Zwicker & Associates P.C.

Read the following posts for the details about Zwicker & Associates. Feel free to report the ordeals you underwent at the behest of the harassment by Zwicker & Associates and let other victims share and learn from you

Address: 80 Minuteman Road , Andover  Massachusett, 01810

Contact Information: 800 370 2251 , 978 686 2255, 978 686 3538                                               

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Category: Collection agencies
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Comments

27. August 2009, 18:24

I unfortunately gave zwicker and associates my account and tracking number. I found since they are fraudalant. What do i do?

susan kotson  

14. November 2009, 21:02

How did you find out? I have a collection through them as well and would love any information you can share about the company before I send more $$.

Tami  

20. December 2009, 06:58

They're not a fraud but they are a collection agency working as attorneys. They are valid. Whether they are trustworthy or scummy, I don't know. But they filed for a judgement against me so they must be real enough for the court to recognize them.

Caren  

1. February 2010, 02:08

Hello fellow Zwicker targets.
Z. & Asst's take the cake! They are representing a credit card Co. in my case. The bank had changed names since my debt was incurred. I was served notice on the debt using the new bank's name and without inclusion of any other identifier such as an account #. Zwicker's people had been calling my home for weeks. Each time my wife acknowledged the debt and, offered to make a payment. In each instance she was denied. The reason given was that "They" would only accept payment if we set up an automatic payment schedule allowing them to deduct the payment directly from our account(s). I waited until they served me, then sent a certified letter reviewing our experience thus far. I included a check and stated that if they chose to accept it that it would be considered the first payment towards resolution. They did deposit the check and, sent a letter back along with my letter. They did acknowledge the payment and "encouraged" me to send another one which I will do. These guys are a hoot. The reason given for sending my letter back was that they could not legitimize it due to my signature not having been notarized which had to be done since their summons had been. Tomorrow I'll have that done and send it back to them with an additional letter (signature notarized) thanking them for their prompt attention to my situation.

Bill Ware  

20. February 2010, 22:26

About Zwicker & Ass.
WE contacted them when Mann Bracken disappeared and our payment was cashed by FIA Card Services. Initially Zwicker would not let us make a payment to them. They still had to figure out what was what with the account they got from FIA. That took some time but we got the go ahead to send in our previously agreed payment amount. At that time they still professed to not know what the balance of the account was and asked for proof of payments. We obliged and sent them more proof than they asked for. We also uncovered discrepancies (~$3000.00) with Mann Bracken's accounting which was in our favor. As of today they are purporting a balance that is way off the mark which they said was given to them by FIA. They will not give us anything in writing but told us they will send balance statements as long as we continue to make payments. How can we know if they're being truthful? Do we have any recourse since they will give us nothing in writing?

mary  

21. March 2010, 03:37

I have two paid up account with Wickers ,but am unable to receive final paperwork on them. I have been trying for over two years

Elizabeth Vondras  

30. March 2010, 13:37

An agent from Zwicker & Associates P.C. has been calling me many times everyday from blocked and unknown numbers. I requested for written debt validation. He has not sent a debt validation letter nor has he stopped calling me. He even calls on weekends. I have a ‘pay per call’ phone and these calls are increasing my bills adding to my already existing financial woes.

Peterson  

9. June 2010, 16:22

I originally had a payment plan with Mann Bracken from a personal line of credit with a bank. I gave them about $3000.00 down and made monthly payments that were auto deducted from my account. About 3-4 month ago the paymens stopped and I tried to call Mann Bracken and found out they were out of business and my debt was now with Zwicker. I contacted Zwicker and Associates they had no idea what my balance was. They asked me if I knew what it was and said they are sorting everything out and would get back to me. I haven't heard from them yet.

Sincerely, Patiently Waiting in VA

DJC  

11. June 2010, 14:00

This was great to read. Zwicker & Assoc. are advertising for a Litigation Assistant and I was about to apply, until I read these posts. As badly as I want a new job (I'm a temp right now), not for these people. I won't waste a resume on them.

Deb  

20. June 2010, 12:35

I worked for Zwicker in they Ky office. They do take people to court all the time... I seen it happen. with the setting up checks... You guys had your chance to mail in checks b4 they was retained to take over your debt and you didn't do it thats why they want a check by phone. The sending out statements their not a credit card company they don't send bills. You know what you owe and after they get a judgement they put take houses they garnish your accounts and they garnish payroll checks. Bottom line pay your bills people...... or GOOD LUCK IN COURT YOU SIGNED THE CONTRACT THATS ALL THEY NEED FOR A JUDGMENT (you can't file bankruptcy on a judgment)

Misty  

25. June 2010, 19:17

I recently called this law firm, the one located in New York (Rochcester). I spoke with the Manager, Andrew DICK! His last name literally matches his attitude. Mr. Dick even hanged up the phone on me. I did not even get a chance to explain what my reason's for calling were. All because I was doing my dad a favor to call and ask some question. Is this office not suppposed to be professional? Where the hell did these people go to school, if they did? I was transfered to Mr. Dick and the min he picked up the call he was very rude and nasty. Mr. Dick was a BIG asshole.

Caro  

30. August 2010, 11:17

Misty, maybe you should verify your statements (and grammar) before posting. Yes you most certainly CAN file Bankruptcy on a Judgement! I am a legal assistant for a Bankruptcy Lawyer. Bankruptcy law is also Federal Law, so please, no remarks on different states, different laws.

Bridget  

19. October 2010, 21:38

I sent a Cease and Desist letter but Zwicker & Associates agents call me for a personal debt. They have not troubled me in any other form but I would not like them calling me again for the debt. There are better ways to work out to settle the debt.

Richard Baker  

9. November 2010, 10:19

i have had the same problem with these people.
i tried to settle with discover only the deal fell through when payment was taken too late and account was turned over to z&a now 1 year later as my bal is almost paid up. now i have problem with the payments coming out on a monday when i spesifically asked them to take the payment out NO LATER THAN FRIDAY. well one thing led to another when i called to question that and the fact that they debited my acct more than what was agreed, the rep that i was speaking to got really nasty with me. the manager was no better. now i have a lawyer and i am suing them. i just got off the phone with my attorney office they are now in litigation, after the rep. threatedn to sue me and then hung up on me. that was what started the whole mess. I will be so happy when this is all over with.

R williams  

13. November 2010, 17:12

Hi all. I see that several people don't like dealing with Zwicker. I am an attorney in Ca. and have an action with them. I am interested in whether or not Zwicker has refused to deal in writing or through email with the majority of their targets. My client entered into a modified oral agreement that was subsequently repudiated by a different Zwicker contact.
Incidentally, Bridget is correct with regards to Misty's posting. Judgments are the reason to file bankruptcy and Misty appears to be an illiterate. It's almost as though Zwicker posted that comment, cleverly appearing to be an idiot.

bkurt31  

13. November 2010, 20:05

The people at Zwickers are idiots. They told me that I "must" give them access to my checking account. After speaking with my financial adviser, I closed that account and opened a new account that they don't have access to.

I am going to send them a certified letter, agreeing to pay the agreed upon amount through a cashier's check each month. I just don't feel good about letting them delve into my accounts. I am not paying a penny to them, however, until they agree in writing to all of this.

