Q: I have a civil summons of 3,000 .Court is in 2 days. I do not have a lawyer. What can I do or expect
I thought my case was October 30th, but yesterday I realized it is August 30th. I do not have time to meet with an attorney, I do not have the items that Im being sued to pay. The debt is 4-5 years old and my summons was served in June of this year. What can I expect if I do not have an attorney. Can I call the Attorneys office I was served through and set a plan? Can I file last minute on my own for another court date? Im in Murfreesboro Tn. Im so scared.
A: First, you should appear. Otherwise, the judge will most likely enter a default judgment. You will also have an opportunity to discuss the alleged debt with the plaintiff's attorney and maybe reach a resolution. You may also request a continuance. Cases are often continued to afford someone like you to consult with an attorney or to permit additional time to respond. If the case is based on a "sworn account" there are other procedures. Such as pre-filing a sworn denial. But some judges permit your appearance to be a sworn denial. If you're not sure of what to do, asking for a continuance is a good first option to buy you more time to figure things out.
Bruce Alexander Minnick agrees with this answer
1 user found this answer helpful
A: Be sure to appear for the court date and ask for time to hire a lawyer. They will probably give you a continuance.
Bruce Alexander Minnick agrees with this answer
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