How to Negotiate with Suttell and Hammer: Expert Tips for Success
Responding to a Suttell and Hammer lawsuit is critical to avoid default judgment. Start negotiations low at 30-50% of the debt value and always get settlement terms in writing. Check if the statute of limitations expired on your debt, which could dismiss the lawsuit entirely.
Answer Your LawsuitGetting sued by Suttell and Hammer for an alleged debt can feel overwhelming. You might wonder who they are and why they’re targeting you. Don’t lose hope. You have legal rights and protections when facing a collections lawsuit. Affirmative defenses exist that can help you prevail in court.
Who Is Suttell and Hammer?
Suttell and Hammer is a law firm that represents large financial institutions. They handle collection actions for major banks like Discover and Bank of America. When borrowers can’t pay back credit cards, auto loans, or mortgages, banks hire this firm. Suttell and Hammer then files collections lawsuits against borrowers to recover the debt.
Respond to Suttell and Hammer Before Your Deadline
Don't risk default judgment and wage garnishment. File your Answer correctly and on time with expert help.
Respond to Lawsuit NowThe firm operates across multiple states and focuses exclusively on creditor representation. They file hundreds of lawsuits monthly on behalf of their clients.
Why You Must Respond to the Lawsuit
Responding to your lawsuit separates you from most consumers. Many people sued by debt collectors make a critical mistake: they ignore the Summons and Complaint. Whether you owe the debt or believe the lawsuit is wrong, filing an Answer is crucial. Your response highlights any deficiencies in their Complaint. It also buys you time to negotiate a settlement.
Our partner Solo makes it simple to respond correctly and on time.
The Dangers of Ignoring the Lawsuit
Failing to respond allows Suttell and Hammer to obtain a default judgment. A default judgment gives them powerful collection rights. They can take these actions against you:
- Garnish your wages from every paycheck
- Freeze and withdraw money from your bank accounts
- Seize your personal property to satisfy the debt
- Collect attorney’s fees and court costs on top of the debt
You typically have 20 to 30 days to respond to the lawsuit. Check your Summons for the exact deadline in your state. Missing this deadline can cost you thousands of dollars.
Expert Tips for Negotiating with Suttell and Hammer
Debt law firms like Suttell and Hammer will negotiate with you. If unexpected financial struggles left you unable to pay, you can reach an agreement. An experienced attorney shared these valuable negotiation strategies based on extensive experience with debt collectors.
1. Understand Your Debt Inside and Out
Confirm the total amount owed before entering negotiations. Know the interest rates and any potential fees. Understanding exact figures strengthens your negotiating position. Request debt validation if you’re unsure about the details.
2. Start with a Low Offer
Debt collectors often purchase debts for pennies on the dollar. They may settle for less than the full amount. Begin negotiations around 30-50% of the debt value. Starting low leaves room for counteroffers. This strategy increases your chances of reaching an acceptable agreement.
3. Always Communicate in Writing
Put all settlement offers in writing to create a clear record. Written communication prevents misunderstandings about settlement terms. Use certified mail to send your offers. You’ll have proof of delivery if disputes arise later.
4. Consider Using a Third-Party Service
Our partner Solo can handle the negotiation process for you. Third-party services protect your personal information from debt collectors. They reduce the stress of dealing with aggressive collection tactics directly.
5. Prepare for Multiple Counteroffers
Debt collectors will counter your initial offer. Expect to negotiate back and forth several times. Each round brings you closer to a final settlement. Stay patient and persistent throughout the process.
6. Get Everything in Writing Before Paying
Never make a payment without a written settlement agreement. The document should clearly state all terms. Include the settlement amount and payment deadline. Specify that the payment resolves the debt in full. Without written proof, the collector could claim you still owe more.
7. Protect Your Financial Information
Be cautious about sharing personal financial details with debt collectors. They can use this information to pressure you. Services that act as intermediaries keep your information secure while facilitating settlements.
Check If the Statute of Limitations Has Expired
Many debt collectors file lawsuits without checking if they can legally sue you. Each state sets time limits for filing debt collection lawsuits. These statutes of limitations typically range from three to six years. After the deadline passes, collectors cannot legally sue you for the debt.
Debt collectors operate volume practices where they file hundreds of lawsuits monthly. Given the high volume, they often neglect to verify statute of limitations dates. If the statute expired, you can raise it as an affirmative defense. This defense could enable you to dismiss the lawsuit entirely.
Research your state’s statute of limitations for your type of debt. Note when you made your last payment. The clock usually starts from that date.
What Others Say About Suttell and Hammer
Suttell and Hammer has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau since 2019. They currently hold an A+ score, the highest BBB rating possible. However, customer reviews tell a different story. They earned only one out of five stars in customer reviews. You can read consumer complaints submitted to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. These reports provide insights into how the firm treats consumers.
Common complaints include aggressive collection tactics and poor communication. Some consumers report difficulty reaching agreements despite willingness to pay.
Your Action Plan When Sued by Suttell and Hammer
Follow these steps if you receive a collection notice or lawsuit from Suttell and Hammer:
- Dispute the debt with all three major credit bureaus if you don’t recognize it
- Document any calls before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM
- Record any calls made to your workplace
- Note any use of vulgar or inappropriate language
- File your Answer to the Summons and Complaint before the deadline
- Raise affirmative defenses like statute of limitations in your Answer
- Demand proof of the specific amount owed
- Consider filing a counterclaim for Fair Debt Collection Practices Act violations
- Contact Suttell and Hammer to negotiate settlement terms
- Be honest about your financial situation during negotiations
- Expect several counter offers before reaching an agreement
Our partner Solo helps you respond to debt lawsuits and negotiate settlements effectively. You can answer the lawsuit correctly and protect your rights.