They have not yet sent me a letter with the terms, as it was all agreed upon over the phone. I did receive one letter stating that I agreed to the automatic debit and they did not require it. That was almost funny if it wasn't so crooked of them. I am sending a copy of that letter along with my letter, telling them that I most certainly did not agree to such a thing. They demanded it.

I am sorry so many are suffering at their hands, but it is comforting to know I'm not alone. I truly don't understand how this kind of business can legally stay in business.

classymomma  

14. November 2010, 21:36

1) If you don't want anymore calls, send a certified letter to them telling them to cease and desist and the calls will stop. They will probably just sue you, but the calls will stop.

2) It doesn't matter if a bank changes it's name or shuts down, you're still bound to the original contract. It all comes down to contractual law.

3) I think it's a great place to work. There's 2 weeks of training to make sure everyone follows the law. They are very strict with that.

4) The phones prevent us from calling from a blocked # so I don't know what Peterson is talking about...

5) Z&A doesn't have to accept any payment plan at all. Requesting it just comes in by way of automatic payments prevents them from having to chase people down for broken promises. They could just pursue further involuntary remedies once the judgment is in place. They're giving you payments (when they don't have to) yet you complain and blame shift.

6)As for bkurt31, I find it odd that an attorney would post on an open forum that he as "action" with Z&A with no specifics. Just a generalized statement that appears negative but has no back to it. Very odd.

In closing, I'm not saying all collectors are wonderful, but the calls I hear everyday (on a recorded line), show me that most consumers, lie, blame shift, and will do anything to get out of paying their debt. I catch people every single day that constantly lie to me, and it's tiring. But once in a while, I'll get a consumer that admits the debt is owed and atleast attempts to work it out. 1 good call like that out of 50 bad ones, is all I need to keep smiling.

Also, just as a tip to others, when a consumer calls the office and admits to the debt and says they want to work it out somehow, without a lot of blame shifting, I give them the best deal possible on the spot, no haggling.

I'm sure someone though will have problems with my post though. Either way, good luck with things and have a great and safe Christmas.

John Tippman  

6. January 2011, 11:00

Zwicker & Associates started calling me last week looking for my stepfather who lives 3 states away & has never resided with me. They asked me for his phone number. I told them he does not live with me & that they should look the number up in the phone book. The collector, Mike Lemmox stated that I was the only contact number they have (not true). I advised him it is against the law for them to harass me for a debt that I do not owe. Wouldn't you know, a week later a woman named Merita called me. She got the same speech. Now would someone please tell me how to get them off my case? I absolutely do not owe them or anyone else bad debt! It really irks me that these jerks have called open season on me just for being related to his wift. WTF?!

Marly  

19. January 2011, 08:14

this collection agency has put a claim against the wrong person and it is showing up on credit report. the correct person should be in the name of Ethan but they have placed it on William this is incorrect and is causing problems for the wrong persons credit, i hope you will be able to correct this and put the charge on the correct account. thank you in advance.

William  

29. January 2011, 21:26

My Discover account got sent to them and I got a phone call at work the other day from a woman at Zwicker. I tried to explain why I haven't made payments and said I could set something up after April when I move to a cheaper apartment (6 weeks away!!) but she refused. She insisted that my $500 car loan was paid off (which I don't have - my only car loan is about $8,000)and I should have the extra money to pay. I don't know where she was getting her information. She listed times when they tried to contact me through family members. Then she insisted on being put on the phone with my Human Resources or payroll department so she could garnish my wages. I told her no and hung up and now she is harassing my secretary and bosses to the point where they approached me about the situation, which is very embarrassing and I'm not sure if it's legal.

Jen  

1. February 2011, 04:42

Zwicker is a debt collector and are therefore required to abide by the FDCPA and TCPA. Based upon all the comments posted here they are in violation of these laws which are punishable by fine. You can sue them in small claims court to collect these fines. Read the FDCPA and TCPA, you could collect several thousand dollars from them for their bad behavior.

jabesv  

10. February 2011, 20:39

I tried to get them to communicate our negotiation by email and they said that they do not do that because it is not in their budget to have safeguards against hackers. Nice one huh? They think they are real smart.

Archie  

18. February 2011, 16:29

Zwicker is relentless. Their way of business has caused a near nervous breakdown and talk of divorce in an unhealthy household due to debt !
We did not accumulate this much debt purposely and feel we are being treated like scum-of-the-earth by this "company". They should concentrate on real debt-hiders and low-lifes. We just work and pay our bills and wish they would go after the fat-cats, not us.....

Leanne S  

16. March 2011, 08:50

I got rid of them on the very first call. I taped their entire conversation, and after they threatened to take away my house, advised me I had no rights, and they could "take everything I owned," I advised them they were being taped. Never heard from the "pretender lenders" again. Stand up for your rights and learn the Federal Debt Collections Practices Act.

Smart Consumer  

27. March 2011, 22:58

I have been receiving phone calls from an 800#. The callers hang up as soon as I have finished my speech... I just spoke with someone at Z&A stating that she will send my info to her IT guy and hopefully that will end these time consuming calls...

Admin Assistant  

2. April 2011, 03:17

Z & A is a collection agency/atty and they purchase your debt to original creditor. You don't owe them money but you owe debt to the original creditor. If you receive a judgement, answer them you have a defense. It's "lack of privity" is your defense. You can't be sued by someone you don't have contract with. You have contract with original creditor and not them.

josh  

2. April 2011, 03:35


Your original creditor most likely charged off the debt or written off their books. Once they do, they shouldn't collect anymore from you. They may sell it to collection agency but you don't have obligation to pay the collection agency. Your obligation is with the original debtor because that's whom you had contract with.

josh  

5. April 2011, 10:02

I was contacted by Zwicker Associates' agents who claim that I owe money to American Express Bank. I sent a letter by certified mail asking them to send me proof of my debt and told them not to contact me over the phone anymore. Even after this they contacted me and I have proofs of two such calls saved as audio files. They do not mention anything about the deb in voice mails. They just mention their company name. The calls started last month and are still going on. I have saved all the call logs and voice mails.

Jeff Young  

11. April 2011, 18:01

On repeated polite request by debt collectors of Zwicker, I gave my account number and in hours my bank was swept clean by these people. When I read classymomma's comment about Zwicker I thought her intelligence in not sharing her account number with these people. I wish I too had contacted an attorney before giving these people my account number. At the same time I am so glad that while many of us have been made fools regarding the bank details, some people are still intelligent enough not to fall in their traps.

Carol  

24. April 2011, 06:39

My family has received dozens of calls over the past few months that show up as "800 Service" on Caller ID. There is never a voicemail left. When I've answered the phone, they just hang up. I called back once a few weeks ago and found out it was Zwicker & Associates. The woman said they were looking for my father, who does not -- and has never -- lived at our number or in this state (Mass.). I told her that no one by that name lives at this number and to not call anymore. The calls continued, including three this past Sunday. I called back and told them again that no one by that name lives at this number and to not call anymore. Then on Monday: two more calls. I called back, irate, and told them that the person they're looking for does not live at this number and to not call anymore. First person transferred me to another guy, who called me a jerk, said there are 400 people at his company so not to give him attitude, and told me I can't make demands like that because he works at a law firm, not Chuck E. Cheese. Then he hung up on me. Today I filed a complaint with the Mass. AG's office, and called the local police, who told me to document all the calls and that I can file a harassment complaint if they've called more than four or five times (they called 13 times, I believe, between May 2 and May 9 alone).

