As a result, Chase withdrew $636.18 from my bank account today plus the insufficient funds fees that had posted to my account from the July 28th transaction. So, right now I feel like it's me against the world.
Needless to say, I was less than happy today when I spoke with the Chase Bank Claims Department and was told that I needed to provide proof that my wallet was actually stolen. The lawyer in my suddenly rose from my fury and I said very catty, "Do you want signed affidavits? Because I work for a lawyer and I can get you those."
The Chase representative explained, "No, no. I just need documentation." I said, "Oh, like my application for a new license? My receipts for new wallets? My claims I filed with the Chicago Transport Authority regarding my stolen wallet? The temporary Texas State Driver's License I was issued three days after my wallet was stolen? A representative from Wells Fargo who will also attest that one the same day (July 28, 2010) approximately five minutes after reporting my debit card stolen to Chase Bank, I also reported it stolen to Wells Fargo?"
The Chase representative could sense my frustration and he sighed and said, "Yes, ma'am."
I wanted to scream. I called Wells Fargo Bank, who I might add is looking like Mother Theresa compared to Chase Bank right now, who stated that they could provide me with a three-way dialogue whereby a Chase Bank representative would stay on the line while I telephoned a Wells Fargo representative who could attest that my debit cards was canceled on July 28, 2010, reported as stolen and a new cards were issued on the same date.
I might add, when I found out my wallet was stolen I was devastated and I called Chase Bank crying. I spoke on the phone with them and I felt comforted because the person on the other line assured me I would get my $636.18 back. Talking on the phone to the Chase Bank representative who explained to me that the bank was denying my claim because the account activity on my card looked suspicious, made me want to cry all over again. Instead of feeling reassured I felt like they had branded the scarlet letter on my forehead and I felt like Chase was accusing me of stealing.
As a law student and a future lawyer, my job is to provide my client's with justice. Sometimes justice means the client never goes to Court. In a lot of instances, the client just wants to be heard and acknowledged.
I just want Chase Bank to acknowledge they are wrong. I will fax them an entire book with proof that my wallet is stolen to prove my innocence. Because at the end of the day, we're innocent until proven guilty in this country, UNLESS you bank with Chase Bank.
Not to sound too much like a quote from the Salem Witch Trials, but...
I will go down in flames before I let anyone tarnish my reputation and scorn my good name.
