What should I do if I receive a summons for a debt collection lawsuit?

If you receive a summons for a debt collection lawsuit, you should take it seriously. The first thing you should do is check the summons closely to determine the court that issued it and follow all of the instructions it contains. You must then respond to the summons within the allotted timeframe or you could face a default judgment. Next, you should contact a qualified attorney in California who specializes in consumer debt defense law. The attorney can help you understand the legal process and advise you of your options. This includes advising whether you should respond to the lawsuit or if it’s better to negotiate a settlement. Once you have a strategy in place, you must follow through. If you don’t respond to the lawsuit or fail to attend court hearings, the court may enter a judgment against you. This could result in wage garnishment or the freezing of assets. It is also important to be aware of the statute of limitations. Under California law, the statute of limitations on a debt collection lawsuit is four years from the date of your last payment. If the lawsuit is based on a debt that is outside of the statute of limitations, you may be able to have the lawsuit dismissed. In conclusion, if you receive a summons for a debt collection lawsuit, it’s important to take the matter seriously. If possible, consult a lawyer who specializes in consumer debt defense law in California for legal advice and assistance. This will help you understand the legal process and make the best decisions for your circumstances.

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