Discovering that someone has stolen your identity can be overwhelming. Suddenly, your name is tied to accounts you didn’t open, charges you never made, and debts that don’t belong to you. At Martin & Bontrager, APC, we work with Los Angeles residents who are dealing with the fallout of credit and identity theft—helping them challenge the damage and take legal action when needed.
The Real Cost of Identity Theft
Credit and identity theft aren’t just minor inconveniences. They can derail your ability to secure housing, loans, or employment. Once a thief uses your personal information to open fraudulent accounts, those accounts often get reported to credit bureaus. This leaves you with a credit report filled with unfamiliar or false information that can take months—or even years—to resolve if not addressed correctly.
Disputes That Go Unresolved
The typical advice is to file disputes with the credit bureaus and notify the banks or companies involved. But many victims find these efforts lead nowhere. Some agencies fail to investigate properly, while others continue reporting the same false data. When the system doesn’t respond the way it should, legal action may be the only way to make things right.
Legal Remedies for Credit and Identity Theft
Federal laws such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) offer protection when your personal information is misused or inaccurately reported. These laws require credit bureaus and data furnishers to correct errors and stop attempts to collect on fraudulent debts. At Martin & Bontrager, APC, we help clients use these laws to pursue claims and seek financial relief for the harm they’ve experienced.
Reclaiming Your Credit Profile
Clearing your name after identity theft means more than just sending letters to the credit bureaus. It involves a detailed review of your credit history, a strong legal strategy, and action against those who refuse to fix what’s wrong. Martin & Bontrager, APC is committed to helping Los Angeles residents take back control after identity theft disrupts their lives—step by step, one account at a time.
