In Writing: What the New West Virigina Updates Mean for Debt Collectors

Yesterday’s Debt Collection Drill, featuring industry experts John Rossman and Mike Poncin of Moss & Barnett, focused on some changes in West Virginia collection law that might offer some relief to collection agenices working accounts in the “Wild and Wonderful” state.

West Virginia had once been described as one of the most treacherous states within which to conduct debt collection business. Collection agencies were frequently sued by consumers for contact after the consumer alleged to have retained an attorney. Some updates to the West Virginia Consumer Credit Protection Act, however, could offer both clarity and protections for collection agencies.

Specifically, the updates call for attorneys hired by consumers to submit, in writing, their name, address, and telephone number to the debt collector’s registered agent. Collection agencies will also have a 72-hour grace period between when the letter is submitted and subsequent contacts are made.

For more on the specifics of the law, make sure to listen to the most recent Debt Collection Drill.