Collection Defense Attorney in Queens

Put an End to Harassing Debt Collector Calls across New York

Dealing with persistent calls from debt collectors can leave you feeling powerless, stressed, and even afraid to pick up your phone. These constant reminders of mounting debts take a toll on your peace of mind and may even cross the line into illegal harassment. If this sounds familiar, know that you have rights and there are legal ways to fight back. At Shiryak & Habib LLP, we stand with individuals and families in Queens and the surrounding areas who are facing aggressive collection efforts.

We've handled cases involving:

Debt collectors do not always play by the rules. But you have legal protections—and we know how to enforce them. With over 40 years of combined experience, we have helped countless clients stop the calls, regain control, and find a path forward.

Many people first hear from a collector only after a lawsuit has already been filed in a New York City Civil Court, or after their wages or bank account have been targeted. A Queens collection defense lawyer can review the court papers with you, explain what each deadline means, and help you decide whether to challenge the lawsuit, try to vacate a default judgment, or negotiate a resolution that you can realistically afford. Because our practice is focused on Queens residents, we understand how local judges typically handle these cases and what steps are most likely to protect your income and essential assets.

New York law offers distinct protections that many consumers do not realize they have, such as limits on how much of your paycheck can be garnished and rules about which funds in a bank account are exempt from restraint. When you sit down with Shiryak & Habib LLP, we walk through how those rules apply to your specific situation so you can make informed choices instead of reacting to pressure from a collector. Our goal is to help you see the full picture of your debts, your defenses, and the practical options available to you in Queens.

Call (908) 460-1337 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation with a collection defense attorney in Queens and New York.

What Counts as Debt Collection Abuse?

Not every call or letter from a creditor is illegal—but plenty cross the line. Under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and state consumer laws, you are protected from unfair, deceptive, and aggressive collection tactics.

If any of the following sound familiar, you may have a valid case:

• Calls at all hours, including early mornings or late nights
• Threats of arrest, violence, or legal action that they cannot take
• Repeated contact at work after you have asked them not to
• Use of abusive or vulgar language
• False or misleading information about the debt
• Calling family, friends, or employers to shame or pressure you
• Contact after you have hired an attorney

When you work with Shiryak & Habib LLP, we do not just ask them to stop—we hold them accountable. You should not have to live in fear of answering your phone. We will help you understand your options and respond with strength.

In New York, collectors must follow additional rules adopted by state regulators that govern how often they can call, what they must disclose about the age and status of a debt, and how they communicate about old accounts that may be beyond the statute of limitations. Many abusive practices arise in cases involving debt buyers who have purchased old credit card accounts and lack proof that the balance is correct or that they have the right person. Our team carefully reviews the collector’s records, compares them against New York requirements, and looks for gaps that can be used to push back against harassment or to contest the debt itself in a Queens courtroom.

New York and Queens Debt Collection Laws You Should Know

Debt collection in New York is governed by both federal law and state-specific rules, and understanding how they work together can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. In addition to the FDCPA, New York law regulates how long a creditor has to sue, what must be included in a consumer credit complaint, and how judgments can be enforced through wage garnishments or bank restraints. For Queens residents, these cases are often brought in Queens Civil Court or in a consumer credit part, where judges regularly see lawsuits filed by large banks and debt buyers.

When a Queens collection defense lawyer examines your situation, they will typically look at questions such as whether the statute of limitations has expired, whether you were properly served with the lawsuit, and whether the plaintiff can prove it owns the debt. New York’s rules now require more detailed documentation in consumer credit cases, and missing or inconsistent records can be a powerful defense. By applying these laws to the facts of your case, Shiryak & Habib LLP helps you evaluate your risks and decide whether to fight the lawsuit, seek to vacate a judgment, or focus on resolving the debt on manageable terms.