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Case Dismissed: How One Arizona Woman Battled and Won Against a Major Debt Collector

Anne Munoz, a retired school bus driver from Arizona, fought and won against a baseless debt lawsuit, demonstrating the power of self-advocacy and inspiring others to challenge predatory debt collection practices.

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It’s far too common: debt collectors overwhelming unsuspecting consumers with lawsuits, often for debts they don’t even owe. In the United States alone, millions face this daunting reality every year. Yet, a remarkable story emerged recently from Arizona that serves as a beacon of hope for those ensnared in predatory debt collection practices. This is the story of Anne Munoz, a retired school bus driver who found her voice and fought back.

First reported on 12 News Phoenix, Arizona. Read the article here: https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/debt-collector-filed-more-than-20000-lawsuits-maricopa-county-how-one-woman-fighting-back/75-47323880-62a9-4951-8880-626c027602c3

The Unfounded Lawsuit

In September 2024, Anne Munoz received shocking news: she was being sued by Portfolio Recovery Associates, a formidable debt collection agency, for over $2,700 allegedly owed on a computer she purchased in 2011. Upon being served the lawsuit, Munoz felt an instinctive sense that something was amiss. “When you come after me wrongfully, I’m going to make as much noise as possible, and that’s what I’ve done,” she declared. With unwavering resolve, she dived headfirst into researching her case and defending herself against what she knew was a baseless claim.

A Diligent Investigation

Anne may not be a lawyer, but her tenacity and research skills proved invaluable. As she delved deeper, she uncovered a startling detail: another “Anne Munoz” had been sued for the same debt, but this woman lived in Missouri—a state Anne had never even set foot in. “This is not my debt,” she stated firmly, reinforcing her commitment to clearing her name.

Understanding her rights, Munoz filed complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, highlighting that Portfolio Recovery Associates was pursuing claims on a debt that was not only too old but also lacking sufficient documentation. Her assertions raised serious questions about the legitimacy of the lawsuit.

A Common Issue

Unfortunately, Anne’s experience is not an isolated incident. Debt collection lawsuits are all too frequent, with estimates ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 million filed against American consumers each year. In Maricopa County alone, Portfolio Recovery Associates has reportedly filed over 20,000 lawsuits since 2022. Alarmingly, a significant percentage of these cases—between 60% and 70%—often end in default judgment simply because consumers don’t respond, whether due to intimidation, confusion, or a host of other reasons.

Lester Bird from the Pew Charitable Trusts shed light on this troubling reality: “When most people aren’t engaging, the courts need to be a backstop for people to ensure that these cases are valid,” he emphasized. The urgency for reform, including better documentation requirements and support for consumers who self-represent, is clear.

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Dismissing the Case

On January 15, 2025, Anne Munoz received the news she had fought so hard for—her case was dismissed. Her determination serves as a testament to the power of advocacy and self-research. “I’m not an attorney, but I can read. I can do research, you know?” she reiterated, reminding us that knowledge is power, even if you’re fighting a giant.

A New Mission

But for Anne Munoz, victory is only the beginning. She is committed to helping others who find themselves in similar predicaments. “It’s not just me, there are other people,” Munoz shared, reflecting on the broader implications of her battle. Her story encapsulates the importance of fighting back against predatory practices and supporting those who may not have the resources or knowledge to do so.

Conclusion

Anne Munoz’s story is a powerful reminder that one person’s voice can resonate and effect change. It shines a light on the vulnerability many face when dealing with aggressive debt collection practices, and it encourages others to stand their ground when faced with unjust claims. If you or someone you know is embroiled in a debt-related legal battle, remember Anne’s journey—and know that you have the power to fight back.

