Direct Merchants/Metris

Haven't you noticed this account appearing on your report before? If you never had an account with them your option is to dispute with them. Have you tried sending them a DV letter?

It's too late for a DV letter. Make sure you File a Motion for Discovery (ask the court how). They will need to prove taht it is your debt. They likely will dismiss it (hopefully).

"http://www.nedap.org/hotline/court.html" Here is a great website with detailed info on the Civil Court process, including details of your Defenses. It is for New York and may vary in some details with your state.

I would also contact Direct Merchants and inquire about this account; its possible that someone opened an account in your name (identity fraud).

All that will come out in the Discovery phase.

I have a one that they say the original creditor in Metris, as far as I can remember I have never had a card with Metris, never even heard on them. But what I really think it pertains to, is a card that I had that said it was Ameriquest, which turned into HSBC. They make everything so confusing, that you don't really know what you do or did have for sure.

direct merchants is HSBC- if that helps.

I had a credit card once (I don't remember who it was with), and it was sold to Direct Merchant's Bank. Sometimes banks will sell whole blocks of current accounts. Happened recently with a Cap One Lowes. It became a GE Money Bank account.
You may find out during discovery that this happened. It is perfectly legal.