Where can I find an attorney to defend me against a judgment? What type of law does this fall under?

Question

A default judgment was obtained against me. While surfing the net I found out this particular company settled with 8 separate states for a class action law suit along with the FTC for various charges (for collection tactics and obsene charges / collection fees).

The court has already overturned 24million in "default judgments". The FTC set up a website as well. They are facing federal racketerring and RICO charges as well by 8 different state attorneys.

Answer 1

If a default judgment was entered -- that means you have already been sued and lost (by default). You now need to challenge that default judgment, and try to find some legal reason why the default should be set aside. Much more complicated than just defending the lawsuit would have been in the first place.

You can find attorneys through the yellow pages -- or attorney referral services. FindLaw. com is one online referral site. Or you can contact your state or county bar association -- they often have referral services as well.

The class action issue is irrelevant to your predicament -- because in your case, the suit was against you, not against the other company.

Answer 2

Yes, it is civil law. Many attorneys who practice civil law will have it noted in the phone book, or listed as "non criminal" etc. Many people do the leg work and represent themselves in civil cases as well.

It may be beneficial to contact the court to see if there is a motion of some sort you may file asking to vacate the default judgment. It may also be a good idea to contact the attorney representing the company to see if you can come to some form of agreement.

Answer 3

Default judgments are civil law, and you can probably find a lawyer in the yellow pages. Not really a specific field.

Answer 4

what makes you think you have a defense against this default judgement. Just because the company has been fined, cited or admonished doesn't mean YOUR judgement is invalid.