[Debb123]

It is about $1300 dollars on an old credit card, we have really seen hardtimes. It is a 3rd party creditor. We own to 20 yr old cars, a checking account, a child support debt, medical debt and nothing else. I just want to know how to deal with court that day, etc ? Thank you Gary and Debbie

[melmalah]

Sounds like your debt is minimal, don't file bankrutcy unless you have property they could put a lean on. If you show up in real pitiful looking shape they will probably just let it go anyway.

[ScottGem]

Have you responded to the summons?

What correspondence have you had with the plaintiff?

If you can't pay the debt, the court will award the plaintiff a judgment. With this judgment they can attach your bank accounts. They may not be able to do anything immediately, but the judgment will last for 7-10 years maybe double that.

[Fr_Chuck]

Yes, if you appear in court looking badly, that will only go worst on you. They will wonder if you don't have respect for the court.

[melmalah]

You cannot go to jail for being broke; blame the recession like the rest of America. Ignore harassing debt-collectors that make it hard to live your life and pick up the pieces for the constant phone annoyance. Pay back what you can when you can

[melmalah]

They are not going to offset your bank account for $1300. Look presentable, but not overly dressed. Do not file bankruptcy on an amount of that nature; what if down the line you have serious medical bills totaling huge amounts.