Intro to Contracts

Are you familiar with the basics of entering a contract?

The five essential elements to a contract are offer, acceptance, consideration, mutuality, and legality. The process of negotiating a contract starts with the offer, an invitation to enter into a binding contract. The person making the offer is the offeror, and the person receiving the offer is the offeree. 

The contract process starts when the offeror makes an offer to the offeree. Each party offers consideration for the deal, value that supports their promises. If the offeree accepts the offer, the parties mutually agree to the terms of the deal, and if the subject matter of the contract is legal, you have a contract.

“Acceptance” occurs when the offeree states either that the offer is accepted or takes action that indicates acceptance. Typically, you want to accept in an unambiguous manner. If you want to accept an offer but you’re unsure how to do so, simply use the same mode of communication that was used to convey the offer. For example, if the offer came by mail, accept with a letter.

The offeror may limit the amount of time the offer is open. If no time limit is set, the offeree has a reasonable time to accept. An offer usually can be withdrawn (“revoked”) at any time before it’s accepted. Here are two common exceptions:

1. Contractual limitations: your contract requires you to keep the offer open. For example, the offeree pays to keep the offer open for a specified time.
2. Legal restrictions: the law requires you to keep the offer open. For example, certain restrictions are imposed on merchants under the Uniform Commercial Code. 

Need Help with Michigan Debt Collections?

Since 1961, our top-rated lawyers have been dedicated to ethically pursuing the money you’re owed. Our law firm can handle your debt collections in Michigan, even if you are located outside the state or country. Call (248) 645-2440 or submit a contact form for an efficient resolution to your collection matters.

Debtor Refusing to Pay? Consider Your Post Judgment Options

Have a judgment, but not sure what to do next?

Is your debtor still refusing to pay?

Sometimes a debtor will pretend to negotiate with you to stall for time. If you enter into an agreement that involves payment over time, what happens if your debtor doesn’t make the payments? We suggest that you enter your payment plan in the form of an order with the court and include an acceleration clause. If a payment is late, then the entire remaining balance becomes due.

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

 

Considering Your Post Judgment Options

Have a judgment, but not sure what to do next?

Considering your post judgment options?

At this point, your debtor falls into one of the following three categories:

1. eager payer
2. negotiator
3. deadbeat

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you. 

Knowing the Basics for Turning a Judgment into Cash

Over the course of collecting accounts, you find debtors who pay the moment they receive your first letter or phone call, as well as debtors who won’t pay and who constantly test you to see how hard you’ll pursue the collection. If you have to get a judgment, you already know you’re not dealing with an easy case. If your debtor can afford to pay you but chooses not to pay, he or she will probably avoid paying until no alternative remains.

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

4 Advantages Gained After Judgments

 

From the time you obtain a judgment, you gain some real advantages over your debtor.

1. Judgements get placed on the debtor’s credit reports. 
2. The statute of limitations is less of an issue. 
3. The judgment accumulates interest at your state’s legal rate of interest. 
4. Your judgment is a legally enforceable court order. 

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

Statute of Limitations Determined by Industry

The UCC isn’t the only legal code that includes a statute of limitations; time limits can vary by industry. For example, federal law requires that claims for charges or refunds of overcharges in the freight industry must be brought within 18 months of the date the claim accrues (normally the date of shipment). Be sure you understand the laws that apply to your industry, even if you need to talk to an attorney.

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

How to Handle Expired Claims

All claims arising from business agreements have an expiration period. Under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), a claim for breach of contract for the sale of goods, the statute of limitations is four years. For commercial sales, the UCC permits parties to reduce the period of limitations to not less than one year, but they may not increase it.

Learn more here!

Make the First Step! Contact a Debt Collector in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of a debt collector in Michigan, your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

How to Deal with the Elusive Customer

After your customer’s paying habits deteriorate, he or she may become elusive and avoid communication. Rather than picking up the phone and discussing the account, he or she may let your calls go straight to voicemail and won’t return them. On occasion, you may find that your customer’s voice mailbox is full and can accept no further calls. 

Elusion is a red flag. Put your customer at the top of your list for monitoring payments and exercise extreme caution when considering any further credit.

Learn more about how to deal with elusive customers here.

