Lori Burns has filed a lawsuit against Midland Credit Management, Inc., alleging violations of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). The complaint was filed on November 4, 2024, in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. Burns accuses Midland Credit Management of furnishing false and inaccurate information to credit reporting agencies regarding a disputed debt.
The case began when Midland Credit Management filed a civil complaint against Lori Burns on August 13, 2024, in Magisterial District Court. In response, Burns retained J.P. Ward & Associates, LLC to defend her. On September 13, 2024, her attorneys filed an Entry of Appearance and an Intent to Defend on her behalf. They also sent a "First Dispute Letter" to Midland Credit Management, disputing any debts claimed by the company and instructing them to cease direct contact with Burns.
Despite this notice, Midland Credit Management allegedly updated TransUnion with false information about the disputed debt on September 27, 2024. The company reported the debt as "in Collection" and "PLACED FOR COLLECTION," contradicting its disputed status. This action is claimed to violate sections 1692e(2)(a) and 1692e(8) of the FDCPA by misrepresenting the character and legal status of the debt.
Burns's lawsuit seeks monetary damages for actual harm suffered due to these alleged violations, including emotional distress and inconvenience. She also requests statutory damages under the FDCPA, costs associated with the legal action, and attorney’s fees.
The case is represented by attorneys Travis A. Gordon and Joshua P. Ward from J.P. Ward & Associates, LLC. It is being presided over by Judge Laura M. Turlip under Case IMJ45304CV00001742024. The claim amount involved in this dispute is $2,350.49.