Free Online Help for Consumer Debt Collection Issues
LIFT Wisconsin’s Legal Tune Up helps address civil legal problems for free from a smartphone or computer. If you have personal or medical debt, Legal Tune Up can help:
✅ If you are being sued in small claims court, the tool can help you figure out how to file an answer with the court if you wish to dispute the lawsuit
✅ Send you text reminders to your upcoming court dates
✅ Fill out and send letters to creditors to end debt collection harassment
We help equip individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to
effectively navigate small claims court, respond and file answers to contest debt claims,
and end debt collection harassment.
A Free, DIY Way to End Debt Harassment
Creditors that hold unpaid debt often end up pursuing court judgments, but while a majority of creditors in small claims court are represented by attorneys, less than 10% of alleged debtors have legal representation. Consequently, over 61% of Wisconsin small claims debt cases result in default judgments – a number that has more than doubled since 2021.
The result is often a debt larger than the original claim because court fees and interest are included. Default judgments also mean that claims are not “right-sized”; for example, medical debt for uninsured persons is based upon an inflated list price that no insurance company pays.
Creditors can pursue debts for decades, following alleged debtors to new jobs and savings accounts. Some creditors harass and threaten people and disclose debts to employers, co-workers, family members, and friends. These debt collection abuses may result in additional debts, made worse by confusing court procedures that unjustly benefit creditors.
Empowering You to Address Debt
20% of Wisconsinites are burdened with a debt in collections. Legal Tune Up is designed to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to effectively navigate small claims court, respond and file answers to contest debt claims, and end debt collection harassment. It’s a game changer for the thousands who are saddled with debt but cannot afford the assistance of an attorney to help them resolve the claims. The tool navigates an otherwise intimidating process, putting power back in the hands of the people so they can achieve greater economic security.
To help people use every aspect of the Legal Tune Up Tool, LIFT trains Legal Navigators. Join our volunteer team to help end debt harassment!
Show your support for civil legal justice – make a donation today!
Helpful Tips: Consumer Debt Collection
Navigating the small claims court system can be overwhelming and complicated, causing many to ignore the cases filed against them.
Knowing your rights and understanding the system is the first to contesting small claims cases. Download our free guides: