News Archives

Category Archives: News

Maurice Wutscher’s Donald Maurice to Chair New York City Bar’s Consumer Financial Law Institute

April 10, 2025 — Maurice Wutscher partner Donald Maurice on May 5 will chair the Consumer Financial Law Institute hosted by the New York City Bar Association at its offices in New York.

Maurice Wutscher is sponsoring this CLE event, which will bring together industry leaders and regulators to discuss trends and developments in consumer financial law, including a look at the next four years; credit reporting; buy now pay later; cryptocurrency; and more.

The agenda includes:

A Look at the Next Four Years: This panel of financial services attorneys will share their analysis of the second Trump administration and its impact on the consumer protection landscape. The discussion will cover changes at the CFPB, FTC, DOJ, prudential banking regulatory agencies and state regulators and what those changes mean for market participants. Panelists will provide thoughts on how businesses may adapt to a pullback in federal oversight while mitigating the risk of state or private actions.

Credit Reporting Highlights: Unpacking Recent FCRA Related Developments: The CFPB has been very active in the FCRA space with rulemaking and recent enforcement activity. This panel, featuring the President & CEO of the Consumer Data Industry Association (CDIA) and a representative from FTI Consulting, will discuss what these developments mean for institutions and how they can best be prepared operationally going forward.

Charting the Future of Buy Now Pay Later: The President & CEO of the Financial Technology Association and other industry leaders from WebBank, Block and Zip will speak about innovations in the BNPL space and its regulatory environment. The panel will touch on the pay-in-four nature of the product, including modernized credit reporting that accurately captures BNPL data.

Cryptocurrency: In light of the current regulatory environment, with federal regulation and enforcement of cryptocurrency waning, New York’s comprehensive licensing and regulatory efforts are drawing more attention. The panel, which includes the Deputy Superintendent of Virtual Currency at the New York State Department of Financial Services, will discuss regulation of crypto platforms and recent developments.

Protecting Consumers in the Age of the Internet: How the Online Marketplace Challenges Regulators, and Ways to Work Within the Tangled (Worldwide) Web: The Deputy General Counsel, NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, will discuss the online marketplace, the challenges of Communications Decency Act limitations, ever-changing content that requires resource-intensive monitoring, jurisdictional challenges, and even court orders as its own obstacle.

General Business Law 349: How Well Does Our General Consumer Protection Law Serve New Yorkers?: Many are surprised to learn that New York has one of the narrowest consumer protection laws in the country. The CFPB and the FTC have urged New York to expand General Business Law 349’s ban on deceptive business acts and practices. Proposed legislation seeks to dramatically expand GBL 349. A senior staff attorney from Mobilization will examine the ins and outs of this law and how well it measures up nationally.

The Consumer Financial Law Institute will be held from 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. and includes a networking breakfast and luncheon. The institute is open to nonmembers and will provide at least 6.0 hours of CLE. For more information and to register, click here.

Donald Maurice represents the financial services industry, successfully litigating matters in appellate and trial courts throughout the country in individual and class actions and guiding businesses, trade associations and financial services companies nationwide in regulatory and compliance matters including data privacy and ethics. He has been retained as counsel for amicus curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court and in U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals, and frequently testifies before state legislatures. Mr. Maurice is outside counsel to RMAI and serves as chair of the New York City Bar Association’s Consumer Affairs Committee. He is a regent of the American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers and a fellow of the ABA’s American Bar Foundation. He has been named to Thomson Reuters’ list of New Jersey Super Lawyers and is peer-rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the worldwide guide to lawyers.

Maurice Wutscher Attorney Donald Maurice Named 2025 Super Lawyer

March 24, 2025 — Donald Maurice, a partner at national business and financial services law firm Maurice Wutscher LLP, has been named a New Jersey Super Lawyer in the area of Class Action/Mass Torts.

Each year, only five percent of the lawyers in the state receive this honor. Super Lawyers is a Thomson Reuters rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.

Donald Maurice provides counsel to businesses and financial services companies, successfully litigating matters in appellate and trial courts throughout the country in individual and class actions. He has been retained as counsel for amicus curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court and in U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals, and frequently testifies before state legislatures.

He also counsels clients in data privacy law and other regulatory compliance matters and provides advice and counsel to attorneys in matters of professional responsibility and attorney ethics.

In addition to being a frequent speaker and author on consumer financial services law, he is outside counsel to Receivables Management Association International. Mr. Maurice serves as chair of the New York City Bar Association’s Consumer Affairs Committee. He is a regent of the American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers, a fellow of the ABA’s American Bar Foundation and a former chair of the ABA’s Debt Collection Practices and Bankruptcy Subcommittee, Business Law Section.

