James Blackwell

It looks like a collection agency named M.R.S. Associates (phone number 800-535-2362) is trying to locate one of my siblings. I don't mention this becuase I have some urge to tattle-tale on a relative. I mention it because I want people to be able to find out who owns that phone number and how far they're willing to stoop.

How, exactly, did I come to learn of M.R.S.' existance? I learned of them by getting an email from my ex-wife, who got a phone call from her mother, who got a call from MRS while enjoying the comforts of her home. In simpler words, looking for one of my siblings, they called "the brother's ex-wife's mother".

I don't know what you should do if these people contact you or your loved ones (that's what lawyers are for). I can tell you what I would do if one of these companies started calling me though.

0. First, I'd work from the assumption that these are dirty, scum sucking, bottom feeding, rude assholes.

1. I would get a lawyer. Even if its an uncle or second cousin. I wouldn't expect free help and would be quick to offer to trade chores for them -- perhaps shoveling snow off their walk all summer, mowing the grass all summer, etc. Why? It would show that I respect and value their time..

2. I would _never_ admit guilt unless my lawyer told me to. If my lawyer told me to admit guilt, I'd probably either try to get another lawyer or go it alone.

3. I would google for, print out and read every page associated with the phrase "Fair Collections Act" that applies to my state. I would read it. The whole thing. Thrice.

4. I would record every phone call to the collection agency with "This call is being recorded. Today is -today- I am trying to contact MRS associates regarding record # -the reference number-. To whom am I speaking". Repeat the same for each new person on the phone you speak to. If they hang up on you, dispute the charge with the credit agencies and send along a copy of the tape showing that they refused to talk to me.

6. I would never agree to anything over the phone. Ever. Even though I was recording the call. There are plenty of examples on google of people claiming that the debt collectors . Debt collectors are notoriously forgetful about their end of the bargain once you've fullfilled your end.

7. I would tell them several times throughout the conversation that the entire conversation is only speculative and that you will only make agreements within notarized agreements.

8. I would also read info on Federal Fair credit reporting act like a hawk. The wikipedia page says fun, useful things for people that are abused by credit reporting agencies like : "Under section 15 U.S.C. § 1681s of the FCRA, a wronged party may collect $1000 for each willful or negligent act which results in the violation of the FCRA. Any person may file suit in local court to enforce the FCRA."

Good luck and be careful.