What are the consequences of not responding to a summons or complaint?

In Washington, the consequences of not responding to a summons or complaint in a collection defense law case can be serious. If a person fails to respond, it is the same as admitting the debt. This means the debt collector can obtain a judgment against the debtor, allowing them to take legal action to collect the debt. This could include garnishing the debtor’s wages or bank accounts, placing a lien on property, or even seizing assets. The debtor may also be responsible for any costs associated with obtaining the judgment, such as court costs or legal fees. If the debt is not resolved, the judgment will remain on the debtor’s credit report for seven years, making it difficult to obtain loans or other forms of credit. In addition, if the debtor does not respond to the summons or complaint, the debt collector may ask the court to issue a wage garnishment. This means the debtor’s wages may be garnished, a portion of their paycheck withheld to pay the debt. This could lead to other financial problems, such as difficulty paying for other bills. It is important to note that failing to respond to a summons or complaint can have serious consequences. It is best to consult with a lawyer if a person has been served with a summons or complaint. An attorney can help the debtor understand their rights and help them negotiate with the debt collector or go to court if necessary.

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What are the consequences of not responding to a summons or complaint?

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