Mr. Maurice is rated AV Preeminent, the highest rating given by Martindale-Hubbell, the worldwide guide to lawyers. A description of the selection methodology can be found at www.martindale.com/ratings-and-reviews/.

This communication is published by the law firm Maurice Wutscher LLP and may be considered attorney advertising under the ethical rules of certain jurisdictions. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey.

Maurice Wutscher Attorney Shannon Miller to Discuss Best Practices for Data Security at CLE Webinar Course

March 12, 2025 — Maurice Wutscher attorney Shannon P. Miller will discuss best practices for data security in the collections industry during the NBI Live Webinar course, “Keeping Collections Compliant: Communications, Guarding Debtor Data, and More,” on March 19 from 12 pm to 3:15 pm ET.

Presented by the National Business Institute, the course will feature Mr. Miller along with a panel of attorneys who will deliver practical guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of collections rules and consumer protections.

In addition to insight on how to safeguard data and respond to a data breach, the course will cover FDCPA updates and best practices, CFPB enforcement priorities, TCPA and FCRA compliance, and debtor communications.

The course is designed for attorneys, but accountants, collections professionals, and paralegals may also find it valuable.

CLE credits will be provided. For more information and to register, click here.

Shannon P. Miller is a principal attorney in Maurice Wutscher’s Pennsylvania office, where he focuses his practice on various aspects of financial services law with an emphasis on consumer financial services litigation. He has successfully represented healthcare and financial institutions and law firms across the country for claims filed under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and various state consumer protection statutes.

Maurice Wutscher Attorney Alan Hochheiser to Discuss RBF Industry Compliance Requirements

Feb. 24, 2025 — Maurice Wutscher attorney Alan Hochheiser will speak on regulations and compliance requirements impacting the revenue-based financing industry at the Funders Forum + Brokers Expo in Hollywood, Fla. on Wednesday, March 5.

In this session, Mr. Hochhesier and panel will break down key upcoming regulations and compliance requirements relevant to the RBF industry, including the CFPB’s 1071 data collection rule, California’s APR disclosure requirements, new debt collection regulations, and other forward-looking regulatory topics and potential risks.

For more information and to register for the Funders Forum + Brokers Expo, click here.

Alan Hochheiser is a leading practitioner in the areas of creditors’ rights and bankruptcy law. He advises and represents businesses, regional and national banks, credit unions, equipment lessors and other lenders, as well as secured and unsecured creditors. He has been named to Thomson Reuters’ list of Ohio Super Lawyers, ALM’s list of Cleveland’s Top-Rated Lawyers and is peer-rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the worldwide guide to lawyers. He currently chairs the ABA Business Law Section Consumer Bankruptcy Committee.

Maurice Wutscher Attorney Shannon Miller to Discuss Strategies for Trial Attorneys at CLE Webinar Course

Feb. 3, 2025 — Maurice Wutscher attorney Shannon P. Miller will discuss key strategies for trying a case effectively including the secrets of effective opening statements during the NBI Live Webinar course, “The Complete Civil Trial Attorney,” on Feb. 28 from 10 am to 5 pm ET.

Presented by the National Business Institute, the course will feature Mr. Miller along with a panel of seasoned trial attorneys who will reveal critical tactics every trial attorney needs to know.

In addition to a discussion of opening statements, the program will cover trial preparation; evidentiary issues; jury selection; evidence presentation, witness testimony, and objections; cross-examination strategies; and more.

CLE credits will be provided. For more information and to register, click here. Use Promo Code FSPN50A at checkout to get $50 off.

Maurice Wutscher Attorneys to Speak on Bankruptcy, Debt Buying and Compliance Matters at RMAI Conference

Jan. 21, 2025 — Maurice Wutscher attorneys Alan Hochheiser and Donald Maurice will speak on bankruptcy, debt buying, and legislative and regulatory compliance matters impacting the receivables management industry at RMAI’s annual conference in Las Vegas Feb. 10-13.

Mr. Hochheiser will participate in a discussion of current issues in bankruptcy litigation for debt buyers, sellers and servicers. His panel will include a chapter 13 trustee.

Mr. Maurice will present RMAI’s introductory survey course on debt buying and participate in a session reviewing new state laws and regulations impacting the receivables management industry. He will also discuss New York City’s amended debt collection regulations.

For more information about the Receivables Management Association International conference click here.

Donald Maurice represents the financial services industry, successfully litigating matters in appellate and trial courts throughout the country in individual and class actions and guiding businesses, trade associations and financial services companies nationwide in regulatory and compliance matters including data privacy and ethics. He has been retained as counsel for amicus curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court and in U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals, and frequently testifies before state legislatures. Mr. Maurice is outside counsel to RMAI, a regent of the American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers, and a fellow of the ABA’s American Bar Foundation. He has been named to Thomson Reuters’ list of New Jersey Super Lawyers and is peer-rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the worldwide guide to lawyers.

