Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Sued by Collection Agency

I have received a summons sueing me for a credit card debt that I am unable to pay. I am a 69 yr old Senior Citizen living on under $10,000 I receive from Social Security and SSI yearly. I know I need a lawyer to answer the summons but I am wondering what the fees will be and any other advise you can give me.

Thank you for your assistance


Asked on 5/11/03, 4:58 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

Jason Hsu Una Law Corporation

Re: Sued by Collection Agency

You do not necessarily need an attorney to answer the summons and complaint; however, it would probably be difficult for you to answer the summons and complaint on your own without legal assistance.

As mentioned, you have a variety of options available to you, including a bankrupcty to discharge the debt. However, I would not recommend that unless you are really in a situation that requires it.

If you have no real assets that the creditors can collect upon, your creditors may think twice before they continue to pursue you in court.

This is general information that I hope has been helpful to you. However, you should always obtain legal counsel familiar with your specific circumstances. We may be able to assist you with your legal issues. If we can assist you in the future, please contact us at www.unalaw.com and somebody will assist you as soon as possible.

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Answered on 5/11/03, 9:09 pm
Robert F. Cohen Law Office of Robert F. Cohen

Re: Sued by Collection Agency

Thank you for writing. Please give me a call later in the day on Monday to discuss your options, at no charge. (310) 858-9771.

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Answered on 5/11/03, 12:56 pm
Armen Tashjian Law Offices of Armen M. Tashjian

Re: Sued by Collection Agency

1. You may file for bankruptcy protection under chapter seven, or

2. If you have no other assets (home, bank accounts such as savings, CD, stocks, bonds, etc.) then let them get their judgment. You are an "uncollectible" person, since SSI and SSDI benefits are not subject to attachment under federal law.

If you have additional questions, please e-mail me. Good luck.

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Answered on 5/11/03, 2:47 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Sued by Collection Agency

You probably need to talk to a bankruptcy attorney is the debt is substantial. However, it may be possible to have an attorney negotiate the debt down substantially. Contact me if interested in doing that. The fees would just be based upon time, with a senior discount.

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Answered on 5/11/03, 7:33 pm


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