How to Settle Debt With Michael J Adams PC
If Michael J Adams PC is suing you for debt, respond within 20-30 days to avoid default judgment. File an Answer, request proof of debt, and use valid defenses like payment, mistaken identity, or statute of limitations. Negotiating a settlement is possible when you communicate openly about your financial situation.
Answer Your LawsuitFinancial challenges can strike without warning. Taking proactive steps to address outstanding debts helps you regain control and move toward stability.
If you’re dealing with collection activity from Michael J Adams PC, engage directly. Work toward a resolution that fits your situation.
Don't Let Michael J Adams PC Win by Default
You have 20-30 days to file your Answer and avoid default judgment. Our partner Solo helps you respond to the lawsuit and negotiate a settlement that works for your budget.
File Your Answer NowOpen communication is essential when dealing with debt collectors. Reaching out allows you to clarify your situation and validate the debt. You can explore settlement or repayment options that match your financial circumstances.
Many collectors are willing to work with people who demonstrate genuine intent to resolve debts.
If you’ve received a lawsuit notice, don’t ignore it. Respond promptly with a legal Answer to protect your rights. Understanding your rights and engaging in the process helps you negotiate settlements and prevent further collection activity.
You can take control of your financial journey starting today.
Who Is Michael J Adams PC?
Michael J Adams PC is a debt collection law firm based in San Antonio, Texas. The firm helps creditors collect debts through litigation and judgment execution.
The firm’s lawyers initiate lawsuits against debtors who have defaulted on payments. Michael J Adams PC prides itself on firm collection policies and vast experience.
The firm has represented renowned creditors, including GE Money Bank, Try Capital LLC, and American Express Bank. If Michael J Adams PC is suing you, you have options to preserve your rights.
Who Does Michael J Adams PC Collect For?
Michael J Adams PC collects for a wide variety of businesses:
- American Express Bank
- Duke Capital, LLC
- GE Money Bank
- Genesis Recovery Services, Inc.
- Integras Capital Recovery, LLC
- Forsythe Finance, LLC
- Try Capital LLC
These are just a few of the firm’s clients. Credit card companies and consumer lending agencies may rely on Michael J Adams PC to recover debts.
Respond to the Lawsuit Quickly to Avoid Default Judgment
The most common mistake debtors make is ignoring the Summons and Complaint. Whether you owe the debt or were sued in error, you must respond to the allegations.
You must file a response with the clerk of court within 20-30 days. You can respond to the lawsuit in two ways:
- File an Answer
- File a Notice of Appearance
File an Answer to the Allegations
An Answer is a written response to the statements in a complaint. It confirms whether you deny, admit, or lack knowledge regarding the plaintiff’s assertions.
Don’t admit to statements if you disagree with them. If you’re unsure about the amount owed or account number, state that you disagree with the allegations.
Filing a response on time ensures you retain your rights to argue in court. You’ll receive notice of future hearings and can continue your defense.
Send a copy to the Michael J Adams PC representative. Keep a copy for your records.
Our partner Solo can help you draft and file your Answer to avoid default judgment.
File a Notice of Appearance to Require a Hearing
A Notice of Appearance states your intention to appear in court. Delivering this document prevents the court from entering default judgment without a hearing.
Unlike filing an Answer, a Notice of Appearance doesn’t explain your position regarding the lawsuit.
Request Proof That You Owe the Debt
Buying, servicing, and selling of debt is so common that original creditors rarely hold accounts for long. Creditors enlist debt collection law firms as their last resort.
Michael J Adams PC is unlikely to have the original contract you signed. According to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) and state statutes, collection law firms must:
- Attach to the Complaint a written contract, agreement, or copy of the account
- Attach proof of assignment
If the firm can’t provide these documents, the court may dismiss the case. You can ask the court to require the debt collection firm to provide missing documentation.
You must request that the firm send proof within 30 days of receiving the debt’s initial written notice. Once the law firm gets your letter, it must:
- Stop any debt collection activity, including filing or continuing the lawsuit
- Provide the requested proof
If the firm fails to provide proof and continues demanding payment, you can file a counterclaim. Some states allow debtors to counter-sue for damages for failing to verify the debt.
If successful, you get $1,000 for every lawsuit plus court costs, attorney fees, and damages.
Make the Right Defense Against Michael J Adams PC
Payment of the Debt as a Defense
Payment makes an excellent defense in any debt collection lawsuit. It remains valid even if you paid a different party, such as the original creditor.
If the creditor hasn’t alerted the law firm and you’ve been sued, assert payment as a defense. The amount can be partial or in full.
Mistaken Identity or Identity Theft as a Defense
You can use this defense if the debt isn’t yours. Mistaken identity occurs when the firm mistakenly identifies you as someone else with the same name.
Identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information to open credit accounts in your name. The onus of proof lies with the plaintiff to prove you owe the debt.
You can deny the charge based on either of these defenses.
Statute of Limitations as a Defense
The debt may be too old to be enforced. According to state law, debt collectors have limited time to file lawsuits against debtors.
The period varies by state, ranging from three to twenty years. If the statute in your state has elapsed, the statute of limitations is a valid defense.
Avoid making payments before the period lapses. Payments reset the time all over again.
How to Settle Debt With Michael J Adams PC
Settling a debt is often the best resolution, especially if Michael J Adams PC has filed a lawsuit. The settlement process is straightforward and includes these steps:
- Take a hard look at your current financial situation. How much can you afford to offer to settle the debt? Having at least 50% of the amount owed is a good starting point.
- Make an offer to settle for less. Explain the hardships that have contributed to the need to settle. State the proposed settlement amount and when you can pay. Be prepared for negotiations at this point.
- Get a signed settlement agreement. Once you’ve reached an agreement, receive a signed copy of the settlement agreement (stipulated judgment) for your records. Ensure the document gets filed with the court to prevent further legal issues.
- Make the payment by the agreed-upon date. Follow through on your commitment to complete the settlement.
Read Michael J Adams PC Reviews Before Negotiating
Learning about Michael J Adams PC helps you prepare to negotiate. Understanding what you’re up against when crafting a defense or settlement strategy is valuable.
Read consumer reviews online to learn from others’ experiences:
- Michael J Adams PC reviews with the Better Business Bureau
- Michael J Adams PC reviews submitted on the CFPB consumer database
- Michael J Adams PC reviews on Google
Here’s a real example of a Michael J Adams PC review from Jonathan:
“Very easy to deal with and negotiated a settlement with me in just several minutes of talking to them. Lesson learned never co-sign on a vehicle for anyone including family.”
Clearly it’s possible to negotiate with the firm and resolve your outstanding debt. The key is to communicate openly and honestly about your situation.
Many people feel intimidated about calling a law firm to negotiate. Our partner Solo helps streamline the negotiating process and moves debt settlement online.