Maurice Wutscher Attorneys Alan Hochheiser, Jake VanAusdall to Present Live CLE Webinar Course on Collections Law Compliance

Jan. 3, 2024 — Maurice Wutscher attorneys Alan Hochheiser and Jake VanAusdall will present a live CLE webinar course, “Collecting Debt: Strategies for Navigating Collections Law Effectively for Paralegals and Associates” on Jan. 9 from 1 to 3:10 pm ET.

Focusing on compliance with the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and other collection protection laws, the webinar will review the FDCPA and its compliance requirements and restrictions. It will also include a discussion on cybersecurity and data protection for the credit and collection industry. In addition, attendees will learn effective settlement negotiations and how to properly structure repayment agreements. Lastly, there will be a discussion on how to most effectively execute on a judgment and other post-judgment collection tools.

Presented by myLawCLE and the Federal Bar Association, the course will be a valuable tool for those in the collections industry including associates and paralegals.

CLE credits will be provided. Click here to register through myLawCLE or here to register through the Federal Bar Association. Use Promo Code CollectingDebtCLE at checkout for free access to the webinar.

Jacob “Jake” VanAusdall is Senior Counsel in the Nashville office of Maurice Wutscher LLP. He practices in the firm’s Consumer Credit Litigation and Commercial Litigation groups predominantly representing creditors and financial institutions. Jake also has substantial litigation experience representing clients involved in intellectual property, construction, business and bankruptcy matters and represents numerous clients in the revenue-based financing industry. Jake has been recognized as a “Mid-South Super Lawyers – Rising Star” in the area of Business Litigation (2018-2024).

Webinar: Maurice Wutscher’s Donald Maurice to Speak on Buy Now, Pay Later Market

Dec. 9, 2024 — Maurice Wutscher attorney Donald Maurice will join a panel of speakers to discuss the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) market, including its growth, consumer demographics, and transaction dynamics, during an RMAI webinar Thursday, Dec. 12 at 12 pm ET.

The panel will discuss how the BNPL market is evolving as a financial product, who the typical BNPL consumer is, and how the market is impacting both consumers and lenders. They will also explore the regulatory landscape surrounding BNPL, with a focus on upcoming CFPB rules and proposed legislation in New York that could reshape the industry, and will discuss how recovery strategies are evolving, how disputes are handled, and whether lenders are adequately prepared for future challenges.

This webinar will equip professionals with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the BNPL industry and understand its future trajectory.

For more information and to register for the Receivables Management Association International webinar, click here.

Donald Maurice represents the financial services industry, successfully litigating matters in appellate and trial courts throughout the country in individual and class actions and guiding businesses, trade associations and financial services companies nationwide in regulatory and compliance matters including data privacy and ethics. He has been retained as counsel for amicus curiae in the U.S. Supreme Court and in U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals, and frequently testifies before state legislatures. Mr. Maurice is outside counsel to RMAI, a regent of the American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers, and a fellow of the ABA’s American Bar Foundation. He has been named to Thomson Reuters’ list of New Jersey Super Lawyers and is peer-rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, the worldwide guide to lawyers.

Maurice Wutscher LLP Ranked as a Top Litigation Firm in Chambers USA Spotlight Guide

Dec. 4, 2024 — Maurice Wutscher LLP has been ranked in the Chambers USA Spotlight Guide: New York and recognized as a top firm handling high-quality litigation work, one of only 44 law firms to be recognized in its category.

In its assessment, Chambers and Partners found that Maurice Wutscher evidenced significant expertise, caliber of talent and experience serving a range of clients in the market.

“Maurice Wutscher houses a strong financial services group which is admired for its expertise in the consumer finance space. The firm is noted for its handling of enforcement actions and its ability to deal with consumer class action lawsuits,” Chambers notes.

The Chambers Spotlight rankings were awarded to select small and medium-sized law firms in the state. These ranked firms were recognized for their strengths in key practice areas and the ability to offer go-to counsel for legal buyers looking for more options and local expertise.

“Maurice Wutscher is honored to be among the few firms recognized with a Chambers Spotlight,” said Maurice Wutscher partner Donald Maurice. “We are grateful for the selection. It underscores our attorneys’ unique skills, commitment to our client’s needs, and the successful record we have built over the past 30 years.”

This recognition underscores Maurice Wutscher’s position as a key player in New York’s legal landscape, offering clients throughout the state access to high-quality legal representation that combines big-city expertise with local specialized support.

