I got a summons a few months back for an old credit card that was sent to collections. Now, a debt collection company is suing me for it. I filed a response with the court and was assigned a hearing, which is tomorrow. I’ve never been through this before and don’t have a lawyer. Not sure how to prepare. Any advice or tips from people who’ve experienced this would be really appreciated!
Make sure to bring proof of any payments or disputes, like invoices, receipts, and statements, especially if you’re questioning the amount.
Raleigh said:
Make sure to bring proof of any payments or disputes, like invoices, receipts, and statements, especially if you’re questioning the amount.
Thanks! That’s really helpful.
The law firm representing the debt collector is based out of state, and since I got the court notice, they’ve contacted me twice about settling. Is there any chance they might not show up in court? Or am I just being too optimistic? Haha
@Miller
It’s possible! Keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best! 
Raleigh said:
@Miller
It’s possible! Keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best!
Definitely sending out good vibes for that! Haha
Raleigh said:
@Miller
It’s possible! Keep your fingers crossed and hope for the best!
Definitely sending out good vibes for that! Haha
You got this! 
@Miller
It’s possible the main office is out of state, but sometimes they have local attorneys they contract with. You might still see someone show up.
Brett said:
@Miller
It’s possible the main office is out of state, but sometimes they have local attorneys they contract with. You might still see someone show up.
Didn’t think about that. Thanks for the heads up!
Wait… if the card was charged off, do you have a letter proving that? Charged-off debts are written off, so they can’t collect from you.
Raleigh said:
Wait… if the card was charged off, do you have a letter proving that? Charged-off debts are written off, so they can’t collect from you.
I just checked my credit report again, and it’s actually in collections, not charged off. My bad! 
@Miller
Got it, no worries!
Raleigh said:
Wait… if the card was charged off, do you have a letter proving that? Charged-off debts are written off, so they can’t collect from you.
Technically, all debts get charged off after 180 days. But unless you’ve received a 1099c, the debt is still valid. I’m an attorney, by the way.
@Finlo
Good to know! My last payment was in 2019.