Just been served for 5 yr old credit debt
I had great crdit up until 4 yrs ago after going through 2 hurricanes in a row in Florida. I had no renters insurance and my place was condemned due to mildew. All of my furniture, clothes etc. were ruined. I packed up and moved to Colorado and this was not as easy as I thought. I was unable to keep up w/ bills for about a year, I then tried to get debts taken care of by calling collection agencies. Debts were all triple the original amounts and agencies wanted big lump sums up front. I called consumer credit counselors and after going through all of that paper work, the counselor gave me a payment of 600.00 monthly for six years. I did not go through w/ that because I could'nt afford such a big payment. Well, I let the debts go and have had horrible credit for 4 yrs. I bought a car at 18% interest and that is all I have. Well, yesterday I was served for the three biggest debts which totalled 7,000 when I left Florida. The summons says I owe 21,000 with all of the interest and fees. I am at fault and I know I did this to myself! I want good credit and I want to pay off my guilt but I can't afford a huge amount up front. Do I get a lawyer? Do I represent myself in court and just tell the truth? I am scared and I am afraid that I will have wages garnished. Is BK smart in this situation. Please give advice, thanks I live in Colorado and my credit cards all were started in Florida. I have not had any action on these cards for 4.5 yrs.
