Dallas said:
Try reaching out to the agency that sent the summons and see if they’ll work out a repayment plan.
I’m willing to set up a plan. If they accept, does that mean the case will be closed?
@Finian
Most likely, yes. Just confirm with them that they’ll drop the case once you agree to the plan.
Dallas said:
@Finian
Most likely, yes. Just confirm with them that they’ll drop the case once you agree to the plan.
I’ll reach out first thing in the morning. Thanks!
Dallas said:
@Finian
Most likely, yes. Just confirm with them that they’ll drop the case once you agree to the plan.
I’ll reach out first thing in the morning. Thanks!
I’ve dealt with Midland before. Had a similar situation; I made monthly payments, and they left me alone. Just stick to the plan if they offer one.
@Finian
Midland is known for picking up old debts that have passed through multiple agencies. Before contacting them, check with your local court to see if a case has actually been filed. They sometimes use scare tactics. Verify everything first.
If you’re already being sued, the time for a payment plan might have passed.
Sometimes, they send court-like documents that aren’t actually filed.
Wynne said:
Sometimes, they send court-like documents that aren’t actually filed.
What happens if it’s not filed?
Wynne said:
Sometimes, they send court-like documents that aren’t actually filed.
What happens if it’s not filed?
If they don’t file it, it’s mostly for intimidation. But if they do file, you must respond to avoid a default judgment. Always double-check with your courthouse.
Definitely don’t ignore this. They can win by default, and that judgment can turn into wage garnishment. Look up the SOL for your state; if they can’t prove it’s yours, they might not be able to collect.
I was in the same boat. Reach out to the agency and set up monthly payments if you can. They might still summon you to court, but you can let them know you’re working on a payment plan.
How old is the debt? If you don’t respond, they’ll win by default, and the debt will be renewed.
Wendell said:
How old is the debt? If you don’t respond, they’ll win by default, and the debt will be renewed.
It’s about 3-4 years old, and I’m in Indiana. Should I contact the agency directly?
@Finian
Indiana has a 6-year limit. Might be worth calling to see if you can settle.
@Finian
Talking to a debt attorney could be helpful, and they often have flexible payment plans.
Reagan said:
@Finian
Talking to a debt attorney could be helpful, and they often have flexible payment plans.
Check with both a lawyer and the agency to see what works best financially.
Try talking to the lawyers representing the agency to see if they’ll accept a payment plan. That’s what I was advised to do when I was served.
Yan said:
Try talking to the lawyers representing the agency to see if they’ll accept a payment plan. That’s what I was advised to do when I was served.
Did they accept the arrangement you offered?
You might want to call and offer a lower amount to settle. It’s better than letting them garnish your bank account later on.
Vail said:
You might want to call and offer a lower amount to settle. It’s better than letting them garnish your bank account later on.
Is it still possible to negotiate even if the lawsuit’s already started?