Sued by debt collection agency..What happens if I don’t show up for written appearance?

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Sued by debt collection agency..What happens if I don’t show up for written appearance?

I’ve been presented with a summons to appear in court for a written appearance brought about by a collection agency..they have sued for an amount of $2793.07…I’m unemployed, and don’t have any money..What are the ramifications if I decide to ignore this summons? Are we talking jail time here??

Asked on May 29, 2009 under Bankruptcy Law, Illinois

Answers:

J.M.A., Member in Good Standing of the Connecticut Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 14 years ago | Contributor

The collection agency as you said is simply trying to collect on a debt.  this is a civil matter, not criminal so that worse thing that can happen is that the agency gets a judgment against you and it will be valid for 20 years.  Therefore, if you win the lotto or get a job, the agency will be able to come after you for the money you owe, plus interest and other fees.  Realisticall, the company will just write off the debt if they believe it to be uncollectable.


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