MARSHALL - A Waskom man has filed a lawsuit against a debt collector claiming the company violated federal law by contacting him after receiving notice that he had an attorney.
Johnnie Stephens filed suit against Bureau of Collection Recovery Inc. on July 22 in Harrison County District Court. The defendant removed the case to the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division.
Stephens incurred a financial obligation from Premier Bankcard MC, which was assigned to the defendant for collection. In March 2013, Stephens' attorney contacted the defendant with a letter of representation. Despite receiving the notice, the defendant sent another collection letter to Stephens in April.
The defendant is accused of violating the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act by communicating with a consumer in connection with a debt after knowing that the consumer is represented by an attorney.
The plaintiff is seeking an award of statutory damages, court costs, and attorney’s fees.
Stephens is represented by Dallas attorney Gabriel Meyrat.
U.S. District Judge Rodney Gilstrap is assigned to the case.
Case No. 2:13-cv-00669
Waskom man sues debt collector for continuing contact
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