In a world where debt collectors often win by default, let’s amplify voices like Anne’s and work toward a fairer system where justice isn’t solely reliant on the consumer’s response. It’s time to demand accountability, transparency, and integrity from debt collectors, and to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Read the story on 12 NEWS

https://www.12news.com/article/news/investigations/i-team/debt-collector-filed-more-than-20000-lawsuits-maricopa-county-how-one-woman-fighting-back/75-47323880-62a9-4951-8880-626c027602c3

Source: 12 News Phoenix

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Lifestyle

A How-To Guide for Participating in Clinical Trials

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(Family Features) Clinical trials help researchers studying chronic conditions answer important questions about the diseases and their treatment options. However, uncertainty about what to expect and a lack of knowledge about how to get started can prevent patients from joining a clinical trial.

Choosing to take part in a clinical trial means helping a study team figure out if a new method of diagnosis, treatment or prevention is effective. If you live with a chronic condition, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, and want to help find answers for others who share your experience, a clinical trial is an option to consider.

Once you identify a study that interests you, you’ll want to talk with the professionals involved in your ongoing treatment, a clinical research coordinator and your family to gather information necessary to determine whether the clinical trial is a good fit.

To find additional information about clinical trials and begin exploring trials in your area, visit crohnscolitisfoundation.org, and consider these steps for participating in a trial.

Clinical Trials

1. Talking with Your Doctor
Your gastroenterologist and other care providers can help determine whether a clinical trial is right for you and may be able to help point you toward recommended trials. It’s important to ask if or how your doctor will continue to be involved in your care if you participate in a trial.

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2. Finding a Study
If you need help beyond your care team in identifying clinical trial opportunities in your area, organizations dedicated to your condition can be a good resource. For example, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation offers an online Clinical Trial Finder for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease.

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3. Talking with the Research Coordinator
A clinical trial research coordinator can provide details specific to your circumstances and needs. You can discuss potential benefits and risks, why the trial is being conducted and who is involved in the health care team. You can talk about past treatments and how this study may differ from your previous experiences. Other questions you might ask include what your options are if the trial doesn’t work, any costs you might expect and what your personal commitment will be.

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4. Evaluating the Fit for You
Once you have the necessary information, you’ll be able to consider whether you’re ready to move forward with registering for the trial. You’ll want to weigh factors like your time commitment, travel distance and whether the trial will affect your personal or professional obligations.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

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SOURCE:
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation


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Consumer Corner

Trump’s opening tariff salvo will hurt US consumers − following through on Canada, Mexico threats will increase the price pain

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Jason Reed, University of Notre Dame

If U.S. voters reelected Donald Trump hoping for relief from higher prices, his recent threats to impose tariffs on America’s three largest trade partners might make them think again.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico and 10% tariffs on China, which he said would take effect on Tuesday, Feb. 4. While markets braced for the news to some degree, they still saw a steep premarket sell-off on Monday, Feb. 3, followed by morning volatility.

While Canada and Mexico negotiated monthlong reprieves on Monday, the new tariffs on China went into effect as expected Tuesday, Feb. 4. And while the ultimate shape of Trump’s tariff policy remains to be seen, the president warned that American consumers could feel “some pain” as a result.

Given my training as an economist and finance professor, I think Trump could be right on that score. In fact, if the tariffs go into effect, they could spell disaster for the Federal Reserve’s inflation reduction efforts.

From grocery stores to homes

U.S. consumers might be surprised to find out that almost every economic sector could be affected by this opening salvo of tariffs, should they go ahead in March. Imports from Mexico and Canada reached close to US$1 trillion in 2024, almost double the amount the U.S. imports from China.

The U.S. is particularly reliant on Mexico for fresh fruits and vegetables, and on Canada for lumber. So if the tariffs go into effect, Americans who have been waiting for home prices to ease may have to continue waiting, as tariffs on lumber and other building materials could worsen the affordable-housing crunch. And let’s not even talk about avocado prices.

Meanwhile, the 10% tariffs on Chinese goods will likely boost the price of electronics, and China has already imposed retaliatory measures. Trump has also proposed 25% tariffs on Taiwan and its semiconductor industry, in an attempt to push Taiwanese companies to invest more in U.S. manufacturing. If that tariff were to go into effect, prices for U.S. consumers would be even higher.

