Pettigrew v. Cavalry Portfolio Service LLC

Background

Isaac Pettigrew, proceeding without a lawyer, brought claims against Cavalry Portfolio Service LLC under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and New York General Business Law § 349. On March 5, 2025, the court granted Pettigrew permission to proceed without paying filing fees upfront.

Order

Because Pettigrew was allowed to proceed without prepaying fees, the court stated that he could rely on the court and the United States Marshals Service to serve Cavalry. The Clerk of Court was ordered to complete a USM-285 process-receipt-and-return form, issue a summons for Cavalry, and deliver the necessary paperwork to the Marshals Service.

The court stated that service must be completed within 90 days after the summons is issued. If service is not completed within that period, Pettigrew should request an extension of time. The court also stated that Pettigrew must notify it in writing if his address changes and that the action may be dismissed if he fails to do so. The Clerk was directed to mail Pettigrew an information package, and Pettigrew was told he could receive court documents by email by completing a consent form.

Disposition and Significance

This was an order arranging service of the lawsuit, not a decision on the merits of Pettigrew’s claims. Judge Jesse M. Furman directed the Clerk to issue the summons and related documents and send them to the Marshals Service for service on Cavalry Portfolio Service LLC.