How should a collector respond to a consumer who is represented by an attorney?

• A. Continue contacting the consumer directly
• B. Communicate with the attorney and cease direct contact with the consumer unless allowed by law
• C. Immediately file a lawsuit
• D. Ignore attorney instructions

Answer: (B)

When a consumer is represented by an attorney about a debt, the collector must direct all communications to the attorney and stop talking to the consumer directly. The attorney handles the debt, negotiates, and addresses any disputes or defenses, so the proper channel is through the attorney rather than the consumer. This protects the consumer’s rights under federal and state collection laws and helps prevent harassment or miscommunication. The collector can still obtain basic location information or respond if the attorney ends representation, but otherwise direct contact with the consumer should cease.