Attempting to collect on a debt can be a treacherous undertaking for the unwary. A wide variety of laws protect debtors and cover debt collection practices in Michigan, from the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and the Michigan Consumer Protection Act (MCPA). Of course, any attempt to collect on a debt must be done within the confines of the law. When a business has had enough of trying to collect a debt on its own, it’s time to find a collections attorney who has the experience and know-how to collect on that debt in an effective and efficient manner. In Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and southern Michigan, that law firm is Collis, Griffor & Hendra. With over 30 years of collective experience, our collections attorneys understand how to get you what you are owed quickly and legally. Contact a commercial and consumer collections attorney from Collis, Griffor & Hendra today to learn how we can help.
Commercial Versus Consumer Debt Collections
The first step in a successful collection action is determining which set of laws applies, whether it is the laws concerning commercial debtors or the ones dealing with consumer debtors. These laws are decidedly different, and a thorough understanding of both is necessary to determine the correct course of action and collect the debt in a successful and efficient manner. At Collis, Griffor & Hendra, we specialize in both commercial debt collection and consumer debt collection. With a thorough understanding of the intricacies and nuances of these disparate laws, we can help you and your business collect on both types of debts.
Commercial Collections
Commercial debt collection, also known as business-to-business debt collection, involves debt payment from one business to another. Because businesses are assumed to be more sophisticated than consumers, commercial debt collection is less regulated than consumer debt collection. This means we can take a different approach when collecting commercial debt. At Collis, Griffor & Hendra, we are former members of the Commercial Law League of America (CLLA) and are currently listed with American Lawyers Quarterly (ALQ). Our collection lawyers comply with CLLA guidelines for forwarded accounts. Due to the ability of businesses to quickly form and disappear, we believe in taking an aggressive approach to collections, preferably commencing litigation within 30 days of account forwarding. In Michigan, the Uniform Commercial Code governs commercial transactions.
Consumer Collections
- Consumer debt collection involves collection activities between a business, which is the creditor, and a consumer, who is the debtor. This kind of debt collection is more strictly governed than commercial collection.
- Types of consumer debt include credit card debt, mortgage debt, student loan debt, auto loan debt, and bankruptcy. In Michigan, the FDCPA generally governs how debt collectors may legally operate. These laws apply to both individuals and businesses that regularly collect debts.
- Collis, Griffor & Hendra is FDCPA and MCPA compliant. Therefore, upon taking any case, we send out a 30-day notice and wait until after that time period has passed prior to filing suit. We service a wide range of industries in collections, including attorneys, accountants, small businesses, and other consumers.
Contact a Washtenaw County Commercial & Consumer Collections Attorney
Stop trying to collect debts on your own. Don’t risk violating the law while trying to recover the money you are owed. At Collis, Griffor & Hendra, we have extensive knowledge of the laws that pertain to your case — and we’re here to help you. Take advantage of our experience in collecting debts. Contact Collis, Griffor & Hendra today to learn how we can help.
