Glossary

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P

Police report
A document detailing a crime or a problematic incidence. Many times, it is the victim of the crime who reports what happened to the police, but sometimes it is a witness. Police officers generate a police report to start an investigation.
Private student loan
A student loan that is not backed (guaranteed) by the federal government.
Pro se
A plaintiff or defendant in a lawsuit who does not have legal representation. If the suit is in county or district court, a corporation cannot appear pro se.
Protective order
A court order instructing a person to stop abusing or harassing the petitioner or a fixed period.

S

Specialty consumer reporting agency
A consumer reporting agency that is not one of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies.  Examples of specialty consumer reporting agencies include agencies that compile and maintain files on consumers relating to medical records or payments; residential or tenant history; check writing history; employment history; or insurance claims. 

V

Validation notice
A written notice to the person who owes money that says the amount of the debt, the name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed, a statement that the consumer has 30 days to dispute, a statement that if the consumer disputes then the debt collector must obtain verification of the debt, and a statement that the consumer can request the name and contact information of the original creditor.
Victim of identity theft
Someone whose identifying information has been used by an unauthorized person, frequently for the financial gain of another.
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
A federal law intended to combat violence against women.