Hello there, I'd like to start by saying thanks to all of you guys that help us out here. Next, if my question has already been answered here on these boards and I was just too dense to find it please point me in the right direction. :)

Here is my question: My fiancée was sued over credit card debt. We responded our intent to defend and requested discovery. We have received in the mail a disclosure statement upon which is attached copies of all of her past credit card statements but no signed original agreement.

So is the jig up? Do they have us in a position where we need to settle or can we still get this dismissed? Any advice on our next step would be most helpful as we cannot afford to pay for a lawyer.

Generally speaking, valid debts are, well... valid, and you got to pay. I'm unclear if you feel the charges are actually her's though. If identity theft is suspected, you might have some other options with the card company although I have no clue what the options might be this late in the game.

If the charges are valid...

I believe that it may be possible that the creditor will accept as full payment a smaller immediate one-time payment that will eliminate the debt. Talk to them.

1. Might not work.

2. If you try it, and creditor agrees, be sure to get it in writing that the lower payment will erase all other obligations against the debt before you pay anything.