The Consumer Rights Unit helps people with things like debt collection, bankruptcy, scams, and economic abuse. We also help people with foreclosures. If you have a legal problem because you owe money, then the Consumer Rights Unit may be able to help.
Direct Services
Debt Collection
The Consumer Rights Unit represents people being sued by debt collectors in court. Most of the people we help come to us through our small claims lawyer for the day programs in Chelsea (Wednesdays), East Boston (Tuesdays), and Roxbury (Wednesdays). We also help people who have cases in other courts too. Call our intake line [TK number] if you have questions.
Mortgages & Foreclosure
If your home is in foreclosure or you are afraid it might be soon, please call us right away. We represent homeowners in disputes with their mortgage companies and go to court to stop foreclosures. We also work with other organizations that can help you get back on track with your mortgage payments and get out of foreclosure.
Bankruptcy
We help people file for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is complicated, serious, and not for everyone. Bankruptcy is also an amazing tool that can help people get out of debt that they have no other way of paying. For many people, bankruptcy is a better choice than solutions like debt settlement or debt consolidation. We can help you figure out if bankruptcy is the right choice for you.
Scams, Fraud, & Economic Abuse
Victims of scams or economic abuse committed by family members can be confused about how to get help. The Consumer Rights Unit helps people navigate this difficult process. We can tell you if you have ways to get back money you have lost and possibly represent you in court to help you get your money back.
Our Partnership
Most civil court cases are filed by debt collectors, which means that most GBLS clients have some kind of consumer law problem. The Consumer Rights Unit works with all other units in the program to resolve our clients' debt collection issues. We also partner with outside organizations such as Urban Edge to help people with their debt and foreclosure problems.
Impact Advocacy
The CRU collaborates with community groups and public-interest law organizations to identify cases that will create widespread, positive changes. We also advocate for policies benefiting consumers in Massachusetts and the United States.
Read more about the Consumer Unit's impact advocacy.
Representing Victims of Fraud and Identity Theft
When “Mary” became the victim of extensive identity theft, her life was turned upside down. One of the nation’s largest banks sued her for thousands of dollars in credit card debt she did not incur. The charges had been accumulated by individuals who stole her identity.