I was just served a notice I was being sued by a collection agency. I have 20 days till the next Monday or whatever. How soon can they garnish my bank account. Do they have to wait until the 20 days and I default. If I empty my bank account and leave 10 dollars what will happen? How long can they try and collect and when is it safe to use my account again? Is there a statue of limitations on bank freezes?

YOu need to defend against their claim, if you don't, they will obtain summary judgment, garnish your wages, attach your bank account.

How long is the debt?

I live in Texas and they can't garnish wages. I just emptied my bank account except for 25 dollars. I wanted to keep it open to see what happens. But how do I respond to the court papers saying the collection agency is taking me to court? It says to answer if I do not want a default judgement but how do I answer. I can't afford an attorney. Will they then set a court date and what do I do when I go to court?