Hospital’s request to delay trial on collection law violations denied by the Wisconsin Court of Appeals

Wisconsin Court of Appeals

The Wisconsin Court of Appeals on October 17, 2024, issued an order that will require Hess Memorial Hospital to stand trial on charges it violated the Wisconsin Consumer Act.

Hess sued a patient, and the patient retained Attorney Briane Pagel and LawtonCates, S.C., who filed a counterclaim alleging that Hess had engaged in illegal collection practices and violated the Wisconsin Consumer Act. Hess claimed it was not subject to the Act, but the Circuit Court disagreed and denied Hess’s motion to dismiss. Rather than proceed to trial, Hess attempted to delay matters by asking the Court of Appeals to allow it to appeal now, rather than at the end of the case. The Court of Appeals’ order today denied that request.

This is the second time in 2024 that Lawton Cates has established that hospitals are subject to the Wisconsin Consumer Act’s debt collection rules.

If you are struggling to pay bills, getting harassed by creditors, or facing a lawsuit, contact LawtonCates for a free consultation with our consumer protection lawyers today.

Attorney Terry Polich is a seasoned trial lawyer focusing on personal injury, lemon law, and civil litigation. Recognized as one of Wisconsin’s leading consumer warranty attorneys, he has secured millions in recoveries for clients, including multiple seven-figure wrongful death and injury settlements. Terry also serves on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Association for Justice and the Jason Simcakoski Foundation, where he advocates for improved mental health treatment for veterans.