Resources, CaseDefender

The case, step by step

A debt lawsuit follows a predictable path. Each stage explains what's happening, what to do, and what can help.

Step 1ServedSomeone handed you (or left you) court papers called a Summons and Complaint.Step 2AnswerYou're within your deadline and haven't filed anything yet.Step 3ArbitrationYou've filed your Answer and your credit agreement has an arbitration clause.Step 4DiscoveryYour case is moving and no trial date has arrived yet.Step 5Summary judgmentThe collector filed a motion asking the judge to rule without a trial.Step 6SettlementYou want to resolve the case without going all the way to trial.Step 7TrialYou have a trial or hearing date scheduled.

The documents

All documents

What each one is for, when you'd need it, and what happens if you skip it. Plain English.

Your AnswerAnswer to ComplaintThe one document you cannot skip. It tells the court you are fighting the case.Moving your case out of courtMotion to Compel ArbitrationOften the single strongest move available to you, and the reason many collectors walk away.Making them prove itDiscovery RequestsWritten questions that force the company to show what it actually has. Often, that is very little.Ending it on your termsSettlement LetterPuts an offer in writing, with the protections that keep a deal from coming back to haunt you.

Who's suing you?

All companies

Most debt lawsuits come from the same handful of companies. Find the name printed on your paperwork.

Midland Credit Management Portfolio Recovery Associates LVNV Funding Cavalry SPV I Jefferson Capital Systems American Express National Bank Discover Bank Capital One Synchrony Bank Citibank

Watch John explain it

1,100+ more on YouTube

John Skiba has been making these videos for years, free. One for each part of the case.

Just got served

Getting Sued By A Debt Collector? DO THIS FIRST!

Writing your Answer

How To Draft A WINNING Answer To Your Debt Collection Lawsuit

Forcing arbitration

How to Win Your Debt Collection Lawsuit by Compelling Private Arbitration (2022 UPDATE)

Making them prove it

Using Written Discovery to Win Your Debt Collection Lawsuit (2022 UPDATE)

Settling safely

Debt Settlement Agreement (3 Terms You Need To Have)

Already lost by default

THREE Ways To Deal with Your Default Judgment! (2022 Update)

Courses

Watch how it's done

Short video lessons from John Skiba, organized by the stage your case is in.

The blog

Articles

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CaseDefender provides fill-in-the-blank forms and general legal information. It is not a law firm, does not act as your attorney, and does not provide legal advice. No attorney-client relationship or privilege is created.