Dan  

26. April 2011, 08:18

I've been getting calls from them asking for someone I've never heard of in my life. I keep explaining that I've never heard of this person, but they continue to call at ridiculous times (I work a late shift and they really enjoy calling at 8:01am). I finally got fed up and screamed at someone about harassing me being illegal (who knows what their legal rights are but it's not my debt so they really don't have a right to call me and harass me about someone I've NEVER HEARD OF). I don't really know if I can do anything about their phone calls if they call again, but it's ridiculous.

It just annoys me that companies like this use threat tactics and shady business dealings. If this company goes of business and a company just like them calls up the former employees threatening to sue because the employee couldn't pay THEIR bills...maybe they'll be eating those words they've been spewing out. One can hope....

Sarah  

26. April 2011, 13:38

Zwicker have been calling us for days. We have no debt. They're calling us looking for a deceased family member who didn't have debt either and hasn't spent any kind of money, obviously, in years. I haven't gotten to tell them that yet though because they won't tell me why they're calling.

They ask for the dead person and I ask who is calling. Answers range from "I don't have to tell you anything, lady" to "i'm not at liberty to say." I'm not giving any information out until they tell me who they are and what they want.

The first person who called was downright nasty. The woman who calls won't tell me anything except that she's recording the call. They also do crank calls where they just sort of breathe on the other end but don't say anything.

I told the caller yesterday that she is harassing us. She told me she's well within her rights in my home state of Massachusetts. I told her I don't live in Massachusetts (which is true). She said "aren't you at ....." and gave me an address that isn't mine. I told her no and she needs to do her research because the number she is calling isn't in MA and she has the wrong number and address. She told me it's an automated dialer. I told her she needs to fix that.

I'm still getting calls. Despite my telling them I don't live in that state at that address, they're still harassing us about a dead family member who has never had debt in his life. Most of them they don't say anything . Just breathe and eventually hang up. I only know it was Zwicker from Googling the number.

Sue  

30. April 2011, 17:20

i have no debt yet this company continues to call my home. i have called them twice and have been hung up on twice. once because i would not provide my social security number and once after confirming they had no debt collection account for me and said they could not stop the calls.

paul  

12. May 2011, 06:28

Josh is most likely wrong. Read your contract before you quote someone online. Contracts usually have wording like "Its successors and or assigns". This means that the interest they have in your debt can be transferred. Companies do this all the time. My personal credit card has changed lenders five times due to bank mergers. Transferrence of the debt to other parties is just one of many items stipulated and agreed upon at contract signing. If your contract does not have this language (unlikely) then maybe Josh's theory holds true.

Elizabeth  

14. May 2011, 12:54

These guys are frauds. I too had a settlement and payment plan set up with Mann Bracken who went under half way through payment. I finished my payments in full by October last year. Last week, I got a letter from the courts that Zwicker had served a Writ of Garnishment of Property Other than Wages on this already paid and settled debt. I was never contacted about any discrepancies so they had to have gotten the Writ through via fraud. I have an attorney and preparing to sue!

Christine  

22. May 2011, 22:05

I got a call from Z&A tonight. I wasn't home and it's on my caller ID. After reading all these posts I will never answer their calls. I have a credit card that the bank lowered my credit limit on. I had it for 8 years, was never late on payments, always paid more than min payments and paid them two weeks early! By them doing this they have destroyed my credit score. I had an emergency come up and I asked them to work with me. They refused. I called a lawyer and found out that because I'm disabled and have no taxable income that I was considered judgement prof! I stopped paying on that card because I could no longer afford to pay living expenses.

I will wait until I get something in writing before I send them a cease contact letter. If I have to I will call legal services again and have them handle it!

disabled  

25. May 2011, 04:24

Christine:
Just take the paid in full receipt to the court and have the judgment and and garnishment vacated-not attorney required.

Sandanger  

18. June 2011, 20:07

From what I've gathered, Zwicker seems to be a collection agency posing as attorneys for AMEX and other CC companies, even though it is they who have bought the bad debt for pennies on the dollar while AMEX, et al., have already charged off the debt. How they get away with this I don't know. We live corrupt and incestuous corporate evironment. Based on other accounts of people who've been sued by them as well as my own experience I come to have this opinion. Hopefully soon this will a conclusion as well. Having become disabled 5 yrs. ago, I managed to stay afloat for 3 yrs. and 2 surgeries before I had to default on my CC accounts. After corresponding with them about my situation to no avail didn't work, I began getting the collection letters and calls. Systematically I began to send certified letters to each, challenging them to provide valid contracts, proof of agency, and legal standing in the case, etc. If they couldn't, then a tacit agreement had been reached which showed they were 3rd part interlopers, the alleged debt was a fraud and they could not pursue the matter further. This stopped them dead in their track and the first letter I got from them was the last on most occasions. When this is the case you can be sure that they (the collectors) have no legal standing. What happened after that was that some of them resold the account to another agency and I would go through the same routine again. Zwicker and the Acces were one of the agencies that picked up an account on the second try. After challenging them in writing, they too disappeared. Now they are back with another second hand account (Amex)two years later and I've been summoned to court for breach of contract. This time they'll have to provide their documents to the court. I reserve the right to be wrong, but when a CC acount is defaulted on, the company charges it off and collects insurance (or probably have already securitized it and sold it off like the mortgage scams). How they can sell it for pennies to a collection agency after that I don't know, but they do. Regardless, the collection agency has no legal standing or interest in the case which is why they cannot provide legal documents. One big fraud my friends. Any lawyers out there are welcome to chime in.

Patrick  

5. July 2011, 13:11

I have been getting phone calls from this agency for a little over a month now. The person who has been handling my account is William Hernandez, a very rude and immature person. One of the many perks about having an education, is that one can use it times like this. I did my research about m debt that I rightfully owe, and to what extent these collectors can collect on it.

The first several conversations I had with them were decent, I even made a deal to start paying on it. I was told that it is in litigation (my student loan), and that the attorney is just "waiting" to process the paperwork to go to court.

That in itself is a basic threat tactic, when one uses leverage (court) to gain something over someone else (money/ debt). Debt collectors are NOT allowed to partake in that form of collecting. I informed William that I was recording the call, and that if you are using an auto-dialer, that this was in violation of the FTC- Telephone Protection Act. This stipulates that if you personally did not give consent to a firm using an auto-dialing device, that agency is in violation of federal regulations. Each attempt or call is punishable to $500 a call, and every subsequent call placed to your phone afterwards.

These collectors do no count on people knowing the law or rules, but if you are smart, know what you are doing, you are a well informed citizen. Don't let people take advantage of you, even if you rightfully owe debt. Collectors make incentives off of their work (I used to work for a collector in 2008). They have projected targets and incentives that they must/ want to make.

It is in their best interest to collect that money owed, so they can have a job as well, but they are not professional about it, or humane.

