Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Pennsylvania

I have a few outstanding credit cards that i have not paid and ignored for 2 yrs now. i recently received a letter saying i was getting sued in court. i am planning on still ignoring it with the assumption that at worse they can do is put a judgement against me. but i dont know what they can do. can i receive jail time, or can they go after my wife and baby for payments? i cannot and will not pay anything to them, i just cant afford to. what is the worse thing that will happen to me if i just keep ignoring their calls and letters, and dont pay them?


Asked on 9/14/10, 8:58 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

You can't ignore it if its in court. They can seize your bank accounts, and execute on the judgment by selling your possessions.

There are likely very valid defenses to the suit against you. I do these kinds of cases and have been successful at defeating collection agencies in court. I would be willing to answer your questions if you want to email me and give me more information. I practice statewide and have very reasonable fees.

Feel free to email me.

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Answered on 9/19/10, 9:05 am
Matthew Nahrgang Nahrgang & Associates, P.C.

Thank you for your inquiry below.

When you are in a situation in which it is difficult or impossible to repay your debts, you have several options. One is to negotiate with your creditors. However, that is time consuming, uncertain and possibly pointless if you do not have the ability to pay them. The second option is to ignore the debt. The creditors will hassle you, possibly sue you and could seize your assets and bank accounts. The third option is bankruptcy.

There are two types of bankruptcies for consumers, Chapter 7 and 13. The former is generally for those who simply require the elimination of unsecured debt such as credit cards. The latter is generally for those who have fallen behind in secured debt such as a mortgage. Chapter 13 allows you to repay any arrears over five years.

In each case, the filing of the bankruptcy creates what is known as an automatic stay. That prevents any creditor from taking any action whatsoever. They cannot call you, write you or sue you. Moreover, once we are retained, you can tell anyone who contacts you to contact us and that should provide you with some relief. Ultimately, when you receive a discharge order, the automatic stay becomes permanent.

Rest assured, I will provide you with clear and simple advice and information. If you call me and reach my voice mail, please feel free to leave a message as all calls are confidential.

Feel free to contact me at your convenience.

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Answered on 9/20/10, 7:58 am


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