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    punkingrrl33's Avatar
    punkingrrl33 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #1

    Sep 24, 2008, 12:03 PM
    Debt collection summons
    I have been served an initial summons for a hospital bill and am required to respond within 35 days. Is there anything specific I must include in the answer letter? How should I word it? Is it possible to avoid court at this point?
    ScottGem's Avatar
    ScottGem Posts: 64,966, Reputation: 6056
    Computer Expert and Renaissance Man
     
    #2

    Sep 24, 2008, 12:42 PM

    Yes its possible to avoid court, pay the bill or negotiate a settlement payment plan.

    As to your response, it depends on whether you feel this is a valid debt or not.
    punkingrrl33's Avatar
    punkingrrl33 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
     
    #3

    Sep 24, 2008, 01:15 PM
    Quote Originally Posted by ScottGem View Post
    Yes its possible to avoid court, pay the bill or negotiate a settlement payment plan.

    As to your response, it depends on whether you feel this is a valid debt or not.
    It is a valid debt. I just want to make sure I include all information possible. Should I make payment arrangements or what? Its kind of frustrating because I don't even know what to write!
    this8384's Avatar
    this8384 Posts: 4,564, Reputation: 485
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    #4

    Sep 24, 2008, 03:10 PM

    Write them a letter stating that you would like to arrange a payment plan to settle your account out of court. Give them your contact information so that they're able to reach you and come to some sort of compromise.
    twinkiedooter's Avatar
    twinkiedooter Posts: 12,172, Reputation: 1054
    Uber Member
     
    #5

    Sep 26, 2008, 03:53 PM

    Even if you write them a letter you still need to file a formal Answer to the Summons and Complaint in the lawsuit or you will have a default judgment entered against you. This is a "just in case scenerio" in case you don't settle with them.
    ScottGem's Avatar
    ScottGem Posts: 64,966, Reputation: 6056
    Computer Expert and Renaissance Man
     
    #6

    Sep 26, 2008, 05:21 PM

    First respond to the summons. Just state that you intend to defend the suit. Then contact the creditor and offer to make payment arrangements.

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