If you’ve recently been served with a debt collection lawsuit from Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP, you’re not alone. This Rochester-based law firm has been representing banks, lenders, and debt buyers throughout New York for decades. For consumers, being sued by this firm can feel overwhelming — but knowing your rights and legal options can make all the difference.
This article explains who Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP is, why they might be suing you, what your legal rights are under state and federal law, and how a New York debt defense lawyer can help you fight back or negotiate a settlement.
Who Is Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP?
Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP is a law firm based in Rochester, New York, with a long history in debt collection and creditors’ rights litigation. The firm represents major financial institutions, debt buyers, and collection agencies across the state of New York and even in Vermont.
They pursue claims on behalf of companies like TD Bank, LCS Capital LLC, Credit Acceptance Corporation, and Loan Asset Issuer LLC Series 2021-M1 (Upgrade, Inc.), among others. These entities typically hire Relin, Goldstein & Crane to collect money on defaulted loans, credit card debt, car loans, and other consumer financial accounts.
The firm’s practice areas include:
- Consumer and commercial collections
- Real estate and foreclosure litigation
- Creditor bankruptcy cases
- Enforcement of judgments
In short, their job is to collect debts for creditors — and they do so aggressively and efficiently, often by filing lawsuits in New York courts.
Why You Might Be Getting Sued by Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP
If you are being sued by Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP, it’s usually because a creditor or debt buyer claims you owe money on an account that went into default. The debt may come from:
- A credit card (like American Express or TD Bank)
- An auto loan or repossession (like Credit Acceptance Corporation)
- A personal loan (such as Upgrade, Inc.)
- A business loan or merchant cash advance
When you default, your account can be sold or assigned to another entity that attempts to collect the debt. Eventually, that entity may hire a firm like Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP to file a lawsuit in New York court seeking a judgment against you.
Once a judgment is entered, they can seek wage garnishment, bank account restraints, or liens against property. However, there are strict laws governing how debt collectors and collection law firms may act, and consumers have enforceable rights under both federal and state law.
Your Rights Under the FDCPA and New York Debt Collection Laws
Debt collection law firms such as Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP are regulated by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), codified at 15 U.S.C. § 1692 et seq. The FDCPA prohibits debt collectors from using unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices when collecting consumer debts.
Under the FDCPA, you have the right to:
- Be free from harassment or threats.
- Request validation of the debt in writing (within 30 days of receiving notice).
- Receive accurate and transparent information about the debt.
- Have your privacy respected — collectors cannot discuss your debt with unauthorized parties.
- Sue for damages and attorney’s fees if the FDCPA is violated.
In addition to federal protections, New York State has its own laws that further regulate debt collection, including:
- New York General Business Law § 601, which prohibits deceptive and abusive collection practices.
- New York City Administrative Code § 20-489 et seq., which applies to collectors operating in NYC and requires them to be licensed.
- New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR), which governs debt lawsuits and the enforcement of judgments.
If you believe that Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP — or the creditor they represent — violated any of these laws, you may have a defense or even a counterclaim.
Common Defenses to a Debt Lawsuit in New York
When you’re sued by a firm like Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP, it’s essential to respond promptly. Ignoring the lawsuit can lead to a default judgment, allowing the creditor to collect without proving its case.
Some common defenses include:
Lack of Proper Service
In some cases, consumers are never properly served with the summons and complaint — a violation of due process. Improper service can be grounds to vacate a default judgment.
Statute of Limitations
Under New York CPLR § 213(2), most consumer debt lawsuits must be filed within six years from the date of the default. If the lawsuit is filed after that period, you may be able to have it dismissed.
Lack of Standing
If the debt was sold or assigned multiple times, the plaintiff must prove it has legal standing — that is, it owns the debt and has the right to sue. Missing or incomplete assignment documents can weaken their case.
Incorrect Amount or Identity
Debt collection law firms sometimes sue for the wrong amount or even the wrong person due to clerical or data errors. You have the right to demand strict proof of the amount owed.
FDCPA Violations
If the firm’s actions violated the FDCPA, you may countersue for damages of up to $1,000 per violation, plus legal fees.
Every case is different, and a knowledgeable New York debt defense lawyer can help you identify which defenses apply to your situation.
What to Do If You’ve Been Served
If you’ve been served with a lawsuit by Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP, do not ignore it. You typically have 20 or 30 days to respond depending on how you were served. Failing to file an answer can result in a default judgment, which can lead to wage garnishment or frozen bank accounts.
Instead:
- Read the complaint carefully. Identify who the plaintiff is and what amount they claim you owe.
- Consult with an experienced consumer protection attorney. A lawyer can review your case for potential defenses and FDCPA violations.
- Request verification of the debt in writing. If you dispute the debt, you have the right to demand proof before paying.
- Explore settlement or repayment options. In some cases, your attorney can negotiate a reduced balance or structured payment plan.
How a New York Debt Defense Lawyer Can Help
A qualified New York debt defense lawyer can make a huge difference in how your case is resolved. At the Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC, our attorneys focus on defending consumers against debt collection lawsuits and negotiating fair settlements.
Here’s how we help:
- Evaluate your case to see if the creditor can legally prove the debt.
- Challenge improper service, expired debts, or missing documentation.
- Assert FDCPA and New York law violations when applicable.
- Negotiate settlements that may significantly reduce the amount you owe.
- Protect your wages and bank accounts from unlawful restraint or garnishment.
Even if the debt is legitimate, our firm can often help negotiate better repayment terms or reduced balances, especially when the collector is open to settlement.
New York Debt Defense Lawyer
If you are being sued by Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP, you do not have to face it alone. With the right legal representation, you can defend your rights, challenge improper claims, and seek fair resolutions.
At the Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC, we are dedicated to protecting New York consumers from aggressive debt collection tactics. Our experienced attorneys handle lawsuits from Relin, Goldstein & Crane, LLP and similar firms across the state.
Contact the Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC today by calling (888) 301-0584 or contacting us online for a free consultation. Our team is ready to review your case and help you understand your rights under New York and federal law.