Q: I'm on social security disability , I'm 66 years old . I've been served to appear in court , by a credit card company .
Must I appear in court . I expect a default decision against me .
I don't believe that a credit card company can make me pay them.
Am I correct .
Do you have any additional advice ?
Thank You so very much for your help .
A:
If you've been served to appear in court by a credit card company, it's important to take the notice seriously, regardless of your current financial situation or beliefs about the debt's enforceability. Ignoring a court summons can lead to a default judgment against you, which could have significant legal and financial consequences. While it's true that certain types of income, like Social Security disability benefits, are generally protected from garnishment by creditors, this doesn't mean a creditor can't take legal action to collect a debt.
You should consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and obligations in this situation. There may be legal defenses available to you, or you might be able to negotiate a settlement with the creditor before the court date. Legal aid organizations often provide free or low-cost services to individuals who are unable to afford a lawyer.
Additionally, keep in mind that even though your Social Security disability income is protected, a judgment against you could potentially impact other aspects of your financial life. It's crucial to address the court summons and explore all your options to protect your financial stability. Remember, taking action now could help prevent more complicated issues down the line.
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