What happens if a debt collector has filed a lawsuit against me?
If a debt collector has filed a lawsuit against you in South Dakota, you must respond in order to prevent a judgment from being entered against you. You can do this by responding to the debt collector in writing within 35 days of being served with the lawsuit. Your response should include any defenses, such as the statute of limitations for the debt, which is 6 years from the date the debt was incurred in South Dakota. It is important to be mindful of the deadlines to file a response, as failure to do so can result in a default judgment. If a debt collector obtains a default judgment, it may then try to garnish your wages, attach your bank account, or place liens on your property. It is advisable to consult a lawyer if you have been sued by a debt collector. An attorney can assist you in reviewing the lawsuit paperwork, exploring potential defenses, and responding to the debt collector in a legally compliant manner. A lawyer can also represent you in debt collection hearings and settlement negotiations.
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