View Full Version : How do I answer a summons?
Bongonlora
Nov 26, 2008, 07:54 PM
I received a summons here in New Mexico.I am having a financial problem so we decided to call AFS to help us with our dept, that is last Feb or March. Now I received this summons and I don't know what to do. I don't know how to answer the summons.And don't know what to do with it. Do I just answer what they want me to answer or I need to provide another sheets to send to them?Really hard, I don't really know this kind of things.Makes me scared and nervous. . help.
mlr08
Nov 26, 2008, 11:29 PM
I know that this sort of thing is SO unsettling but these lawsuits can be fought and you can represent yourself successfully.
Start with this article at Served a Summons Or Credit Card Debt Lawsuit - Don't Call the Creditor! (http://ezinearticles.com/?Served-a-Summons-Or-Credit-Card-Debt-Lawsuit---Dont-Call-the-Creditor!&id=1613780) it should help illuminate the procedure and help you understand what steps you need to take.
You do need to file an Answer and assert what are called "Affirmative Defenses". There are many helpful people on message boards that do cite some examples such as www.creditboards.com and www.creditinfocenter.com. Also, check out your State or district's judicial website as they sometimes have PDF's of basic pleading documents. You can also purchase fill-in-the-blank templates at HOW TO ANSWER A CREDIT CARD DEBT LAWSUIT AND WIN!!! (http://www.howtoansweracreditcarddebtlawsuit.com)
Good luck to you and try not to be too intimidated. Remember that the majority of debt collectors who bring about a lawsuit do not expect you to answer. Turn the tables on them!