Derek  

16. July 2011, 06:29

i've read through all this. I was working with a debt settlement company for 2 years - trying to get this debt settled. I was diagnosed with cancer and got overwhelmed with medical bills. Farrel and seldin, a debt collection agency backed by attorneys is now suing me. they would only settle at 80% of the debt. About 30% of the debt is fees, interest, late payment fees that I had to incur in order for the debt settlement company to start working the negotiations. In the summons/complaing they gave the name of plaintiff as DISCOVER and the address of DISCOVER as c/o Zwickerand Associates. I will answer the complaing next week -- then a court date will be set.. its really been upsetting to me. I was just trying to settle my debts so that they would be paid off and not left to my daughter when I pass away... Hope someone has some ideas... ive been reading over the internet and see that sometimes you can win as long as you request the proper infomration form these debt collectors. most of the time they present false information or they cant produce proper documentation.

weezey  

21. July 2011, 11:10

Weezey, since you are willing to settle the debt, they should'nt be giving you so much of a problem. Know your rights, before you proceed onto anything. Send them a cease and desist letter, if they do not have a proof of your debts. If you are undergoing debt collector harassment, in any way that violates the FDCPA, you can very well SUE them!hope this helps...

John K  

28. July 2011, 01:09

suc

super  

28. July 2011, 17:24

I have come to the conclusion that whatever they tell is a lie, and their sole purpose is manipulating and bullying people out of money.How else would you describe this?My Discover account ended up with Zwicker.Suspicious.I've made payments directly to discover, but I'm still being contacted by these people.Contacted is a subtle word.Threatened would be more like it.They do not provide me any info on anything else apart from the tag line "this will go far"I'd like to know more about the class action suit against Zwicker.

Dawson-CA  

2. August 2011, 20:34

I started making payment arrangement with Zwicker in Nov2010. Today, after making over $2000 payment they told me that I ran out of my payment arrangement and I now have to pay the full amount. Well, I didn't want to hear the rest of what they have to say so I hung up. They never told me last year that the payment arrangement is only for 9 months. They are a bunch of liars. This is just crazy!!!

I was willing to continue paying until my debt is paid off. I don't have money to pay the entire balance which is around $3K. I have 4 daughters and my husband is in disability. They don't seem to consider anything.

I don't know what to do now. Please advise. Thank you.

mom of 4  

3. August 2011, 04:17

You made a payment arrangement??You gotta be kidding.
Third party collecting agencies give arrangement options only to fiddle out people's money. They claim the debt can be totally eliminated or reduced to a drastic extent.They take a great deal to complete the payment of debt, meanwhile the person is still paying the debt with interest.This whole thing is a scam where they convince us to agree to a payment arrangement of sorts, and finally come out saying the payment has to be made in full. A fraudulent agency would never mention to us that some creditors are non-negotiable. They'll make you pay for their own costs and thats it.
However If you have all the paperwork in place and proofs of your payment you are safe. If they ask tell them the same and that you'll produce them in court if required. That should stop them.

Take a Hike Zwicker  

9. August 2011, 13:32

-Calls for someone unknown
-Calls every single day and several times a day
-No identification-unknown name and number
-Say they use an auto-dialer(seriously, what's the point?)
-Give hang-up calls all the time
This is-I don't even know what term to use for it.I'm reallllly annoyed.They are asking me for a lot of personal information which I refused point blank.I'm not even the person they want, but still going after my account and other details is just not done.
I'm going through details on how these companies create bogus debt via information.I do not want to be a victim of that.
Coming back to the calls, I spoke to my phone rep and asked if we could trace the calls, record them.
I was told that just the recording would be enough to prove that its an illegal call.
I wouldn't have to go to these terms if they stopped in the first place.

Ron  

11. August 2011, 12:36

Zwicker and Associates again after 3 years?!!!HeLPPP!!

Dealt with them back in 2008 for the payment on a discover card. I can safely say that it was not a pleasant experience at all.I payed my debt, it was over and done.

Now,2 days ago they left a message on my answering machine saying I had a due of 350$ on a credit card back in 2006. I don't remember anything on this and have been checking up on my cards to make sure.I don't want to go over the same hassles over and over again. I even changed my number.Don't know how they got hold of this number.Its like once doomed, always doomedFrown


I'm moving to Oregon for a job now, and don't want them to haunt me over there.

M  

14. August 2011, 14:01

I settled a claim through Ragan and Ragan for them and have been paying faithfully for over a year now. Wanting to know how much I have paid and what I still owe, (never having been given any info re this), I called R&R and had a hard time getting Z & Assoc. name & certainly no phone so, here I am. I am blown away seeing all the bad things re them. I want to ask them how they have the gall to charge interest. Think they will
speak to me????????????????????

BARBARA  

15. August 2011, 03:59

Barbara, Zwicker and Associates are a third party collection agency. When you pay a collection agency, make sure you take the proof of your payments. If you've been paying for a year, the interest rate would have increased, did they mention that to you? Please take everything in writing or they can continue taking payments from you even after there's no outstanding debt.

These are a few of the numbers:

800-370-2251
978-686-2255
800-594-7323
8005947323

The address:
Zwicker & Associates PC
80 Minuteman Road
Andover
Massachusetts
01810
Fax
978-686-3538

You can also send them a letter through certified mail, directly to their address asking for the proof of your payments if they ask for more, also do not be wavered by threats or refusal(if it happens). Make it clear that they will be reported to.
If you do not want them to contact you further at all, please send them a cease and desist letter.Do not give out any account details etc.,

John K  

17. August 2011, 09:21

If my credit report shows items as charged off(by the original creditor itself), can Zwicker still continue to collect on this debt?A little light on this please?

Anybody  

21. August 2011, 18:27

American Express card?Yeah, same here.If it is a charge-off paid, or charge-off settled, that itself is proof of your payments.They cannot collect from you. But, if its unpaid and charged off, I think it would depend on the SOL in your state.

Mick  

25. August 2011, 22:38

Zwicker sent a freak to my office, who jumped off a large no trespassing sign on our gate and threw summons at my feet.

How can I file a court response and what can I include in them?

Heck!!!  

4. September 2011, 10:47

Zwicker is attempting to collect debt from a mentally challenged family member. We did not know this family member had credit card debt until her mother passed away last year and when we started helping balance her checkbook, etc we found she had over 20,000 in cc debt! Whoa how did this happen when she receives Social Security and the small amount she makes at a bakery working part time. We found out that certain department stores talked her into signing up for credit and "helped" her so she could receive a discount that day. Very unethical. Also her mother helped run up these credit cards when hers maxed out. She passed away and left us with the mess. I noticed on Zwickers letters they do not show they can practice law in Missouri so how can they sue my family member and if she is judgement proof how can they do anything to her? We tried to explain what happen to the OC and even paid off some of the small bills but there is no way we can pay over 15,000 for the rest of what she owes. Anyone have any advice? We did not know about this until after 7 months when her mother passed away. Very frustrating because she has no idea how all this debt came about and with most all of her cards not being signed on the back, we feel her mother could have used them without her knowing? Wouldnt the credit card company be negligent because they did not verify her income? If they would have looked at her income they would have saw that she would never be able to pay this back and she lives in a apartment for disabled persons? When do these credit card companies have to take responsiblilty for being so neglegent?