Make the First Step! Contact an Attorney for Debt Recovery in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of an attorney for debt collection in Michigan your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

Collection Tools Available Through the Courts

After the ink is dry on your judgment, when the time for an appeal has passed and the judgment becomes final and enforceable – unless your debtor has written you a check – it’s time to explore post-judgment remedies. A variety of tools are available through the courts to help you collect your judgment, including:

1. Garnishments
2. Writs to seize assets
3. Judgment liens
4. Examinations for assets under oath
5. Receiverships
6. Charging orders

Learn about the collection tools that are available here!

Take the First Step! Contact an Attorney for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of an attorney for debt collection in Michigan your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

Have Questions? We Specialize in Debt Collection!

At Muller, Muller, Richmond, Harms, & Myers, P.C., our debt collectors in Michigan can help you build a strategy customized to fit your business needs. We want to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in pursuing your case. 

Since 1961, our top-rated lawyers have been dedicated to professionally and aggressively pursuing the money you’re owed in a straightforward, ethical manner. With office in Birmingham and Grand Rapids, we handle claims against debtors located in Michigan, even if you're located out of the state or out of the country.

Take the First Step! Contact an Attorney for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of an attorney for debt collection in Michigan your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

Debt Collection Laws Protecting Our Military

Do you have debtors in the military?

Unfortunately, it can be a little bit more difficult to see any money from these debtors.

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) provides protection to members of the military assigned to federal active duty so that their legal rights aren’t adversely affected by their military service.

Among the provisions of the SCRA, military members have the right to request a stay of civil court proceedings and may be able to secure relief from default judgments obtained while they’re on active duty. Upon notice to creditors, they may be eligible for reduced interest rates on their debts.

Take the First Step! Contact an Attorney for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you need the help from a debt collector in Michigan your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

What You Need to Know About Foreign Judgment Recognition Laws

Trying to track a debtor across state lines?

Are you having a hard time collecting on a judgment?

Do you think they moved away to avoid payment?

States are obligated to recognize judgments obtained in other states under the Full Faith and Credit provisions of the U.S. Constitution. Most states have foreign judgment recognition laws to facilitate enforcement of international judgments.

Take the First Step! Contact an Attorney for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you need the help of an attorney for debt collection in Michigan your first step is easy! Fill out the information form on our “Contact Us” page, or give us a call at 248-645-2440, to ask questions and figure out your next steps. We offer a free consultation and strategy meeting, no fees unless you win! Don’t let the money owed to you go away – get started today! We look forward to hearing from you.

How to Create a Solid Plan for Successful Seizures

Given the cost of execution and the chance of being stuck with the bill, it makes sense to have a solid plan in mind before you initiate the process. First, you want to be sure that your debtor has enough assets to cover the cost of this process, and ideally, to also cover most or all of the amount owed on the judgment.

Start by gathering accurate and specific information that a court officer or deputy sheriff can use by:

1. Creating a list of assets owned by your debtor.
2. Double-checking your files to make sure the information on your list is accurate.
3. Preparing a cover letter containing that information is for the benefit of your officer.

Have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact an attorney for debt collection in Michigan at Muller Law Firm.

Call Experienced Attorneys for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you’re a business owner, you may decide having a debt collection law firm work on your unpaid invoices is your best choice. That’s an area we specialize in, and we’re happy to discuss your options.

Our attorneys know how to get results for our clients and they’re dedicated to getting a satisfactory outcome. Contact our attorneys for debt collection in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a free no obligation consultation.

How to Make One Final Demand!

Make no mistake: you’ve made your decision. The only thing your debtor can do to change that is pay in full.

Your final notice is only effective if the debtor believes it! Make no threat that you don’t fully intend to carry out. If you want to get paid, make all attempts strong and confident with evidence to back up your story.

If you plan to use a collection agency, you may want to name the agency in your final demand letter: “If we fail to receive payment in five days, we will be placing this account with our collection agency, [name of collection agency], for further action on the account.”

Call Experienced Attorneys for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you’re a business owner, you may decide that having a debt collection law firm work on your unpaid invoices is your best choice. That’s an area we specialize in, and we’re happy to discuss your options.

Our attorneys know how to get results for our clients and they’re dedicated to getting a satisfactory outcome. Contact our debt collectors in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a free no obligation consultation.

Which Actions Should You Take Next?

1. Should you write the account off as a bad debt?
2. Should you place the debt with a third-party collection agency and hope that it has better luck than you did?
3. Is it time to file a lawsuit against the debtor? 

Whichever approach you choose, your collection is entering another phase. There’s just one last thing to do: issue your final demand notice. 

