Rec'd lawsuit today - what to do?

Hopefully somebody will give you some helpful information but I do know that if you don't show up in court that the judge automatically files against you. Don't know your entire story but depending on where you live wage garnishment laws differ. Some states dc's can't garnish your wages. I'd at least show up and explain your filing bk.

Good luck.

First of all, not all states permit wage garnishment. As you don't state what state you live it, I don't know about your state.

Also, even if your state permits wage garnishment, that CAN NOT happen until there is a judgment entered against you.

Whatever you do, DO NOT ignore the lawsuit. Either file for bankruptcy or respond to the lawsuit. If you do file for bankruptcy, that will stop all collection activities against you, including the lawsuit. Your bankruptcy attorney will be able to explain it to you.

Unless you file BK before the 20 days is out, I would file an Answer with the courthouse. Otherwise, you run the risk of default judgement. And, if the judgement is entered before you filed bankruptcy I think some of the collection agencies may take advantage of that fact. These agencies that file lawsuits are total bottom feeders and are not to be trusted. You can find templates for answering a lawsuit on the web, just google it.

can i still settle my debt myself with a debt collection attorney? my original debt was only 1500 and now it is 2100. how much will they take? i have 600 coming from tax refund.
thanks