FIXING YOUR FINANCES ― Call Consumer Protection Lawyers instead of a Credit Repair Organization
When your finances feel like they’re spiraling out of control, knowing where to turn can be overwhelming.
Between debt collectors, credit errors, and budgeting setbacks, it’s easy to feel stuck. That’s where credit counselors and consumer protection attorneys come in—but they serve different purposes.
In this post, R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys explain how credit counselors support financial recovery, and when it’s time to escalate your case to a legal team that can take real action on your behalf.
What Does a Credit Counselor Do?
Credit counselors are trained professionals who help individuals and families navigate personal financial challenges. They offer guidance in areas like:
Budgeting and money management
Debt reduction strategies
Credit score improvement
Long-term financial planning
These counselors develop customized action plans to help clients set goals and make smart financial decisions. Think of them as financial coaches—not legal advocates.
Benefits of Working With a Credit Counselor
Credit counselors can be a great first step if you’re feeling overwhelmed by your finances. Here’s how they help:
Education and Literacy: Learn how to budget, track expenses, and reduce debt.
Objective Advice: Counselors are typically not affiliated with creditors, offering neutral guidance.
Debt Management Plans: They can negotiate with creditors for lower rates or consolidated payments.
Long-Term Success: Build financial habits that support stability for years to come.
But keep in mind: credit counselors cannot sue a creditor, demand damages, or enforce your rights under consumer protection laws.
When to Call R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys
If your financial issues involve illegal behavior by lenders, creditors, or debt collectors, it’s time to involve a legal professional. R23 Law’s attorneys protect your rights in ways credit counselors cannot.
You need a lawyer if you’re dealing with:
Predatory Lenders
If you’ve been trapped by high-interest payday loans or unfair loan terms, our attorneys can take legal action to stop abuse and recover damages.
Debt Collection Harassment
Are debt collectors calling non-stop or making threats? You may have a claim under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). We’ll help you enforce your rights and end the harassment.
Credit Report Errors
Incorrect information on your credit report can hurt your score and your finances. Our legal team can help you dispute errors with credit reporting agencies—and ensure they’re corrected swiftly and properly.
What Does Credit Counseling Cost?
Credit counseling is often affordable, but it’s not always free:
Monthly service fees: Typically $20–$75
Initial session fees: $50–$200
Debt Management Plans (DMPs): May cost $25–$75/month
Some nonprofit agencies offer free services on a sliding scale, but these costs can still add up over time—especially when compared to the legal protections a consumer attorney can offer.
How to Get Started: Your Financial Recovery Plan
Whether you’re just starting your financial recovery journey or you’re ready to take legal action, here’s a quick guide:
Try credit counseling for budgeting help and basic debt support.
Document harassment or unfair treatment from lenders or collectors.
Contact R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys for a free consultation if your rights have been violated or you're facing legal issues.
Ready to Regain Control? R23 Law Is Here for You
If you're being harassed, misled, or harmed financially by bad actors in the credit or debt world, credit counseling isn’t enough. You need real legal power behind you.
R23 Law’s California Consumer Protection Attorneys have deep experience fighting back against debt collectors, credit reporting errors, and predatory lending. We offer:
Free case evaluations
No upfront costs
Compassionate, client-centered legal care
