Philadelphia, PA asked in Consumer Law, Civil Litigation and Collections for Pennsylvania

Q: I received a call from a courier saying that i had certified mail from someone and gave me a phone # and case ID #. So,

I called and they said that I owed money to Wells Fargo regarding an account at Wachovia 30 years ago, I think. They said that they could take me to court so what once was $300 of outstanding debt, give or take, is now $4000 with penalties and fees and lawyers fees. But they will settle for $1200. I don't know if this is a scam but if I assume it is and I am being taken to court, they will take what little I own and they don't care. I just don't know what to do? Please, I just need some advice?

2 Lawyer Answers
Barry W. Kaufman
Barry W. Kaufman
Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Jacksonville, FL

A: It sounds like a scam. I'd ignore it. If its a scam, there is no lawsuit and never will be. Moreover you have to be served with the complaint and summons by someone authorized by Pennsylvania law to do so. Relax and enjoy Halloween night.

David Kennedy Bifulco agrees with this answer

David Kennedy Bifulco
David Kennedy Bifulco pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Bethlehem, PA
  • Licensed in Pennsylvania

A: Barry is correct. Sounds like a scam. The Statute of Limitations for debt collection cases is normally 4 years, unless the instrument (usually a mortgage note), is signed under seal and then the Statute of Limitations is 20 years

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