Case Information:
- Court: U.S. District Court, Northern District of Ohio (Eastern Division)
- Case No.: 1:24-cv-02070
- Filing Date: November 27, 2024
- Plaintiff: Mark J. Uhrina
- Defendant: United Debt Settlement, LLC
- Trial Type: Jury Trial Demanded
Allegations at a Glance:
Plaintiff Mark Uhrina accuses United Debt Settlement, LLC of engaging in deceptive business practices related to credit repair and debt settlement services. Uhrina claims the company misrepresented its ability to improve credit scores, instructed him to make misleading statements to creditors, failed to provide promised services, and charged fees in violation of federal and Ohio state laws.
Key Allegations:
- Defendant misled Plaintiff into believing its services would improve his credit and resolve debts.
- Plaintiff made payments to Defendant but saw no resolution of his debts.
- Defendant instructed Plaintiff to cease payments to creditors, leading to defaults and credit damage.
- Defendant provided form letters containing misleading statements about financial hardship and legal representation.
- Defendant failed to disclose important consumer rights and charged fees before services were rendered.
Legal Claims:
- Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) Violations (15 U.S.C. § 1679 et seq.)
- Misleading statements regarding creditworthiness
- False representations about service effectiveness
- Charging fees before service completion
- Failure to provide required disclosures and contract terms
- Ohio Credit Services Organizations Act (OCSOA) Violations (O.R.C. § 4712.01 et seq.)
- Failing to provide mandatory disclosures
- Engaging in deceptive and unfair business practices
- Charging fees before completing services
Relief Sought:
- Actual damages for financial harm suffered
- Punitive damages for fraudulent conduct
- Attorney’s fees and court costs
- Injunction against further unlawful practices
The Bottom Line:
The lawsuit alleges that United Debt Settlement, LLC engaged in deceptive business practices, leaving the Plaintiff in a worse financial position after months of payments. Consumers considering debt relief services should exercise caution, verify company legitimacy, and review contract terms before enrolling in similar programs.
Legal Disclaimer:
These are allegations made in a lawsuit. No liability has been established, and the case may be dismissed, settled, or decided in court.
