Consumer debt is a personal debt owed by an individual to a business or corporation, typically a bank or credit union. It does not include debts owed by a business or corporation to another business or corporation or by an individual to the government. Consumer debt allows people to better themselves through a purchase without the requirement of paying the full purchase price up front. Consumer debt includes, for example, store credit cards, credit cards, medical bills, auto loans and student loans.
Federal Trade Commission Consumer Protection
Debt Collection FAQs
Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts - Bankruptcy Basics
If you want to find an attorney, you may contact the State Bar of Arizona. If you are in Maricopa and Pima Counties, the local Bar Associations offer lawyer referral services and will direct you to a lawyer for a small consultation fee. For more information call (602) 257-4434 in Maricopa County or (520) 623-4625 in Pima County.
Depending on factors such as your income and the kind of legal problem you have, you may be able to get free help for non-criminal cases from Community Legal Services or a Legal Aid organization in your area. For a list of resources in your area, go to http://www.azlawhelp.org.
Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 32, Chapter 9, Collection Agencies
ARS § 32-1001 through ARS § 32-1057
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), 15 U.S.C. §§ 1692-1692p
Rules of Civil Procedure for the Superior Courts of Arizona
Arizona Tax Court Rules of Practice
Justice Court Rules of Civil Procedure
Rules of Small Claims Procedure
United States Bankruptcy Code, Title 11
Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure
© 2023 Arizona Supreme Court. All Rights Reserved.