Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Florida

Re: Collection for a hospital bill

NOTE: This communication is not intended as and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Rather, it is intended solely as a general discussion of legal principles. You should not rely on or take action based on this communication without first presenting ALL relevant details to a competent attorney in your jurisdiction and then receiving the attorney's individualized advice for you. By reading the "Response" to your question or comment, you agree that the opinion expressed is not intended to, nor does it, create any attorney-client relationship, nor does it constitute legal advice to any person reviewing such information, nor will it be considered an attorney-client privileged communication. If you do not agree, then stop right here, and do not read any further.

You have several choices and four come to mind: 1 - you can call the hospital and try to explain your situation and offer to make monthly payments of a minimal amount (perhaps $5 - $10); 2 - you can call the hospital and try to explain your situation and ask them to write off your debt under the Hill-Burton Act wherein all hospitals are required to give a certain amount of free medical care to indigent clients; 3 - you can go to court and explain your situation to the judge who will then try to broken a reasonable payment arrangement; or 4 -you can ignore the lawsuit and allow a judgment to be entered against you. Your social security wages are protected against garnishment as is your homestead.

Scott R. Jay, Esq.