Illinois Debt Collection Laws: Breaking News - Chicago's New Debt Collection Ordinance

Today, February 21, 2013, The National List published the white paper on debt collection law in Illinois, written by attorney Sam J. Fratantoni and the law firm Arthur B. Adler & Associates. Sam revised this paper just before publication in order to add information on the new ordinance that was just passed in Chicago requiring debt collectors to obtain a Chicago business license, if they collect against debtors residing in Chicago. Aside from statutory penalties, a failure to comply can result in revocation of the debt collector’s license, which then cannot be reinstated for a period of four years. The statute does not apply to attorneys. The ordinance takes effect July 1, 2013.

Arthur B Adler & Associates in Chicago, is a private company. The firm handles retail and commercial collection matters throughout the state of Illinois and has been doing so since its inception in 1972. One hundred percent of the law practice is dedicated to debt collection. The firm has been a member of The National List since 2001.

Sam received his law degree from Loyola University Law School in 1982 and his undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, from Loyola University in 1979. He joined the firm of Arthur B. Adler & Associates in 1985, where he has been practicing exclusively in the area of Collections and Creditors’ Rights. He has been working in the debt collection industry for 30 years.

In addition to information about the new Chicago Ordinance, Sam told us these and other interesting facts about debt collection in Illinois:  1) “Debt Buyers must be particularly vigilant about obtaining full chains of title that clearly show the transfer of each purchased account from the original creditor to the current owner.” 2) “Claims for interest, attorney fees and collection costs must be supported by clear language in the agreement between the parties that shall be attached to the complaint.” 3) “Any foreign judgment that is registered in the state will be accorded full faith and credit and be treated as an Illinois judgment thereafter.”

Sam Fratantoni

“The variety” is what Sam enjoys most about his job. “I deal with clients, office and litigation procedures and strategies, together with account resolution.” He adds, “Some of the best attorneys I’ve met are the most humble. Treat others as you wish to be treated.”

Sam is a member of the National Association of Retail Collection Attorneys (NARCA), the Debt Buyers Association (DBA) and the Illinois Creditors Bar Association. Outside of work he enjoys following his favorite sports teams, playing hockey and spending time with his friends and family.

The National List thanks Sam for submitting this paper and for allowing us to get to know him and Arthur B. Adler & Associates, Ltd. a little better. You can access the paper and more information about the new ordinance at http://www.nationallist.com/white_papers/illinois.