Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Arizona

If you don't answer a complaint and summons, the court will enter a default judgment against you. The creditor can then only collect against any NON-EXEMPT assets. If all you earn is social security, they won't be able to collect against that. But if you have any other income or money coming to you, or you own non-exempt real estate, then they can also collect a judgment by going after your non-exempt assets.

You cannot be arrested for not answering a complaint, but you can be arrested if the court orders you to appear and you do not appear.