Jane  

6. September 2011, 06:10

i was sued by zwicker a few months ago. i had never heard of them or the company they were sueing me for. i responded to the summons telling the court i never heard of either one of those people. i got a judgement against me because i didnt file the paper that wanted my name dob social security number etc. i told the judge if they were sueing me and i owed them a debt they should have all that info in an application. so now i have a judgement and i still dont have a clue who they are. i got papers today from zwicker that want my bank info the title to my car and god knows what else. they must think i was born last nightwith the name stupid tatooed on my forehead. i wouldnt give that info to my own kids let alone someone i never even heard of.

becky  

6. September 2011, 10:05

Depending on the severity of your family member, she may be protected from the creditors or the collection agencies. Not just anyone can enter into a legal contract.
I strongly believe no credit card company or collection agency would be able to use the legal system to force her to pay.If they threaten to sue her or garnish her wages or take other action etc etc., they won't be able to attach her income. In many cases they won't even be able to attach the wages from her part time job.If they do the amount they would take would be extremely meagre.
More than the credit card company, I would think her mother's at fault. Companies usually do not give credit if they knew the condition.Anyway, you can ask the credit reporting agencies to note her reports so that she doesn't receive further credit without knowledge.
Also, the amount here is huge and if Zwicker threatens a lawsuit, unless your family member has significant assets, they won't be able to collect a single penny.
You payed off a few small bills, that would have given Zwicker enough proof that you can pay, so whoever payed may be the one they further try to contact so beware. So, all in all I would suggest you just enquire with an attorney or the FTC.They will give you better info on where it stands and how you'd have a hold here.Hope this helps.

Derek  

8. September 2011, 17:33

To becky: A judgment says you owe the debt and THEN they have to collect from you.Check if you genuinely owe the debt, how many years old it is, since you said you are not aware of the credit company either.If not then:
Make them prove with exact documentation every single penny they are trying to collect from you. Never give in. Please hire a good attorney who'll help you (you can also file a counter claim).Also, get to know what rights you are entitled to and how you can proceed on it. Act soon.
Usually On the junk/delinquent debt buyers cases, they will dismiss the case if you demand to see ALL of the acquisition papers - including how much they paid for the account, proof that it is you debt, the proof of the amount, proof that they own your account-anything, everything.
About the bank info etc., I do not know much on how to respond to those papers(it might be best if you can check up on that) but I can say this.DO NOT give out your bank info/personal info EVER. It will be swiped clean before you know it.

A last thing, if you are asked to show up in court please do, whoever doesn't show up in court loses by default.Also, learn at least the basics of how the courts work - rules of procedure and rules of evidence. The more your learn about the relevant law (for debt collection) and how to move (or hold up) the legal process the better.Know the rights, hire an attorney and fight back.

Derek  

9. September 2011, 14:36

Thanks Derek for the response. i went to court and the judge had a paper already signed that said i owed a debt to wachovia. i bank with wachovia i dont have a credit card with them just a checking and savings. and i told the judge that. he did not want to know any information. never asked me anything. he just handed me the paper and said thank you. I was surprised about the unfair and unbalanced justice. but i guess thats what goes on in court. anyone can just summons you in and say thanks for coming your guilty. if i were a criminal i would have the right to an attorney for free. but since i am just a working class single parent and cant afford the 3500. for a lawyer too bad. i'm not angry because i believe in "pay cesar what is owed to cesar" but since i know i do not owe this i dont care. i'm just surprised in how our justice system worked.

becky  

9. September 2011, 23:59

YOU ARE BEING CHARGED FOR DEBT WHEN YOU DON'T EVEN OWE ANY DEBT?COME ON!!DO SOMETHING.There are many attorneys who don't take any fee unless you win the case-the collection agency pays them.They'll do a free case review at least. Why do you want to let them go so easily?You don't owe debts=you dont pay.At least make a start on this. Ask questions.How did the judge hand over papers?How did your account end up with Zwicker when you only have savings with them?Anyway the cause of action is up to you.But, letting them go will let them do the same to many others.

Derek  

12. September 2011, 00:45

I owe some money to credit cards and was served, what appears to be a legal paper, it says "complaint for monies due and owing" where I am the defendent and American Express is the plaintiff. I later noticed that, where it says "Case Number" there is no number?? Could this a fake paper, it says I have to respond in 20 days. Is this a trick? how can I tell?

Johny  

13. September 2011, 05:21

Hi, Getting “served” means that you have been given notice of the lawsuit. You are served if you are handed a copy of the summons and complaint or if a summons and complaint is given to someone “of suitable age and discretion” at your home.

An answer is a formal, legal document. A civil lawsuit is not a criminal lawsuit. There is no court date, yet; there is just a due date. You have 20 days to serve an answer to the complaint. Serving, in this case, means mailing the answer to the opposing party’s attorney. You also must fill out an affidavit of service when you do this.

In an answer, you must respond to each allegation (usually numbered paragraphs) in the complaint. Be careful not to admit anything that you do not know for a fact to be true. For example, in a debt collection case, if you do not know what your account number was, you cannot admit that you owe on an account with a specified number. Instead, you have to state that you do not know, and deny it. However, if you still have your credit card or statements, and they show the same account number, you may have to admit this.

Also be careful if you see more than one allegation in one sentence or paragraph. For example, the allegation “Defendant owes Plaintiff $1,400 on a Providian credit card, account number 1234 2345 3456 4567″ contains several allegations: (1) Defendant owes Plaintiff $1,400; (2) for a Providian credit card; (3) with the specified account number. You can probably find some more allegations in there, as well.

This is why having an attorney can be very helpful.

When you said "case number" did you mean the "file number"? If the papers you received have no file number, the plaintiff may have decided to deliver (or serve) the papers to you before filing them with the court. The law allows this. You are still bound by the time limit listed in your Summons. But you may not need to file your Answer with the court yet. You will still have to deliver a copy to the plaintiff's lawyer (or the plaintiff if s/he has no lawyer). Read your Summons carefully. It should tell you what to do.

Also, there is no evidence of whether are papers are legitimate or fake and it would be best if you enquire the same with an attorney and respond accordingly, because, if the summons are indeed real you'd have to respond within the said 20 days.Please do check on the statute of limitations in your state before you proceed.


The best course is to hire a consumer rights lawyer. If you don’t think you can afford one, call one anyway. You may be surprised. Many lawyers can help you with “unbundled services,” where you pay only for the help you need.


Pete Cobler-FL  

19. September 2011, 23:14

Marly,

According to federal laws, it is illegal for a collection agency to call a debtor's relatives. In fact they can be sued for a $1,000.00 for each time they call a relative of yours. Keep tabs on the calls and then find a good consumer rights lawyer.

Rob Murbach  

20. September 2011, 09:33

I showed the paper to my lawyer and he said that it was indeed real, although it did not have a case number. I basically faxed them my responce back, which worked. I was trying to buy time and I told them that I lost my credit card info,I am not sure what my balance is, I asked for my agreement. They immediately responed back with a copy of my agreement and other details (within 3 days). I don't care now because I am filing for bankruptcy - ha ha.. my lawere will be calling them to tell them that I am filing chapter 7, but I thought I should share, good luck to everyone...

