Mark: Long COVID patient fights $20,000 unemployment repayment demand
"It’s fair to say that the COVID-19 pandemic affected us all differently. Personally, it took away my ability to work due to long-lingering symptoms of the illness. My job duties at Boeing were simply not doable for me as I struggled with severe and persistent vertigo. I applied for unemployment benefits and focused on my recovery."
Maria: Wages garnished for decade-old medical debt
"I had just started a new job at the local credit union when a member of the HR department informed me that my wages would be getting garnished. She had limited information, just that it was for a medical bill and would be approximately one-third of every paycheck."
How the Dehumanized Debt Industry Works
As consumer debt soars across the United States and more people fall behind on payments, debt collection cases are crowding the courts. Individuals in the lowest income bracket are three times more likely to face debt collection actions compared to those in the highest income bracket.
Here, we interview Scott Kinkley, staff attorney in NJP’s Spokane office. His specialty area of practice is consumer protection, and especially all things having to do with debt and debt collectors. Scott has pioneered NJP’s work in defense of low-income clients dealing with unjust debt for the past 11 years.
Anita triumphs over unjust debt (video)
"I would tell people to reach out for legal assistance as early as possible and that you don't have to fight debt collectors alone – particularly when they trample on people's rights."
Crushed by Unlawful Debt Collection
Anita Belcher, a single working grandmother of color raising three of her grandchildren, was shocked when 25% of her wages were inexplicably garnished without warning. Ms. Belcher was a victim of "sewer service," a common practice of debt collectors to falsely claim a defendant has received notice of a debt collection lawsuit.
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Released from prison, John resolves old debts
“Navigating disability benefits after being released from prison seemed impossible. After 10 years, so much has changed. I was ready to move on with a quiet life in retirement and Northwest Justice Project helped me navigate new beginnings."
Volunteer Story: Alyssa P. Au
Alyssa P. Au (she/her) is a Staff Attorney at the Northwest Consumer Law Center.
Volunteer Story: Matt Brady
Matt Brady (he/him) heads CTM Legal Group’s office in Seattle.
Volunteer Story: Amanda Martin
Amanda Martin (she/her) is the Executive Director of the Northwest Consumer Law Center.
Client Story: Lynn Attison
I was a fully active person who loved working with kids until I contracted H1N1 during the 2009 pandemic. I had severe complications, including amputations to parts of my hands and feet. Suddenly, I was someone who was always tired and in pain. The illness gobbled up my insurance and ran up our debts. It […]