If you’ve recently been served with court papers from Tsarouhis Law Group, you may be asking yourself what to do next. Debt collection lawsuits are not just stressful—they carry real consequences under New York and New Jersey law. If you fail to respond, the court may issue a judgment that can last decades, leading to wage garnishments, frozen bank accounts, or liens on your property.
You are not powerless. Both federal and state statutes regulate how debt collectors may pursue claims against consumers. By asserting your rights, you may be able to contest, reduce, or even defeat the claim entirely.
Who Is Tsarouhis Law Group?
Tsarouhis Law Group, LLC is a debt collection law firm headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The firm regularly represents creditors—including banks, hospitals, and finance companies—in collection lawsuits across New Jersey and occasionally in New York.
The firm’s practice areas include consumer debt, commercial debt, medical bills, judgment enforcement, and creditor representation in bankruptcy. Their communications typically state, in compliance with federal law, that they are debt collectors attempting to collect a debt and that information provided will be used for that purpose.
If you have received a summons, complaint, or other communication bearing their name, it likely means that a creditor has retained them to sue for an alleged balance.
Why Am I Being Sued?
When a borrower defaults on a credit card, personal loan, auto deficiency, or medical bill, creditors often outsource the account to collection firms. If informal collection efforts fail, a lawsuit may follow.
In New York, lawsuits may be filed in Civil Court (for amounts under $25,000) or Supreme Court (for higher amounts). In New Jersey, lawsuits typically proceed in the Superior Court, Special Civil Part (for claims under $20,000) or Law Division.
A lawsuit begins with service of a summons and complaint. You are then required to respond within a strict timeframe—generally 20 to 30 days, depending on the court. If you fail to answer, the court may enter a default judgment, which allows the creditor to pursue collection remedies.
What Laws Protect Me?
Even if you owe a debt, you have enforceable rights. Some of the most important protections come from both federal law and state-specific statutes.
Federal Law
- Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), 15 USC § 1692 governs the conduct of debt collectors. It prohibits harassment, false statements, and unfair practices. For example, a collector may not misrepresent the amount due, threaten action they cannot take, or contact you at unreasonable times. Violations may entitle you to statutory damages, attorney’s fees, and costs.
- Under Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), 15 USC § 1681, if inaccurate debt information is reported to credit bureaus, you have the right to dispute and demand correction.
New York Law
- General Business Law § 601 prohibits deceptive and abusive collection conduct.
- Civil Practice Law and Rules § 213(2) establishes a six-year statute of limitations for most debt actions. If the debt is older, you may raise this as an affirmative defense.
- In New York City, collectors must also comply with Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) regulations, which impose strict disclosure and licensing requirements.
New Jersey Law
- New Jersey Fair Debt Collection Practices Act supplements the FDCPA and restricts abusive practices.
- NJSA § 2A:14-1 provides a six-year statute of limitations for most contract-based debt claims.
- Court rules require collectors to produce admissible evidence of the debt. If they cannot prove ownership, balance, or assignment of the account, the case may be subject to dismissal.
Possible Defenses Against A Tsarouhis Lawsuit
Every case requires fact-specific analysis, but common defenses include:
- Statute of limitations: If more than six years have passed since the last payment (or in some cases, written acknowledgment), the claim may be time-barred.
- Lack of standing: Collectors must prove they have the legal right to sue on the debt. If they purchased the account, they must produce valid assignment documents.
- Incorrect balance: Demands often include unauthorized interest or fees.
- Identity or fraud issues: You may not be the responsible party if the account was opened due to identity theft or clerical error.
- Procedural defects: Improper service of papers or inadequate documentation can provide grounds for dismissal.
Consequences of Ignoring the Lawsuit
Failing to respond is not a neutral choice—it typically results in a judgment.
In New York, a judgment may be enforceable for up to 20 years (CPLR § 211(b)). In New Jersey, judgments may also be enforced for 20 years (NJSA § 2A:14-5). With a judgment in hand, a creditor may pursue wage garnishments, bank account levies, or property liens.
This is why time is critical. Courts will not raise defenses for you—you must act affirmatively.
How a Consumer Protection Lawyer Can Help
An attorney experienced in defending debt collection cases can:
- Analyze the lawsuit for statutory or procedural weaknesses.
- Assert defenses under state and federal law.
- File motions to dismiss improper claims.
- Negotiate settlements under more favorable terms.
- Protect your rights against unlawful or aggressive collection tactics.
At every step, counsel ensures that collectors are held to their burden of proof. Without proper representation, you may unknowingly forfeit defenses that could reduce or eliminate liability.
New York / New Jersey Debt Collection Defense Lawyer
If you are facing a lawsuit brought by Tsarouhis Law Group, now is the time to act. Do not wait until a judgment is entered. Your rights under federal law, New York law, and New Jersey law can provide strong defenses—if asserted in time.
Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC represents consumers throughout New York and New Jersey in defending debt collection lawsuits, including cases filed by Tsarouhis Law Group. We carefully analyze each claim, raise statutory defenses, and work toward the best possible resolution for our clients. Contact Law Office of Simon Goldenberg, PLLC by calling (888) 301-0584 or contacting us online for a free consultation.