Q: I was served a civil summons brought by a debt collector, but there is no Complaint attached. How do I answer?
I was served a civil summons and given a time and date to appear before the civil sessions court to answer a civil action brought by a debt collector (small claims). However, there was no Complaint attached to the summons, only an affidavit saying how much the debt collector claims I owe. Is there something I am supposed to do before the court date? Without seeing the complaint, how do I answer it?
A: Answers are not usually filed in General Sessions Court. You go to Court and defend yourself. You are confused with Courts of Record. I recommend hiring an attorney to represent you to at least mitigate the Judgment amount, or even file a Notice of Exempt Property to forestall collection by execution.
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