New York’s diversified business community is reflected in the New York Chambers Spotlight 2025 Guide, with 210 leading firms ranked across 24 distinct practice areas. The firms were selected based on independent and in-depth market analysis, coupled with an assessment of their experience, expertise and talent. Maurice Wutscher is one of only 44 firms in New York City to be recognized in Litigation: General Commercial.

Chambers and Partners is the leading independent professional legal research company delivering detailed rankings and insight into the world’s leading lawyers and law firms. To learn more about Maurice Wutscher’s ranking, click here.

About Maurice Wutscher LLP

Maurice Wutscher is a boutique law firm with offices in key cities nationwide providing superlative defense and a results-oriented approach to every matter. With decades of experience and leadership in consumer financial services law, commercial litigation, bankruptcy law, high-stakes appeals and critical motions, and data privacy and security, the firm’s attorneys provide trial and appellate litigation in state and federal courts as well as class action defense and regulatory compliance services. Dedicated to their clients’ success, Maurice Wutscher’s team of attorneys are committed to delivering unparalleled client service, efficiency, and innovation.

Maurice Wutscher Attorney Erin McCampbell Paris Wins Bail for Client

Dec. 2, 2024 — The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has granted bail pending appeal to Michael Lacey, a defendant in the Backpage case who is represented by Erin McCampbell Paris, an appellate and constitutional litigation attorney at Maurice Wutscher LLP.

In securing this rarely granted relief, Ms. Paris masterfully presented issues of first impression, including a challenge to the scope of conduct chargeable under the applicable money laundering statute, and a First Amendment challenge to the proceeds analysis.

Erin McCampbell Paris focuses her practice on Appellate and Constitutional Litigation, representing individuals and companies in complex criminal and civil matters. In helping her clients to secure hard-won victories, she draws on her extensive litigation experience, as well as her experience as a former law clerk to federal district and circuit judges. She may be reached at (716) 474-0285 x4703 or via email at [email protected].

Maurice Wutscher LLP Adds Appellate and Constitutional Litigation Attorney Erin McCampbell Paris

Nov. 21, 2024 — Maurice Wutscher LLP has added appellate and constitutional litigation attorney Erin McCampbell Paris. A proven advocate for individuals and companies in complex criminal and civil matters, Ms. Paris has secured victories in appellate and trial courts in high-stakes matters across the country.

She joins Maurice Wutscher’s team of skilled and seasoned litigation and compliance attorneys who specialize in consumer financial services law, commercial litigation, bankruptcy law, high-stakes appeals and critical motions, and data privacy and security in offices throughout the United States.

Mrs. Paris began her career clerking for federal judges, including the Honorable Robert E. Cowen, Senior Circuit Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit; the Honorable Dora L. Irizarry, District Judge for the Eastern District of New York; and the Honorable Kiyo A. Matsumoto, District Judge for the Eastern District of New York.

She is a member of the First Amendment Lawyer’s Association, the Second Circuit C.J.A. Panel, the Appellate Practice Section of the Bar Association of Erie County, and the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York.

Mrs. Paris lectures and provides commentary on developments in constitutional law and appellate practice.

She has served on non-profit boards, including the Board of Directors for the Women’s Bar Association of the State of New York-Western New York Division, Second Generation Theatre, and the Orchard Park Presbyterian Church.

Ms. Paris was awarded her Juris Doctor degree from Washington and Lee University School of Law, where she graduated cum laude. She served as Senior Articles Editor of the Law Review and received the Law Review-Law Council Award for Best Student Note. She earned a Bachelor of Arts, summa cum laude from the State University of New York at Albany.

Ms. Paris is admitted to practice in the State of New York, the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Courts of Appeal for the Second, Third, Fourth, Sixth, Seventh, and Ninth Circuits, and the Southern and Western Districts of New York.

Erin McCampbell Paris may be reached at (716) 474-0285 x4703 or via email at [email protected].

Webinar: Maurice Wutscher’s Brent Yarborough to Discuss Differences Between Debt Validation and Verification

Nov. 18, 2024 — Maurice Wutscher attorney Brent Yarborough will discuss the differences between debt validation and verification during a webinar Friday, Nov. 22 at 1 pm ET.

Debt validation and debt verification are terms often used interchangeably, but with distinct meanings that can make all the difference in collections. In this webinar, Mr. Yarborough and panel will break down the critical differences in these terms as they review practical strategies and best practices to interpret consumer needs, respond correctly and stay compliant.

“The Differences Between Debt Validation and Debt Verification” is being presented by AccountsRecovery.net. To register for the complimentary webinar, click here.

Brent Yarborough is a principal at Maurice Wutscher LLP. He focuses his practice on regulatory compliance and the defense of consumer law claims.