In Massachusetts, I am currently in the process of selling a house and discovered a lien from 2008 on the property. My father, who owned the property until 2009, passed away in 2021. I inherited and took ownership of the property in April of this year. Unaware of this lien until now, the credit... View More

I am currently unemployed and struggling with significant debt. I am interested in obtaining a personal loan and would like general advice on the options available for someone in my position in New Jersey. What should I consider or prepare for when applying for a personal loan given my current... View More

On June 28, 2020, I gave my last rent check due to COVID-19 and other issues. I vacated the property in November 2020. Now, a collection agency is attempting to collect money from me, claiming I owe more than expected. I did sign a lease but can't recall the terms regarding breaking the lease... View More

My sister borrowed a total of $1,200 over four months and agreed to repay it by a specific date, which was almost a year ago. Despite acknowledging her debt, she hasn't paid anything yet. We have asked her to pay back the money, but she claims she doesn't have it. Given this situation,... View More

I live in Indiana, and Chase has issued a judgment against me regarding my credit card debt. My primary source of income is my social security benefits. Can Chase or another credit card company garnish or take my social security income to satisfy this judgment?

I am a resident of Florida, and my vehicle was recently repossessed in Polk County due to falling behind on payments as a result of financial hardship. I've received notices from the lender, but I'm seeking advice on what options I have for potentially getting my vehicle back. I'm... View More

Barry W. Kaufman
answered on Jun 11, 2026

Deal with the lender. You will likely have to pay a hefty lump sum very quickly, if that option even remains open. Your options are severely limited after your vehicle has been repossessed, and the chances of getting your vehicle back are not great.

I received a collection letter from an attorney demanding payment for a medical bill that's in my name but is covered under my mother's insurance. I'm 21 and not the policyholder. I've repeatedly informed the attorney that I'm not responsible, yet they insist that the court... View More

I am facing wage garnishment in Connecticut for a loan I never took out. The magistrate denied my pleas and made a judgment against me without notifying me first. My paycheck has been automatically garnished, even though I've signed a letter to reverse the garnishment. During a virtual court... View More

I recently discovered that I owe restitution in Washington State after 22 years. About two weeks ago, I was notified of this obligation. I've not had any prior legal proceedings or discussions with legal representatives about this restitution. Can they still come after me to collect it after... View More

I received notices from a debt collector regarding a car debt from 2006. I made the last payment on this debt in 2015. I haven't received any legal documents, but I'm concerned about the possibility of being sued or having my wages garnished. Given these details, can action still be... View More

Someone is threatening to sue me over a debt from 2008 that I don’t remember. I live in Texas, and today was the first time they called me regarding this debt. They mentioned they were trying to serve me and directed me to call back. During the call, they offered to settle for a third of what... View More

I engaged a debt settlement company 7 months ago with a contractual agreement that they would contact my credit card companies to settle my debts. My credit score has dropped almost 300 points, and one of the credit card companies informed me that they have not received any communication from the... View More

I recently had a summons of garnishment placed on my financial institution due to a repossession judgment from 2014 in Georgia. The original judgment amount was $5,400. I never received process service for this garnishment or any prior notices regarding this judgment. What are my options to address... View More

I loaned money to my brother, and his vehicle was used as collateral. The agreed repayment period expired at the end of January 2026. We had a written agreement stating that he must pay back the loan, and if not, his truck would serve as collateral. Additionally, there was an oral agreement that he... View More

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Anthony M. Avery Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 10, 2026

With no lien on the title, your lien is not perfected. So you must sue him in General Sessions for breach of contract. If you get a judgment, then you start collections, which might involve executing on the vehicle.

I have a civil warrant for a debt owed in Tennessee, and I have set up a payment plan with the opposing counsel. I received a summons before the arrangement but nothing since then, as the arrangement was recently made. The arrangement requires me to make monthly payments, but I haven't... View More

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Anthony M. Avery Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 9, 2026

I recommend going to Court and having the plaintiff put your payoff agreement down as the judgment of the Court. At least get a written agreement and make sure the Judge puts down the correct judgment amount.

I received a Summons in California regarding a $9,000 credit card debt from Wells Fargo Bank. On May 18th, someone handed me an envelope with these papers, but they did not say "you've been served." I have been trying to pay off the debt gradually, but the interest has made it... View More

Joel G. Selik
answered on Jun 10, 2026

Required, no, but it may be wise. And, at least, consult with experienced debt collection defense attorneys. They may be able to provide full or partial defenses, and may be able to negotiate a much smaller settlement.

Remember you must file your motion, or answer (with affirmative... View More

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I am a retired individual living in California and have been sued by Capital One and Discover due to credit card debt. I have already received the summons from the court. As of now, I have not pursued any negotiations or repayment plans with these creditors. Given my retirement status, what options... View More

Joel G. Selik
answered on Jun 10, 2026

Being retired does not, directly, effect your obligation to pay a debt. But, as a retired person, the assets and income may be fully or partially exempt from collection. This can prevent collection, good advice can advise on how to deal with your finances, and can come up with the best defenses.... View More

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I owe $10,000 on a car that broke down, and I'm behind on payments due to low income. I haven’t consulted with an attorney yet, but I also have approximately $15,000 in other debts, including toll roads, medical bills, credit cards, and a pet wellness plan. Since debt consolidation doesn’t... View More

Brian V. Lee Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 8, 2026

Short answer: Yes, bankruptcy is the most efficient path to a financial fresh start for you.

You have $25,000 in total debt, including a car that is no longer functional, payments you cannot keep up with on your current income, and a mix of unsecured debts, toll bills, medical bills,... View More

I loaned over $400,000 to my ex-boyfriend starting in February 2025, primarily using Zelle, Venmo, and Apple. There has been documentation throughout the 1.5 years of this loan. Despite regular communication, he hasn't made any payments and keeps promising that the money will come soon. I... View More

Steven Krieger
answered on Jun 8, 2026

I'd file a lawsuit. You need to something to create some pressure and consequences if he continues to ignore and/or deflect. I'm sure anyone who responds would be happy to help if you decide to hire a law firm to assist you.

Can a secondary lien holder, specifically one with a judgment lien from unpaid credit card debt, initiate foreclosure proceedings on real estate in Kentucky if the primary mortgage is current? The judgment lien was placed a year ago but recorded seven months ago. There have been no recent... View More