If you've received a letter or phone call about an old debt or court judgment, you might be shocked by the amount they say you owe. But before you panic — read this.

Florida law protects you from debt collectors and lawyers who try to collect the wrong amount or sneak in extra attorney fees.

Let's break it down in simple terms.

What Is a Judgment?

A judgment happens when a court says you owe money to someone — usually from a lawsuit over a car deficiency, credit card, eviction, or other collections case.

But even after a judgment, the person trying to collect still has to follow the law.

Debt Collectors Must Tell the Truth

If a lawyer or collection agency is trying to collect on a judgment, they must:

✅ Tell you the correct amount you owe
✅ Use the right interest rate (not more than allowed by law)
✅ Ask the court before adding attorney's fees

In a recent case here in Florida, a lawyer tried to collect thousands of dollars more than was allowed — including added fees that were never approved by the court. That's not just wrong — it's illegal.

Don't Be Afraid to Ask for a Payoff Statement

If you're unsure what you owe, ask for a payoff statement. This is a written letter that shows:

💵 The amount of the original judgment
📈 The interest added
⚖️ Any fees the lawyer or debt collector is charging

You have the right to see the breakdown. If they refuse, that's a red flag.

Extra Attorney Fees? They Need a Judge's OK

Some debt collectors try to sneak in extra attorney's fees when collecting on old deficiency judgments — especially from car repossession debts. But they must go back to court and get permission before doing that.

If they didn't, you don't owe those fees.

What If the Amount Looks Too High?

If the numbers seem wrong — or you're being charged for things that weren't approved by the court — you should talk to a lawyer.

At Florida Consumer Lawyers, we know all the tricks debt collectors use, and we can help you figure out:

• What you really owe (if anything)

• If the collector broke the law

• Whether you can fight back — or even sue them

Don't Get Burned by a Bad Debt Collector

Old judgments don't give collectors a free pass to lie or overcharge you.

📞 Call Florida Consumer Lawyers today
🧾 Ask for a free review of your judgment or payoff letter
💼 Let our experienced consumer lawyers protect your rights

Florida Consumer Lawyers

Experts in collections, judgments, attorney fees, debt law, and consumer protection

🌐 www.floridaconsumerlawyers.com
📱 (813) 282-9330

We're here to help you fight back — and keep more of your money in your pocket.