Johny  

20. September 2011, 13:31

Filing for bankruptcy has both pros and cons. It stays on your credit report for 10 years. That would also make it much more difficult to obtain credit, buy a house, car or get any other financing.Not impossible, just harder, and your interest rates may be a little higher. Bankruptcy should usually be the last resort if you cant afford to pay your bills, have no savings, your budget wont stretch, and if you cant handle the financial stress. Think well before you do.
But, on the other hands creditors are quite happy to know you cant file for another 7 years, so some happily extend credit right away.Sometimes, its a good option to get out of financial worries and lets us come out of it better(coming from someone whoz already been through).Tip:Make sure you are protecting your assets(property etc)while filing for it.Think back and forth before you file for it.Get out of debt if you can. Ask your lawyer A LOT of questions pertaining to your finances and if its the right way to handle this.

Allie Brosh  

22. September 2011, 04:06

Thanks for the note, unfortunately I don't have a choice, I guess I can pull whatever I have in my 401K and pay all of my debt but I don't think this is a good idea. It will cost me around 1500$ to file, I don't have any property even a car. They told me that if I had a car that is worth more than 3500$, after I file Ch7, they may take it.

Johny  

23. September 2011, 22:19

Dimwits call at 6am looking for a guy who owned the house 16 years ago!!!!Creeps.

Charlie  

1. October 2011, 05:28

Hey does anyone know what P.C stands for in zwicker & associates PC?Are they somehow a law firm or only a collection agency?

Also do they purchase the said debt or simply collect on their behalf?Cos I got letters in the mail that I owe to a company.I've been making monthly payments to the company directly cos I signed it with them so how can that happen?

Thanks in advance

MIke  

4. October 2011, 13:09

P.C stands for professional corporation. I have no idea if they are a law firm. But they did mention commercial Collections, professional collections, secured Collections, civil litigation as areas in law somewhere.
They are a third party collection agency that purchase on delinquent debts.
Try calling the company directly and asking about it.They may be able to tell you if you owe the debts in question and if you can continue making payments directly to them without having to deal with Zwicker.
All depends on the company you owe, they might have sold off your debt so contact them. Retain any agreements you made and keep proof of all payments.

Eva Mc Lauren  

8. October 2011, 07:46

I am working with a debt settlement company on a Discover card with Zwicker and Associates. They do not want to negotiate for less than 80% with no payments.After reading this forum I went and checked the court records. Supposedly there was a complaint on 7-15, a summons on 7-25 and appearance on 8-18 another appearance on 9-18 a couple of alias orders and another alias summons to atty and another appearance scheduled for novermber. We have not received any paper or correspondence on any of these court entries nor would I have found out if i hadn't been suspicious. I am hiring a lawyer and hopefully can get out of this mess.

Diane  

9. October 2011, 03:43

I worked for this place a couple of years ago and they are legit however, they do some things I didn't agree with. Legal but unethical. Asking a debtor to sell cars, jewelry, etc. I think that if someone had those kind of assets they wouldn't have to worry about paying a debt. To the person who said Zwicker doesn't have the capability to call from a blocked number WRONG just dial *67 before dialing the phone I did it every day. You are allowed to call relatives but you can't disclose information to a 3rd party but you can try to TRICK a 3rd party into giving you information. If you want them to quit calling your cell phone write them a letter and tell them or tell them when they call that this is a cell phone and you are incurring me more debt; a debt collector cannot try to collect by incurring more debt on the debtor. I have more but I feel this is all public information. You can find answers to all your debt collection questions by using Google.

marcie marks  

9. October 2011, 03:47

Oh but I do want to add: Zwicker will settle a debt for more than 80% that is where they start. Depending on the contract with the Creditor they can go lower but the longer you wait the better your chances are of getting a lower settlement if you have enough to pay it the day they call. If you owe less than 1200.00 or so chances are they won't take you to court.

marcie marks  

9. October 2011, 03:49

They are a law firm corporate office in Mass. licensed in a lot of the US States

marcie marks  

9. October 2011, 09:04

Went to peremptory court. Plaintiff did not show thought I would get judgement in my favor not! ladies in the court room who set the position look back at some other attorney and ask if he was in there doing something else for Chase and he was. When the judge asked for motions that attorney who asked me for info said he was all ready to move for trail.I motion for a dismissal and the judge denied.Then as the judge was setting us for court in future set it for a date she new he had other cases. I told her he knew nothing of my case and she ask him if he had power to try this case and he said no. The attorney who was supposed to show no longer worked for Zwicker. Can this happen?

Lee  

9. October 2011, 11:19

A peremptory challenge is still in controversy. If the attorney no longer worked for Zwicker thats probably the reason he didn't show up, and usually if the Plaintiff or whoever doesn't show up, the other party wins the default judgment. Since, this other attorney you speak of knows nothing about your case, and is not approved by you, I dont think he can take up you case without your consent. Anyway there seem to be quite a few loopholes here which I'm uncertain of. If you are going to trail again, I'd suggest you enquire with a good attorney. Nobody can play around then.

Earl Micho B  

9. October 2011, 11:29

Referring to Diane, I'm in a similar problem too. After making half the payments, now I get to know I had summons. There was no notice nothing. Even an attempt to contact me wasnt made and all in July from nowhere. I didnt even deny any payments. I spoke to my state attorney. Getting the papers ready. Is this a new tactic from Zwicker? Good luck to all.

Alice  

9. October 2011, 23:40

How can this sleezy firm stay in business. Can't the court system do something to these guys and their unethical tactics?

Diane  

11. October 2011, 03:45

Im telling you man that day is not far off when the debt collectors and agencies themselves go bankrupt. It'll be great fun to see an ex-debt collector being harassed by another.

October  

12. October 2011, 04:12

I think we are all in agreement this firm is shady and unethical. I wish a class action law suit on this so called lawyer debt collector firm woulod happen. Then this scum firm would see how it feels to be harrassed.

Diane  

13. October 2011, 11:22

WOW! I cannot believe these jerks are still in business. If you search the internet there are all kinds of complaints against this scummy outfit dating back to 2005. Where is our justice system now!
I hope Z&A (a standing for assholes) reads every one of these complaints against them.

Astonished  

14. October 2011, 15:05

To all those who are having problems with this firm, sent a complaint to your States Attorney Generals office.

Diane  

16. October 2011, 12:45

This so called company called me to threaten me for a suit. As a matter of fact, it was actually for a debt Im not liable for. My tenant who leased my apartment upstairs(he's no more now) has debts for the bills on utilities etc. I have been hounded for a year straight and was asked to settle the account before further action is taken against me.
It all started when a certain mail I got to my address was from Zwicker and thinking it to be the right thing to do, I mailed it back to them. Thereafter all I got in the mail was threats and then the phone calls started.
This is so twisted and plain wrong.Everybody seems to face problems with them.Reading all these is making me really mad.How am I liable for this debt?How can I stop them contacting???

Bogus debt that I do not owe  

21. October 2011, 18:34

I HATE THESE EVIL & WICKED PEOPLE

Damn  

26. October 2011, 14:23

I am having trouble getting them to return a call after going to court but finding out what they want to settle since they are determined to garnish my wages. I have taken the last of any retirement I have out so as to pay down and mo pympts but after reading this today not sure it will be applied or done correctly but can not afford to be garnished. I have called two days in a row and had to leave messages without a single return call.

Pamela  

28. October 2011, 02:16

How notorious are they! Zwic people calling me.Nobody ever leaves a message and the times I pick up they wont say anything and the call hangs up.Im sick of it. I happen to have a good credit and no delinquent debts at all.I never received any letters or reports saying I owe a penny.I have been a victim of a credit card fraud once though. I've been very careful since then.I dunno how that'll go with these people but they dont even talk wen they call first. This agency has obviously purchased old accounts. I wish I could get these sleepyheads stop calling my number they have no reason to call me. Can I file a complaint further?

