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3 Tips when Facing a Debt Collection Lawsuit

By Ashley Russell on July 13, 2011

court-(1).jpgWhat to do if you are being sued?

For the thousands of people are so contacted by debt collectors every month, the age old adage is to not pick up the phone when it rings. Debt collectors have very little power except to threaten to go to court over debt. In reality however, a very small percentage of people are taken to court over personal debts. In the unlikely circumstance that you are one of the unfortunate few who are, here are a few tips:
1. Start picking up the phone. Instead of just ignoring creditor calls, you need to begin to respond and get information about your court proceedings. Unlike collection calls, being taken to court creates real timetables of when certain things have to be filed and with whom. Ignoring the calls will only make your life harder and get you into more trouble down the line when you miss deadlines that matter.

2. Get help. Laws are confusing, and financial law is even more so. Unless you are a debt law expert, finding some kind of help is your best bet. This does not mean you need to go drop thousands on a fancy attorney, especially since you are being sued for debts, but there are many free or cheap ways to seek legal advice. Many organizations in your area may have seminars or information on debt, as well as local legal societies. There are often organizations on college campuses as well that can sometimes help non-students if all you want to do is talk about your situation.

3. Decide on a course of action. The most common courses of action in debt law suits are either fighting it or working out a way to pay off the debt without having to go through the entire court proceedings. After looking over your situation and the advice you received, make a decision on whether you think you have a legitimate case against the claims against you, or whether you would be better off just contacting the opposing lawyer and working out a way to pay off your debt.

Law can be confusing. Take your time, learn about your situation, and ask questions. Be smart, because taking on a lengthy legal battle can end up costing as much as the debt you are being sued for very easily.
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