Protecting Your Rights in Florida
If you’ve been contacted by a debt collector or served with a lawsuit over an unpaid debt, you’re not alone—and you have rights. At Llorens Law, PLLC, we help individuals and business owners across Florida understand their legal options when facing debt collection efforts, and we work to defend them from unfair, aggressive, or inaccurate claims.
What Is Debt Collection Defense?
Debt collection defense involves protecting consumers and businesses from improper or unlawful attempts to collect money. While creditors have a right to pursue valid debts, they must do so within the boundaries of the law. Many collection lawsuits contain errors, lack proper documentation, or are barred by the statute of limitations.
If you’ve been sued or are receiving persistent collection calls or letters, don’t ignore them—getting informed is the first step to protecting your financial future.
Common Issues We Help With:
Being sued by a creditor or debt buyer
Responding to a collection lawsuit within the court deadline
Harassment or threats from debt collectors
Inaccurate or inflated debt amounts
Attempts to collect time-barred (old) debt
Wage garnishment and bank levies
Violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
Business debt collection disputes
Many people are surprised to learn that debt collectors often cannot prove they have the right to collect the debt in court—or that the amount they’re seeking is inaccurate. Others don’t realize they can negotiate better terms or even get the lawsuit dismissed entirely.
Your Rights Under the Law
Federal and state laws protect you from abusive collection practices. In Florida, collectors must follow rules under the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA) and the FDCPA, including:
No calls before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
No threats, harassment, or false claims
No contacting your family or employer (with limited exceptions)
Must stop contact if you request it in writing
Must provide accurate documentation if you request proof of the debt
Understanding these protections can make all the difference when dealing with collectors.
What to Do If You’re Sued for a Debt
Don’t ignore the lawsuit. You usually have 20 days to respond in Florida.
Gather all paperwork. Look for any previous notices, agreements, or payment history.
Don’t assume the debt is valid. Many lawsuits are filed with incomplete or inaccurate information.
Talk to a lawyer. Even if you owe the debt, you may have defenses—or you may be able to settle for less.