I am being sued by a collection agency. I don't dispute that I owe this debt and want to pay it, however, how do I know if this agency legally has the right to collect it? I have just learned about validation letters, but my understanding is that you have thirty days to send one from the first communication from the collection agency. I have not done that, is it too late? Will a judge enter a judgment against me without proof?When I google the names of the collection agency and the lawyers, I find nothing but things like, "scam alert!", "rip off!, and "reports these crooks!"Unfortunately, before I learned a few things I spoke to someone and discussed payments. I also said I wanted proof that they own this debt. I was told that they "were not going to do that". The hearing is in one week. Does anyone know what I should do? I'm freaking out.
Hi Guest,
Yes it is too late validating the debt. It needs to be done within 30 days of receiving the notice. Since you have not validated the debt, you automatically owe the debt now. So, they can legally sue for not paying your debt. Why don't you try to settle the debt with the agency? Can you pay some amount of money, if not the full payment? Normally, the agencies do not go to court because it entails a lot of money. See if you can convince them for an out-of-court settlement. However, remember to do everything in writing because you need to have the proof to avoid any such problems later. Otherwise appear in court, so not avoid this, otherwise they might get a default judgment. Place your case and wait for the verdict.