I received a summons today from a credit card collection agency atty. The summons is the first piece of communication that I have had from this agency or the atty, so I am going to send a letter tomorrow requesting varification of the debt. I do owe the debt, but I need to know how to answer the summons while I am waiting for varification documents. I have 21 days to answer the summons, if I answer "yes" to owing the debt, but the collection agency is not able to provide documentation, am I still responsible? I was going to send the letter to both the collection agency and the atty (in my state), is the correct way of asking for varification?

Also, I found a sample varification letter online. There is a line in the letter that I am wondering if it pertains to my case. The letter asks for varification that the company is licensed to collect in my state. Since they have hired an atty. Is this still a valid question?

Thank you for any information!

You can answer the summons and deny the debt.

Then you can appear at your hearing, and try to defend yourself.

If they have proof of the debt, and the ability to collect it, you will find out at the hearing.

You may be able to negotiate a lower settlement prior to going to court as well.

A summons doesn't come from an atty or collector it comes from a court. So unless this "summons" came from a court and lists a docket or other court info, it's a ploy. Your only answer needs to be the request for verification.

However, if it did come from a court you need to respond to the court with your Intent to Defend.