If you are sued for a debt, you need to go to court if you want to defend yourself in the lawsuit.  In some cases, you may be able to settle the debt before your court date. But a settlement is not guaranteed.

If you do not respond to the lawsuit or go to court, the judge may enter a default judgment against you. This means the debt collector automatically wins and can try to collect the money. This could include:

• Garnishing part of your wages (but at least $675 of your weekly take-home pay is protected),
• Freezing money in your bank account, and
• Placing a lien on your home, if you own one.

If a judgment was entered against you after January 1, 2020, $1,000 of the money in your checking or savings accounts is automatically protected until the court hears the post-judgment citation.

⚠️ Keep in mind: You may choose to not going to court for your lawsuit and have the court enter a default judgment. There are situations where you have to go to court. This includes: 

• Citations to Discover Assets to Debtor and
• Rules to Show Cause. 

Make sure to read all court papers and pay special attention to papers that say you must appear in court.