NYC  

3. November 2011, 05:23

I received over eight calls per day from Zwicker's lawyers office. Every time the person calls I indicated clearly that I was not the person they are calling for.

The first time when I told the same to the guy there was a gap for about a week and he called back again. I asked him to stop calling my number.Then a lady. I asked her where she was calling from, and she said"I'm not telling you".I hung up.She continued to call far many times.

And now someone else is calling and yelling for debts. I said you have the wrong number, I specified it many times.He says "why dont you call the police then". Here im trying to explain and these guys are so indignant always searching for arguments and dont listen.When I block one number they are calling from other numbers.Why should I go through all this when its not even me they want.I wonder how many complaints reach their office each day.

Leah  

4. November 2011, 22:08

Over here Zwicker sues for FIA Card Services - FIA is NOT Bank of America, it is a separate corporation, a SUBSIDIARY of Bank Of America Corporation (FIA,s predecessor, besides MBNA Bank, is Banc America Credit Card Services, LLC). Don't be fooled - FIA is not suing as a National Bank, it is suing as an LLC but fails to tell the court - apparently so it can circumvent State law.
FIA (and Zwicker) use robo-signer affidavits (2 piece, did you notice?). File complaint re the Notary with the North Carolina Secretary of State, they will check the affidavit and if it doesn't comply with North Carolina law, they will send written response that can be used against Zwicker if the affidavit was falsely-sworn.

simon  

8. November 2011, 20:25

Im being sued. This is seriously the last straw!Robo affidavits and what not. The papers they give are summons, civil court case cover, complaint-contract, cause of action and declaration pursuant. There's no evidence provided at all. Screw Zwicker.. The papers say I'm being sued but the last four digits of the account they mentioned do not end with the same numbers as mine. The whole thing is a mess. I do not know who to approach for the clarification. Theres not my address or anything on any of the papers forget that even the account number is wrong!I do know that anything needs to be done before the 30 days, but I did want to clarify about the account etc.,Please, how do I approach this?I know once I call them it'll be many times worse.

Dave  

9. November 2011, 15:40

Zwicker & Associates is a shyster law firm which functions primarily as a debt collector. In 2003, one of the attorneys, Kenneth Zwicker was found guilty of one count of mail fraud, was placed on suspension by the Massachusetts State Bar in 2004, and subsequently permanently disbsarred in 2005. The are very well known for harassment and unlawful collection practices.

Kol  

10. November 2011, 07:15

Why don't they shut them down?How is a collection agency and a "law firm" that is supposed to abide by the law allowed to get away with things like frauds and scams????Harassing people itself is huge and these guys took it a step ahead by being attorneys themselves and going illegal. FDCPA mandates that a collection agency has to be upfront about the actions a consumer can take . Far from it they mislead and sue. I say a class action suit needs to be in order so they cant be vile enough next time and think before they do.

Kristen  

11. November 2011, 21:54

They have called my job almost every single morning for the last few months. I have asked them 4 or 5 times to not call my job and they still do. I tried working something out with them, but they won't budge much. I am about to file for bankruptcy. I do have one judgement against me and one going against my wife. I was working with a Debt Consolidation company for 8 months and got screwed. Now I am really screwed, losing my house as well.

Ernesto  

16. November 2011, 18:56

To Ernesto, debt consolidation companies are not so reliable.Trust me. Debt settlements and the whole. YWe make another debt to pay of one debt.Makes sense? And debt collectors cannot call your workplace if you ask them not to. That is a violation of the FDCPA. Don't let them scare you with judgements. Appear in court and show proofs. If they call you at work place, uneven times, abuse etc., record the calls. The more you document the more you benefit. Why dont you consult a good attorney?Some of them do a free case review.Bankruptcy may or may not be a good option.An attorney can tell you the best course. Fight back.

Cooper  

19. November 2011, 19:25

People at Zwicker called our agency looking for a person who works for us. They cannot do that, can they?
However I told them not to call at the work place and that my coworkers cannot take personal calls during business hours. They persisted to talk, I asked them to call the person directly. They hung up, and now the calls continue.
We even blocked a number but now they are calling from other numbers. I told them we would have no choice but to take legal action. Looking at the complaints here looks like the calls will probably continue.

Mc Kerner  

23. November 2011, 05:01

They said they were looking for Liz Becker. So I called back and told them who I was and that I was not the person they were looking for and the address was also wrong.
This jerk I spoke to was extremely rude and said he could not find any 'Becker' in his list. Is it that hard to run a phone number search in a database?Please!!
Anyway I dont care how they got my number. If its a mismatch fine.At least believe me when I say its a wrong number. The calls continue and Im in two minds to lodge a complaint too.

Blazey  

7. December 2011, 02:58

Beware of this "law firm". Im guessing they like to call themselves so to give a little credibility. They are nothing more than a fraudulent company. Not to mention abusive.
What most people do not know is during training in the company the employees are taught every possible intimidating practice possible.
Collect-thats the only goal. Sometimes even if you do not owe anything. Yes, its true and they also get bonuses for collecting-any form.
The main string is many many consumers are not exactly aware of their rights. A few of them who do are careful. With the others who are not it could take years to recover unpaid accounts or to clarify directly and solve it out. They are instructed NOT to notify the credit bureaus of settlements. Its a tip of the iceberg.
The most corrupted tactics possible can be found at Zwicker.If this company calls know your rights, read the FDCPA. It helps in more ways than you'd know. Hire an attorney immediately and put a stop to their practices. The more people do, the harder it'll get for them. A last thing is always record the calls. Tell them you are doing it. It'll help.

Read This  

17. December 2011, 18:53

These wonderful people would take any pain to collect the debt AND also GIVE any pain to collect the debt.They are a nightmare and absolutely not to be trusted. So far I've filed two complaints and one with my state attorney general's office. Im not a debtor who owes money but the way they treat people is just.........

Nicole  

18. December 2011, 21:44

Wow, after reading all this I will never ever answer the phone or accept anything from these fraudulent people. They call us like 20 times in a day- Their messages are lame as well. Scumbags.....

Kathy  

23. December 2011, 05:15

Someone from Zwicker & Associates and hung up every time I answered. I returned the call and was put on hold for a long time. I called at their 978 number in Andover and the operator answered. I informed her that I had a complaint. She transfered me to a person and then it went to voice mail(???). I left a message with my company's name and asked them to stop calling, also saying someone calls and hangs up without talking and that the calls cease. I searched for them and found this-that there are many others receiving annoying phone calls.

Tim  

26. December 2011, 06:30

They Called me today got extremely upset and snippy with me when I kept telling them I am disabled, have no money or income and if I did I would be paying my bills and they wouldn't even be dealing with me. They then told me that the only way I could make payment to them is if I gave them My bank account number and routing number and I only have a few days to do this before I will "have my credit destroyed" and will "Be in the lawyers hands". Now keep in mind here I have received nothing but this phone call from them today and they want all my banking information. Yes I am in full agreement that I made the debt but when you become disabled, you are under 30 and you have no income it is impossible to pay anything at all. After reading every thing about this firm I can not wait for the harassment to start. There are also several accounts of this firm bringing people to court and not sending them the summons or any paperwork at all. There needs to be a class action suit against these people for all the illegal things they do!

