How to Settle Debt with the Law Office of Michael J Scott
The Law Office of Michael J Scott files debt collection lawsuits in Texas on behalf of major creditors like Capital One and Discover. You can defend yourself by requesting proof of debt within 30 days, checking if the statute of limitations has passed, or negotiating a settlement for 30-50% of what you owe.
Answer Your LawsuitThe Law Office of Michael J Scott represents creditors to collect debts through lawsuits. You could be contacted by this law office if you have outstanding debt in Texas.
You have options to defend yourself and potentially beat them in court. We’ve compiled this guide to help you protect your rights and resolve your debt.
Respond to Michael J Scott's Lawsuit in Minutes
Don't let the Law Office of Michael J Scott win by default. File your Answer within 30 days and protect your rights in court.
File Your Answer NowWhat Is the Law Office of Michael J Scott?
Formerly known as Scott Parnell, this law office commonly files credit card lawsuits in Texas. Hundreds of collection lawsuits have been filed by Michael J Scott.
You need to come to your court hearing ready to defend yourself.
Who Does the Law Office of Michael J Scott Collect For?
The law office of Michael J Scott represents these creditors:
- North Star Capital Acquisition, LLC
- Crown Asset Management, LLC
- Calvary Portfolio Services, LLC
- Equable Ascent Financial, LLC
- Arrow Financial Services, LLC
- Palisades Collection, LLC
- Advantage Assets II, Inc.
- Capital One Bank (USA)
- Citibank (South Dakota)
- Hilco Receivables LLC
- LVNV Funding, LLC
- FIA Card Services
- Discover Bank
They have quite a wide range of clientele. If you’re in debt to any of these entities, you may face the Law Office of Michael J Scott.
You still have options. Michael J Scott has experience collecting debt, but you can arm yourself with the right tools to win.
Read Online Reviews of the Law Office of Michael J Scott
Consumer reviews about the Law Office of Michael J Scott are mixed. Some reviews indicate you can have a pleasant experience working with them to resolve debt.
One borrower named Jordan shared: “Giving them five stars because they were willing to work with me in settling everything. They worked well between me, them and the court. Everything was dismissed. My suggestion to everyone complaining would be to be patient and willing to work with them, and they’ll be willing to work with you.”
Communication is key when dealing with debt collectors. The Law Office of Michael J Scott may be open to working with you on a payment plan.
If calling a debt collector doesn’t appeal to you, our partner Solo can help you negotiate and respond to lawsuits online.
How to Settle Debt with the Law Office of Michael J Scott
Settlement negotiations can help you avoid stressful litigation and potentially adverse judgments. Follow these three steps to settle your debt:
Step 1: Assess How Much You Can Reasonably Pay
Determine how much you can actually afford before starting negotiations. Calculate a lump sum amount that considers your other living expenses.
If a lump sum isn’t possible, calculate what you could pay in installments.
Step 2: Engage in Settlement Negotiations
Start by offering 30% to 50% of the original debt amount. Be prepared to negotiate upward from there.
Creditors are more likely to accept lower amounts for immediate lump sum payments. Our partner Solo can send and receive settlement offers automatically until you reach an agreement.
Step 3: Get the Agreement in Writing
Never make a payment without a written settlement agreement first. The agreement should clearly state the payment settles the debt in full.
Confirm they won’t pursue further legal action or collections. Request confirmation they’ll report the debt as “settled” or “paid” to credit bureaus.
Once you have written confirmation, proceed with payment as agreed.
Real Example: Jake’s Settlement Success
Jake, a Texas resident, received a summons from the Law Office of Michael J Scott. He had fallen behind on his Capital One credit card payments.
Jake used our partner Solo to file an Answer to the lawsuit. Then he reviewed his finances and determined he could offer $1,200 on a $2,000 debt.
He started negotiations at $1,000 to leave room for bargaining. Michael J Scott countered with $1,500.
After back-and-forth negotiations, they agreed to settle for $1,300. Jake made the payment and received written confirmation the debt was settled in full.
He also requested the law office update his credit report. By taking proactive steps, Jake avoided court and saved $700.
Respond to Lawsuits with the Right Defense Strategy
The Law Office of Michael J Scott hopes you’ll be intimidated and simply pay. Knowing your rights greatly increases your chances of winning.
Send Michael J Scott a Request for Production of Documents via certified mail. You’re asking them to show the original bill of debt with your signature.
Texas has strict consumer protection laws. If a collection agency cannot produce the required documentation, they cannot sue you.
You must send the Request for Production of Documents within 30 days of being notified. Missing this deadline means you’ll need to defend yourself in court another way.
After you send the request by certified mail, they have 30 days to respond. If they can’t produce the documents within 30 days, you’re in good shape.
If they continue to sue without producing documents, you can countersue for minimum $100 per violation. A qualified debt attorney can help you with this process.
When You Might Need a Lawyer
If the collection agency produces the original debt documentation, an attorney protects you in court. Texas doesn’t allow wage garnishment, but your bank account can be seized.
A qualified debt lawyer can represent you and create a plan. They’ll work to protect your money while satisfying the court’s requirements.
An attorney can also help remove debt listings from your credit report. If your Request for Production of Documents isn’t satisfied, legal help becomes invaluable.
Check the Statute of Limitations for Debt Collection in Texas
Texas gives debt collectors four years to sue for unpaid debt. The clock typically starts on your last payment date.
Most lawsuits get filed near the end of the four-year deadline. If you’re past the statute of limitations, your attorney can motion to dismiss.
You won’t have to pay the Law Office of Michael J Scott. You can also work to fix your credit report so the debt isn’t reflected.
Come to Court Prepared to Win Your Case
Never admit the debt is yours without proper proof. Stand your ground and make Michael J Scott produce documentation proving you owe the debt.
Many judges will side with the plaintiff unless you know your rights. Don’t trust the court to protect you if you represent yourself.
If possible, retain a qualified debt attorney. They know the law thoroughly and will fight to ensure you’re absolved of questionable debt.
An experienced attorney gives you the best chance of winning against the Law Office of Michael J Scott.