Debt collectors who threaten violence or tell the children of alleged debtors that their parents are going to jail are being targeted by a new law in the state of Florida. However, these abuses aren't limited to taking place in the Sunshine State; it's a nationwide epidemic, unfortunately.

While there are many honest, decent collectors in the field, there are also a lot of rogue collectors who simply look for someone of same or similar name to the person they believe owes money. then they'll try to harass or threaten their mark into paying. Some people will pay simply because they're so frightened and intimidated -- even if they don't owe the debt!

Thankfully, the Supreme Court recently ruled 7-2 that you have the right to sue abusive collectors who are hounding you about debts you don't owe. Yet even if you legitimately owe a debt, Clark wants you to know you have specific rights under federal law. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

• Always record any calls from/to a collector.


• If your debt is outside the statute of limitations, you are not required to pay up. However, Clark encourages you to honor your obligations when you're financially able to do so.


• You have the right to tell a collector never to contact you again. Use a drop dead letter and send it via certified mail.


• If you legitimately owe money and wish to make a deal to pay, never give a collector your checking account number over the phone. Collectors routinely take more money than they say they'll take.


• Never pay one cent until you have an agreement in writing stating your payments will resolve the debt in full.