X  

1. January 2012, 17:03

I had a court date for a Target bill that I couldn't keep up with due to unexpected circumstances beyond my control. Target got Zwicker to represent them. I actually had gone into debt consolidation, but that agency couldn't include my Target account because I had just been notified about going to court. When I went to court, a lcal Zwicker lawyer called me outside, and we agreed on a settlement to pay off the amount listed on the docket paperwork. I have been sending the payments two weeks ahead of their due date and never been late. Now, just over a year later, I find out that they have been charging interest on the amount, and according to Zwicker, they say I owe more than the original amount that I agreed to pay off! There is NOTHING anywhere in writing saying that they would be adding interest, or an APR amount, or anything. The managet at the Zwicker number I called said "You agreed to pay interest to Target, what makes you think we wouldn't be charging interest?" I said this agreement was with Zwicker, not Target, and I was not informed either orally or in writing that they would be adding interest. I asked why they don't send statements (if they did, I'd have seen this added interest 13 months ago!!), aqnd they said they're a law form, not a collection agency. But they ARE a collection agency! They even say on their phone messages that any information they receive will be used to collect a debt. Does that not make them a collection agency!? They use this verbage to weasel out of sending statements, and they do not make it easy to communicate. I have a snail-mail address, but why no web site and why no correspondence FROM THEM via email OR snail-mail?

SH  

1. January 2012, 17:08

X - I'm with you on the class-action suit. Anyone know how to get this started? I agree to pay the amount shown on my court docket with the agreed-upon paynebt amounts, and nothing more...i.e. I will not pay any of the interest they added since the court date, because I was never infrmed, either verbally or in writing that they would add interest. And if they had told me this verbally, I would have asked for that in writing.

SH  

2. January 2012, 12:38

OK here's a little data on a class action suit.

Watched Erin Brockovich? Yeah, goes something like that.Ok, anyway:
There are 4 requirements to proceed with a class action.

1. Number - enough plaintiffs to make class action an efficient way to handle the claim.

2. Commonality - common issues of fact and law for each claimant

3. Adequacy of Class Rep - the person who is the class representative needs to have claims that are the same as the class members and that they are capable of serving as the representative.

4. Adequacy of Counsel - that the law firm representing the class has sufficient skill and resources to represent the class.

A certified class action suit is one brought on behalf of a large group of people as plaintiffs who have suffered some similar harm from the same actions of the defendant or defendants. A certified class action suit is one brought on behalf of a large group of people as plaintiffs who have suffered some similar harm from the same actions of the defendant or defendants

Class Action  

2. January 2012, 12:39

Annnd count me in.

Class Action  

6. January 2012, 13:32

I think "200" calls should be called criminal harassment. They never mail me a bill even though I stress on it and I dont get why. Call 4 times every week. Obviously they've broken many laws from what I've read about them. The next time Im going to get them recorded for all the violations.

Misch  

11. January 2012, 14:08

Contact Pearl Polto on 800 876 cred

sandy s..  

13. January 2012, 17:09

Written by will not answer ZWICKER FALSE COLLECTION PC 'Firm' Agency or whomever they WANT to call themselves phone calls!!! To all victims:

FYI: IF THE CONSUMER DID NOT SIGN AN INITIAL CONTRACT WITH 2ND PARTY AND 3RD PARTY COLLECTION AGENCIES SUCH AS GC, Zwicker ETC. THEN THERE IS NO RESPONSIBILITY OF THE CONSUMER TO PAY THEM. THE CONTRACT SIGNED REQUIRES PAYMENT TO THE THE ORIGINAL COMPANY WITH THIER CONTRACT. THE COLLECTION AGENCIES WHO BUYS THESE DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS ARE OUT OF LUCK!! ITS HARRASMENT OTHERWISE. AND they KNOW IT!!!!

INFORMED  

17. January 2012, 11:04

I have a question.

Isnt it illegal to pursue collection of a debt that is way over the statute of limitations and is under the status of non-collectible?

In any case the guy calling from Zwicker said he was calling about an account from 2005 that I cancelled long ago and I figured is settled. Then he asked "What are you going to settle this account?" When I explained that I cancelled it, he wouldnt listen. Whats unsettling is that the debt is over the SOL of my state.

Ben  

19. January 2012, 03:34

Scum bags!!!!!! Returned several calls, left messages with all information requested, as well as spoke with one woman who put me on endless hold after getting my info. No one returned my call even though I left them 2 numbers. Trying to settle an account and they don't take initiative to call back and leave a message? Oh, yea, many hang ups on the answering machine, that's it! Pulled a credit report and my Pennys's account says acct charged off, acct written off $943.00. So, I am guessing no matter who cares to buy this measly thing is now out of luck? Funny thing is, I originally wrote to Penny's and offered to pay them 33% on the dollar and they never responded. I have a return receipt from the USPO that they got it. Guess they weren't concerned enough to negotiate. hmmmm.......
dicmooner

Richard  

20. January 2012, 09:05

In regards to the later on the pennys account. If it is charged off u don't have to pay the bill collector anythng. As a matter of fact u NEVER have to pay a bill collector because u don't own them. Contact Pearl Polto and tell her that u were referred by Sandy S. of Plymouth Meeting Pa. She will help you. Her # is 800 876 CRED..

sandy s..  

30. January 2012, 15:00

Hello posters here - I am involved with a group of folks who like yourselves have been victims of Zwicker & Associates illegal actions. If you have been sued by either American Express or Zwicker and Associates, and have an "affidavit of account" or something similar signed and/or notarized by either Jennifer Hartje, Vanessa Felice or Edmond Garabedian - we should talk. Visit www dot bofa-fiasco dot com and leave a comment in the moderated comments section on how to reach you (e-mail or phone preferred). We are documenting massive amounts of fraud and are talking to a major law firm in New York City in hopes of getting a class action lawsuit going against American Express.

K Bacon  

3. February 2012, 21:01

This is all very enlightening. I too have joined the long list of people harassed and possibly swindled by Zwicker. I had reached a payment plan for my Optima account with them in Nov 2010 and have had them debit the amount out of a secondary checking account. I set up this account to transfer only the amount the debt collectors take each month... Thinking this would protect my "primary" checking account that I pay utilities, groceries, rent, etc... Last night my husband tried to buy groceries and his debit card was rejected. Long story short, I logged in to check my balance on savings and checking and BOTH accounts listed the balance at $0!!! But the account they were authorized to take payment from had the correct balance! The cust. svc. rep. and Bank of Am. told me the code on the account was "MDGARN American Express Centurion." Of course, this all happened at 9PM on a Friday night and after spending HOURS on the phone with AMEX they assured me that they have only taken the authorized payment amounts and don't know anything about this current issue (the AMEX cust. svc. agent tole me he was a little shocked by it.) It's Saturday and (of course) no one is answering the phone at Zwicker. I'm absolutely stunned that they have depleted two bank accounts that I've never given them access to. Additionally, we have no paperwork concerning ANY of this current activity! The thing that burns me even worse is that these ass monkey's did this on a Friday afternoon and we are stuck without any recourse (or even resource) for the weekend.

Steph C  

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