5 Steps to Handling a Lawsuit by Marcadis Singer, PA

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Who is Marcadis Singer, PA, one of the leading Florida Collection Law Firms?

Marcadis Singer is a Florida debt collection law firm. The firm is led by partners Ralph Marcadis and Gil Singer, who specialize in credit and collections. Their main office is located at 5104 S West Shore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611.

Marcadis Singer’s website states that the firm was founded in 1984. Marcadis Singer is not BBB accredited and has 8 customer complaint in the last 5 years, with 0 customer reviews (as of 12/13/2024).  According to the Florida Bar, Ralph Marcadis was licensed in 1982 and has no 10-year bar discipline history.  Likewise, Gilbert Singer was licensed in 1979, and has no 10-year bar discipline history.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau complaint database reflects 4 consumer complaints against Marcadis Singer (as of 12/13/2024 – with a 3 year lookback).

Why have I been sued by Marcadis Singer?

Marcadis Singer handles debt collection and subrogation cases. If Marcadis Singer has sued you, they most likely represent a creditor who claims you owe that creditor a debt.

Is there a class action lawsuit against Marcadis Singer?

Consumers have sued Marcadis Singer a handful of times for claims of improper collection practices.  A search of the federal court “PACER” system reflects 5 cases in federal court where Marcadis Singer was listed as a defendant (as of 12/13/2024).  We did not locate any class action lawsuits against Marcadis Singer in our search.

Receiving the Lawsuit

What to Expect When Served with a Lawsuit

Receiving a lawsuit from Marcadis Singer, P.A. can be a daunting experience. When served with a lawsuit, it’s essential to understand the process and what to expect. Typically, the lawsuit will include a summons, a complaint, and other supporting documents. The summons may specify the deadline for responding to the lawsuit, usually within 20-30 days. It’s crucial to take immediate action to avoid a default judgment. Ignoring these documents or delaying your response can lead to severe consequences, including wage garnishment or bank account attachment. Understanding these initial steps can help you prepare and respond appropriately.

Deadlines and Importance of Timely Response

When served with a lawsuit, responding promptly is vital to avoid a default judgment. A default judgment can result in wage garnishment, bank account attachment, or loss of personal property. If you fail to respond by the applicable deadline, the court may enter a default judgment against you, which can have severe consequences. It’s essential to seek the advice of a qualified debt collection defense attorney to ensure you respond appropriately and within the deadline. Timely response is crucial in protecting your rights and preventing further legal and financial repercussions.

Evaluating Your Options

Settlement Negotiations with Marcadis Singer, PA

Settlement negotiations with Marcadis Singer, P.A. can be a viable option for resolving the lawsuit. A settlement allows you to avoid the uncertainty and expense of a trial. When negotiating a settlement, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the amount of money owed and the terms of the settlement. A qualified debt collection defense attorney can help you navigate the negotiation process and ensure you receive a fair settlement. Some benefits of settlement negotiations include:

• Avoiding the uncertainty and expense of a trial

• Reducing the amount of money owed

• Preventing wage garnishment or other collection activities

• Improving your credit score by resolving the debt

It’s essential to work with a qualified debt collection defense attorney who has experience negotiating settlements with Marcadis Singer, P.A. They can help you achieve a favorable outcome and protect your rights. If you are based in Lauderdale, a local debt collection attorney would highly recommend seeking professional advice to handle your Florida debt effectively.

How to beat Marcadis Singer settlements?

1. Show Up

First, do not sit on your hands!  In Florida, any claims up to $8,000 are in Small Claims, up to $30,000 are in county court, and anything more is in circuit court.  In small claims cases, a defendant is required to attend a hearing early on called a “case management conference”; whereas in county court and circuit court, the defendant has 20-days to file a written response from the day the lawsuit papers are served.  If a defendant doesn’t appear (in small claims) or they fail to respond (in county court or circuit court), the court will likely enter a default judgment against them.  Make sure to respond (or hire someone to do so) so you don’t lose off the bat!

2. Review the claim

Next, review the records from the case.  When a lawsuit is based on the records of another company, it may be that the records are inaccurate.  Review the claim and don’t assume it is correct just because they have written it.  See if the claim and the amount are accurate.

3. Consider your options

Evaluate the alleged debt from the lawsuit, along with your other debt and your income. Various options are at your disposal, such as settlement negotiations, self-representation in court, or considering bankruptcy. Is there a defense to the claim?  Can you realistically afford settlement, or does it make more sense to consider bankruptcy?  Here is where you may want to have a free consultation with a debt resolution professional who can help you to objectively review your options.

4. Negotiate

Assuming bankruptcy is not your best option and depending on the merits of your case, negotiation may be the next best step.  If you hire a debt settlement attorney to assist you with the lawsuit, your attorney will negotiate for you.  However, if you are determined to go it alone, you are generally better talking to the opposing firm than doing nothing (*this is a generalization; each situation is different).  Just keep in mind, they are not looking out for your best interest.  They are likely not going to tell you about your defenses to the lawsuit or your protections from collection.  Their job is to get you to pay.

5. Any Settlement Agreement Should be in Writing

Finally, if you reach a settlement agreement, even if you are representing yourself, your agreement should be in writing.

Is Marcadis Singer subject to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and wage garnishment is generally?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) provides rules for how debts can be collected upon, ensuring that debt collectors adhere to legal standards. Generally, even law firms can be deemed “debt collectors” regulated under the FDCPA if they regularly collect the debts due to another. Therefore, because Marcadis Singer regularly collects debts, they would likely be subject to FDCPA regulations.

Questions on Your Marcadis Singer Lawsuit? Handle your Florida debt

If you have been sued by Marcadis Singer, we offer a complimentary consultation to help you find the best legal advice and evaluate your case with our experienced attorneys. We’ll review your options with you.

Call Now for a Free Case Evaluation Clearwater: (727) 538-4188 | Tampa: (813) 225-3111