CHARLESTON, W.V., April 27, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- ACA International, representing the credit and collections industry, along with Associated Collection Agencies of West Virginia, denounces the illegal and unethical behavior by a debt buyer in the state.   The firm in question is not a member of the national or West Virginia trade associations.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101018/ACALOGO )

"These actions are deplorable and grossly misrepresent the hard work of most collectors who perform a vitally important function for West Virginia and the national economy," said ACA CEO Pat Morris. "Debt collectors must follow the law and should be held accountable if they don't."

Consumers do have rights under federal and state law and deserve to be treated respectfully when contacted by a debt collector.  According to ACA of West Virginia President Jillian Epstein, "The key is communication - avoiding a letter or call won't make the debt disappear and the reason for the contact cannot be resolved without the ability to communicate."  

For more information about consumer rights in debt collection or to ask questions, visit www.askdoctordebt.org.  

The Associated Collection Agencies of West Virginia is a State Unit of ACA International, the Association of Credit and Collection Professionals.  ACA is the comprehensive, knowledge-based resource for success in the credit and collection industry.  Founded in 1939, ACA brings together more than 5,000 members in the United States and abroad, and their more than 150,000 employees, including third-party collection agencies, asset buyers, attorneys, creditors and vendor affiliates.  ACA establishes a wide variety of products, services and publications.  For more information about ACA International, visit www.acainternational.org.

Contact: Mark Schiffman
Tel. (952) 259-2124 or schiffman@acainternational.org

SOURCE ACA International