Call Experienced Attorneys for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you’re a business owner, you may decide that having a debt collection law firm work on your unpaid invoices is your best choice. That’s an area we specialize in, and we’re happy to discuss your options.

Our attorneys know how to get results for our clients and they’re dedicated to getting a satisfactory outcome. Contact our debt collectors in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a free no obligation consultation.

Know What to Expect When It Comes to Going to Trial

Are you prepared to go to court?

Do you know what to expect?

Did you file all the necessary paperwork?

Know the expectations of court, particularly if you’re in a regular trial court. A regular trial court may expect you to file a lot of documents:

• You’ll likely have to file witness and exhibit lists and other documents well before trial.
• The court may request a trial brief – a summary of the facts of your case and the law you intend to rely on in court.
• After a bench trial, the court may ask you to submit findings of facts and conclusions of law, describing that conclusions you want the court to reach regarding what happened and why your side should win under the law.

Call Experienced Attorneys for Debt Collection in Michigan Today!

If you’re a business owner, you may decide that having a debt collection law firm work on your unpaid invoices is your best choice. That’s an area we specialize in, and we’re happy to discuss your options.

Our attorneys know how to get results for our clients and they’re dedicated to getting a satisfactory outcome. Contact our attorneys for debt collection in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a free no obligation consultation.

The Power of a Phone Call

Never underestimate the power of a phone call!

Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone the minute a debt becomes delinquent. It’s never too soon to make that call. For a past-due bill, person-to-person contact is far better and the most effective way to get your message across while clearing up any misunderstandings.

Attorneys for Debt Collection in Michigan Fight for Your Creditors’ Rights!

If you’re a business owner, you should be spending your time conducting business rather than chasing down debts. Contact an experienced attorney for debt collection in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a resolution to your collection matters. Let the experts worry so you have more time to focus on growing your business.

Can you file a lawsuit on expired debt?

Do you have expired claims?

Are you unsure if the statute of limitations has run out?

Are you worried about the consequences of filing a lawsuit on an expired debt?

Consequences of filing a lawsuit on an expired debt include:

Dismissal and sanctions: When a judge realizes that a claim is beyond the statute of limitations, he or she may dismiss the claim on their own initiative or on the motion of the defendant, and may even assess a fine or penalty for starting a suit that has no legal merit. Sometimes the defendant also receives an award of attorney fees.

Counterclaim: As a result of your filing litigation beyond the statute of limitations, the defendant may file a counterclaim for violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act or similar state or local consumer protection acts.

A few states forbid collections lawsuits after the limitations period has run so ignoring the limitations period can put you in front of an angry judge.

Call Experienced Debt Collectors in Michigan Today!

If you’re a business owner, you may decide that having a debt collection law firm work on your unpaid invoices is your best choice. That’s an area we specialize in, and we’re happy to discuss your options.

Our attorneys know how to get results for our clients and they’re dedicated to getting a satisfactory outcome. Contact our debt collectors in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a free no obligation consultation.

Affirmative Defense on Expired Claims

Do you have expired claims?

Are you unsure if the statute of limitations has run out?

The statute of limitations is what’s called an affirmative defense. That means the defendant must raise the statute as a defense to your collections lawsuit and has the burden of proving that the statute of limitations has run. It’s thus possible to get a judgment on an expired claim where the debtor has overlooked the defense and the court doesn’t notice that the claim has expired.

Debt Collectors in Michigan Fight for Your Creditors’ Rights!

If you’re a business owner, you should be spending your time conducting business rather than chasing down debts. Contact our debt collectors in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a resolution to your collection matters. Let the experts worry so you have more time to focus on growing your business.

Exhausted All Your Options? Track Your Debtor with Facebook!

It’s a bit ironic that people worry so much about how much information the government collects, and after a law is passed in an attempt to keep records and other information confidential people still freely pour so much information about themselves into publicly accessible blogs and social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. Take a look there to track down your debtor, because you may be surprised at what you find!

Once you track down your debtor, make sure you hire experienced debt collectors in Michigan to properly serve your lawsuit! Since 1961, our top-rated lawyers have been dedicated to professionally and aggressively pursuing the money you’re owed in a straightforward, ethical manner.

Debt Collectors in Michigan Fight for Your Creditors’ Rights!

If you’re a business owner, you should be spending your time conducting business rather than chasing down debts. Contact our debt collectors in Michigan today at (248) 645-2440 for a resolution to your collection matters. Let the experts worry so you have more time to focus on growing your business.