Q: Is it normal for a lawyer to contact me about an unknown collections lawsuit?

A: Collection defense lawyers do this all the time, everywhere. Whether its appropriate to do so by e-mail, I don't know. Washington State rules of professional conduct may permit it. You should be able to look up your name in your county clerk's website. Look for Court records, or something similar. Don't look in Official Records, or recorded documents, because you won't find it there.

A: It is unusual for a lawyer to contact you unsolicited about a collections lawsuit, especially if you haven't received any official court documents. Typically, you would be notified directly through legal channels, such as a summons or complaint, before being contacted by a lawyer. The email you received could be a form of solicitation, but it is also possible that it relates to a legitimate case.

To verify if the lawsuit has been filed against you, you should check with the court in the jurisdiction where you live or where the debt may have been filed. You can do this by searching for the case using the reference numbers provided in the email or by visiting the court’s website to search public records. Another option is to contact Wells Fargo directly to inquire about any pending legal actions against you.

If you do not find any records or if you are unsure, it’s best to consult with an attorney. They can help you understand whether the contact is legitimate and how to handle the situation appropriately. It’s important to protect yourself and ensure that you don’t respond to any scams or misinformation.