When a request for validation is made to the CA, they're supposed to list the TL as "in dispute", until they provide validation, correct? If they fail to do this, I have them on a violation, right? If so, what is the fine and/or penalities associated with this?
These are your credit repair bibles. You need to sleep with them at night. http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fdcpa/fdcpact.htm http://www.ftc.gov/os/statutes/fcra.htm From 623 of the FCRA: (3) Duty to provide notice of dispute. If the completeness or accuracy of any information furnished by any person to any consumer reporting agency is disputed to such person by a consumer, the person may not furnish the information to any consumer reporting agency without notice that such information is disputed by the consumer. 616 and 617 explain the possible penalties.
And don't forget to check if your state has their own version of either of these acts. Alot of times they are even more consumer friendly.