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A tax by any other name …

Tariffs are an import tax. They’re passed through the supply chain in the form of higher prices and are eventually paid by consumers. Traditionally, governments have used tariffs as a fiscal tool to encourage businesses and consumers to move away from foreign-made products and support domestic businesses instead.

In theory, new tariffs could encourage foreign businesses to invest in the U.S. and make more stuff on American soil. Unfortunately, domestic manufacturing has seen a systemic decline since the 1980s, resulting in lower prices for consumers but severely limiting U.S.-produced products. In the short term, at least, import taxes on Canadian, Mexican and Chinese products would ultimately be paid by U.S. consumers.

Although this round of tariff threats may seem arbitrary to some, the Trump administration says it considers tariffs deeply intertwined with national security concerns. Stephen Miran, Trump’s pick to chair the president’s Council of Economic Advisers, has laid out a path for Trump’s tariff plan, which he says is aimed at putting American industry on fairer ground against the rest of the world.

In the long term, it’s unclear whether Trump’s threatened trade war will bring domestic manufacturing back to the U.S. and start a new industrial renaissance. In the meantime, American consumers will likely be stuck holding the bag.

Jason Reed, Associate Teaching Professor of Finance, University of Notre Dame

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Business and Finance

Reasons to Consider an Up-and-Coming Career in 2025

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Career

(Family Features) If you’re thinking about making a career change, re-evaluating your long-term career path or looking for a career with purpose, there is one path you may not have considered – and it might be the perfect fit: funeral service.

Consider this: Funeral service is facing a critical shortage of skilled professionals in the next decade due to retiring funeral home owners and rising death rates. In fact, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) estimates 5,700 openings for funeral service workers during each of the next 10 years.

In a world where Gen Zers said having a sense of purpose is important to their overall job satisfaction and well-being, according to a study by Deloitte, there’s an opportunity for business-minded individuals, young professionals and those seeking second career paths to explore this distinguished and fulfilling profession. While 1 in 10 (12%) adults would consider a career as a funeral director, Gen Zers (44%) and Millennials (38%) admit they do not know enough about the profession based on a survey by the NFDA.

There are several reasons to consider funeral service as a career, whether you’re a new grad, a young professional looking to get your foot in the door or someone with years of experience who’d like to test your transferable skills in a new career.

1. Fulfillment and Purpose
Funerals and memorial services are an important part of the grieving process and an opportunity for family and friends to gather to comfort one another and say goodbye to their loved one.

Funeral directors are not just in charge of logistics. They play a vital role in helping families navigate one of the most challenging times in their lives. They provide emotional support, guide families through funeral arrangements and ensure the service honors the deceased’s life.

2. Community Involvement
Funeral directors are often deeply involved in the communities they serve, volunteering with local nonprofit and community organizations, sponsoring little league teams and organizing collections for troops overseas. This sense of community extends beyond the immediate responsibilities of the job, as many funeral directors take on the role of mentors and leaders, guiding the next generation of professionals.

“As I look ahead to the next 15 years of my career and beyond, I ask myself one question and encourage others to do the same, no matter what career they are in: Are you doing the work to inspire a new generation of leaders and being the person you needed when you first started out?” said Allyse Worland, CFSP, licensed funeral director. “For me, the answer is always yes, and I am excited to see what the future holds.”

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3. Ability to Own a Business
A career in funeral service offers the opportunity to own your own funeral home. With experience and business skills, you can manage and grow a company that provides essential services to your community. It’s a unique blend of compassion and entrepreneurship, allowing you to make a meaningful impact while running a successful business.

If you’re looking for a meaningful career that combines purpose, community and the opportunity for growth, funeral service might be the path for you. With the occupation’s demand for skilled professionals on the rise, now is the time to consider how you can make a difference in the lives of others while shaping the future of a growing profession.

Learn more about the career path and take a quiz to determine whether it’s right for you by visiting rememberingalife.com/careers.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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SOURCE:
National Funeral Directors Association


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