I just received a summons for unpaid credit card debt. I don't know how to proceed as I can't afford a lawyer and really don't have the money to make payments right now. I have been ill for the last couple of years and am not working permanently right now. I work at a temporary service while I am trying to find a job.

Can you please advise as to what I should do?

I recommend this article as it helps demystify the whole process and let's you know what you need to do in order to defend yourself Served a Summons Or Credit Card Debt Lawsuit - Don't Call the Creditor!

You can successfully represent yourself in a lawsuit like this. Best case scenario your case gets dismissed, worst case you'll likely be given the opportunity to make a settlement arrangement at your hearing. The debt collectors do not expect folks to fight back and are literally banking on it. If you Answer their summons and file everything on time, you are in a great position to force the creditor to produce documentation that they likely may not have.

For self represenation (called Pro Se) of a cc debt lawsuit I would recommend the following sites to help you along, CreditBoards.com - Credit Help, Credit Repair Tips, News, Forums, http://www.ihavebeenserved.info

Good luck!