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Earlier editions: 2020-112018-112026-09

DIVISION 3. OBLIGATIONS 1427-3273.91›PART 4. OBLIGATIONS ARISING FROM PARTICULAR TRANSACTIONS 1738-3273.91›TITLE 1.6C. FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES 1788-1788.33›ARTICLE 2. Debt Collector Responsibilities 1788.10-1788.185

§ 1788.16

California Civil Code · 2026-10 edition · updated 2026-10-04 · California

It is unlawful, with respect to attempted collection of a covered debt, for a debt collector, creditor, or an attorney to send a communication that simulates legal or judicial process or that gives the appearance of being authorized, issued, or approved by a governmental agency or attorney when it is not. Any violation of the provisions of this section is a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding six months, or by a fine not exceeding two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500) or by both.

(Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 522, Sec. 10. (SB 1286) Effective January 1, 2025.)

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California Civil Code

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