court summons for an old debt?

Question

Today, I was served with a court summons for a debt that is 7 years old. I understand that this company is taking it's last chance to get it's money. The thing is, I DO NOT have it. I lost my job 5 months ago and have only been at my new one for 2. I am also trying to pay off some court costs for a different matter so i don't go to jail. I own my car but it is only worth $1,000. The debt is $5,000. Does anyone have any experience with this or any advice for me?

Answer 1

First of all, relax. You are not going to go to jail. Debt collection is a civil matter but you do have to appear on the date set. If you don't appear, that would be contempt and that will land you in jail.
You will have to appear in court and explain that while the debt is valid, you haven't worked in 5 months and since you just started a new job, you don't have the money to pay it. Now, the court will ask why you haven't made any attempt to pay it in the past 7 years.
You will have to come up with an answer for that. You may want to consider filing for bankruptcy, or at least consult with a lawyer to advise you on what to do.
Good luck.

Answer 2

in many situations with a view to make a action to garnish your wages they could have had to already gotten a courtroom settlement from the account. in the event that they have not and the statute of obstacles has expired on your state you ought to use this as your protection. First discover out the date the account became charged off and what the statute of obstacles on your state is. bypass to courtroom, in case you do no longer it won't matter they'll then get a default judgement against you and initiate garnishment.

Answer 3

broke or not the law will state, you owe it you pay for it. being broke is not an excuse. try to negotiate, for a lower sum, and monthly payments. that i think they will do. but to forgive the debt,
no.

Answer 4

First make them prove that it was you who did this credit card hospital bill whatever!