.
Proven Results: We’ve successfully handled cases against Greenberg, Grant & Richards and other major collectors, securing favorable settlements and judgments.
Personal Service: You communicate directly with your attorney, not staff. We keep you informed at every stage.
National Reach: Our Of Counsel network provides representation across multiple states and federal jurisdictions.
Stop Greenberg, Grant & Richards Harassment Today
Don’t let Greenberg, Grant & Richards continue violating your rights through illegal harassment.
Free Consultation Available Now
Call 📲 844-638-1122 to speak with experienced consumer protection attorneys. During your free consultation, we will:
- Review your situation in complete detail at no cost
- Identify specific FDCPA violations
- Explain all legal options clearly
- Stop harassment immediately upon retention
- Pursue maximum compensation through settlement or litigation
Important Time Limits: FDCPA claims must typically be filed within one year of violations. Don’t delay—contact us today to protect your rights and hold Greenberg, Grant & Richards accountable.
The company’s history of federal lawsuits demonstrates its willingness to push legal boundaries. You deserve better treatment under federal law. Let our experienced team fight for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Greenberg, Grant & Richards a legitimate debt collection agency?
Yes, Greenberg, Grant & Richards, Inc. is a legitimate third-party debt collection agency founded in 1993 and based in Houston, Texas. However, legitimacy doesn’t prevent FDCPA violations—they’ve faced numerous complaints and federal lawsuits over alleged harassment and illegal collection tactics.
Is Greenberg, Grant & Richards a scam?
No, they are not a scam. They are a legitimate collection agency. However, their history of consumer complaints and federal lawsuits has raised serious concerns about their collection practices and compliance with federal law.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards seize my property?
Generally, no, but if they win a court judgment against you, they may gain legal rights to claim specific assets depending on your state’s laws and available exemptions. They must follow proper legal procedures, including filing suit, winning a judgment, and obtaining court orders.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards sue me?
Yes, if your debt is within your state’s statute of limitations (usually 3-6 years, depending on debt type and state). They must have proper documentation proving you owe the debt. If the statute expired or they lack documentation, they cannot successfully sue.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards report my debt to credit bureaus?
Yes, they can report collection accounts to credit bureaus. These accounts can significantly lower your credit score. However, they must report accurate information, investigate disputes within 30 days, and follow credit reporting laws. Medical debts under $500 cannot be reported.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards have me arrested for unpaid debt?
No. Debt collectors cannot have you arrested for unpaid debts. Debt is a civil matter, not criminal. Any arrest threats violate federal law (15 U.S.C. § 1692e). Exception: Ignoring valid court orders could result in contempt proceedings, but this requires court action, not collector threats.
Can Greenberg, Grant & Richards contact my employer?
They cannot legally contact your workplace once you’ve informed them that such calls are not allowed or are inconvenient. Continued workplace calls after this notification violate 15 U.S.C. § 1692c and provide grounds for legal action.
How can I stop Greenberg, Grant & Richards from harassing me?
Send a certified cease-and-desist letter demanding no further contact, request written debt validation, keep detailed records of all calls and communications, file complaints with CFPB and FTC, and seek legal help from The Wood Law Firm if harassment continues. Call 844-638-1122 for immediate assistance.
How can The Wood Law Firm help me?
We assist consumers by immediately stopping harassment, documenting FDCPA violations, pursuing statutory damages up to $1,000 plus actual damages and attorney fees, defending clients in debt collection lawsuits, and asserting counterclaims when collectors violate federal law. We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win.
What damages can I recover for FDCPA violations?
You can recover statutory damages up to $1,000 per lawsuit (not per violation), actual damages for emotional distress and financial losses, and attorney fees and court costs. Federal law requires the violating collector to pay all attorney fees, eliminating financial risk for consumers.
How long do I have to file an FDCPA lawsuit?
FDCPA claims must typically be filed within one year of the violation. This statute of limitations is strict, so prompt action is essential. Contact The Wood Law Firm immediately at 844-638-1122 to preserve your rights.
Why should I contact The Wood Law Firm about Greenberg, Grant & Richards?
We specialize in stopping debt collector harassment with over 15 years of experience and an A+ BBB rating. We offer free consultations, work on contingency (no upfront costs), and have successfully litigated against Greenberg, Grant & Richards and similar collectors. Call 844-638-1122 today for immediate help.
