If someone stole your identity to open an account, make a purchase, obtain credit, or conduct another transaction, you may be trying to figure out exactly what happened. One of the biggest obstacles identity theft victims face is getting information from the business where the fraud occurred. Federal law gives identity theft victims an important
Millions of Americans have criminal records that continue to appear on background check reports long after they have paid their debt to society. These records can make it difficult to find employment, secure housing, obtain professional licenses, and move forward with life. In response, a growing number of states have enacted “Clean Slate” laws that
If you’ve ever tried to fix an error on your credit report, you already know the drill. You write a letter. You attach your proof. You wait. And weeks later, a form response comes back telling you the inaccurate information has been “verified” — even though nothing about it is actually accurate. It’s frustrating. It’s
Jim Francis Presents Oral Argument at the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in Pasadena on behalf of Life Insurance Applicants, March 2026
Most consumers are familiar with traditional credit reporting agencies such as Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. These companies compile credit reports that lenders use when deciding whether to approve loans or credit cards. However, many consumers are surprised to learn that there are other consumer reporting agencies that collect and report financial information that can have
Philadelphia has expanded its Ban the Box law, strengthening protections for job applicants and placing new limits on how employers and background check companies may use criminal history information. For job seekers, this expansion is significant. For employers who fail to comply, it creates serious legal exposure. What Is “Ban the Box”? Philadelphia’s Fair Criminal
The Illinois Supreme Court recently issued a significant decision affecting Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) claims brought in Illinois state courts. In Fausett v. Walgreens, the court held that consumers must demonstrate a concrete, actual injury to have standing to pursue claims under the FCRA and FACTA, rather than relying solely on statutory violations. The
Social media is full of advice about “cleaning” your credit report, much of it dangerously inaccurate. Every day, people are told they can dispute any negative information and have it instantly removed. Others claim you can sue the credit bureaus simply because you don’t like what’s on your report. The truth? Your rights under the
When “STOP” Doesn’t Mean Stop: Your Rights Under the TCPA for Unwanted Promotional Texts In today’s world, promotional text messages are everywhere, offering deals, discounts, and updates from retailers, restaurants, and service providers. But what happens when you’ve had enough and reply “STOP”—yet the texts keep coming? Under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), that
In recent years, a new kind of financial product has been spreading quickly across the country—promoted as a “home equity investment” or “shared equity agreement.” These companies promise quick cash with no monthly payments. They say they’re “partners” in your home’s future value. But according to multiple courts across the United States, these so-called investments