The economy is strong . . . for the repo man

by Chip Parker, Jacksonville Bankruptcy Attorney

Nobody owns sarcasm the way Stephen Colbert owns sarcasm.  Responding to Democratic criticism of conservative economic policy, Stephen Colbert provides proof that the economy is in great shape.  Even in this depressing economic cloud, there’s always a (tarnished) silver lining.

When it comes to repossessing property, there are certain conditions that prevent the repo man from carrying out his assignment.  Generally speaking, he cannot:

  • disturb the peace, which means that if a confrontation ensues as a result of his repossession efforts, he must back down and go away;
  • commit a crime in the process of repossession, which includes assault, battery, breaking and entering or violating a posted “No Tresspassing” sign; or
  • violate the automatic stay imposed in a pending bankruptcy case.

If the repo man doesn’t play by the rules, he could be fined, arrested and/or sued for violating the automatic stay and/or the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.

Tagged as: repo man, repossession, stephen colbert

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