Answer: Yes. If you are in default, we can help you navigate rehabilitation or consolidation for federal loans to restore good standing. For private loans, we can negotiate with lenders for a settlement or defend you if a lawsuit has been filed.
Student loan debt can feel overwhelming and often comes with confusing terms, aggressive collection tactics, and frustrating errors. Cannon Legal PLLC is committed to providing Texas consumers with the legal support and guidance needed to address their student loan issues.
Whether you’re struggling with repayment, facing default, dealing with unfair collection practices, or suspect you’ve been targeted by a student loan scam, our experienced team can help you understand your rights and explore your options.
We offer comprehensive legal assistance to help you regain control of your financial future. We can assist you with:
Answer: Yes. If you are in default, we can help you navigate rehabilitation or consolidation for federal loans to restore good standing. For private loans, we can negotiate with lenders for a settlement or defend you if a lawsuit has been filed.
Answer: There is no statute of limitations on federal student loans—they can be collected indefinitely. However, private student loans in Texas generally have a four-year statute of limitations. Once this period passes, the lender cannot legally win a lawsuit to collect the debt.
Answer: You may qualify if your school misled you about job placement rates, transferability of credits, or the cost of the program. You must file a claim with the Department of Education detailing the school’s misconduct and how it caused you financial harm.
Answer: Courts use the “Brunner Test” or a “Totality of Circumstances” test. You must generally prove: (1) you cannot maintain a minimal standard of living if you pay; (2) this situation is likely to persist; and (3) you have made good faith efforts to repay.
Answer: Generally, private creditors cannot garnish wages in Texas for consumer debt. However, they can sue you, obtain a judgment, and potentially seize funds from your bank account. It is crucial to defend against these lawsuits before they reach the judgment stage.
If you are served with a lawsuit related to your student loan debt, it is crucial to respond to the lawsuit promptly. Failure to do so can result in a default judgment against you. Contact Cannon Legal PLLC immediately to discuss your case and understand your legal options and defenses.
In Texas, your wages cannot be garnished for private student loan debt without a court order due to state law. However, the federal government can administratively garnish wages for federal student loan debt that is in default, without a court order, after providing notice and an opportunity for a hearing.
You have the right to dispute errors on your student loan account by sending a written dispute letter to your loan servicer. Similarly, you can dispute inaccuracies on your credit report directly with the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). The servicer and credit bureau are then obligated to investigate and correct any verified errors. If the errors are not corrected, we can assist you in filing a complaint with the CFPB.
If you are being harassed by a student loan debt collector, you have the right to send a cease communication letter demanding they stop contacting you. Keep a record of all communications, and be aware that debt collectors are prohibited from using abusive tactics, making false threats, or contacting you at certain times or places. You can also file complaints with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Texas Attorney General and consider legal action for violations of the FDCPA and TDCA.
As a student loan borrower, you have numerous rights under federal and Texas law. These include the right to accurate information about your loan, the ability to apply for alternative repayment plans for federal loans, options for forbearance and deferment if eligible, and protection against wage garnishment for private student loans in Texas without a court order. You also have the right to dispute errors on your loan and credit reports and to be free from harassment by debt collectors.
Don’t face your student loan challenges alone. At Cannon Legal PLLC, we understand the complexities of student loan debt and are dedicated to protecting your rights as a borrower.
Contact Cannon Legal PLLC today for a confidential consultation and let us help you find a path forward.