Sued by Zarzaur & Schwartz? Your 4-Step Defense Plan

Finding yourself sued by Zarzaur & Schwartz feels overwhelming. You never expected to face legal action over debt.

But you have options. You can respond effectively and protect your rights.

Here’s your roadmap to navigate this lawsuit. You’ll learn about Zarzaur & Schwartz, how to answer their complaint, and negotiate a settlement.

You can turn this challenge into a manageable situation.

Who Is Zarzaur & Schwartz?

Zarzaur & Schwartz operates as a debt collection law firm based in Birmingham, Alabama.

They represent creditors and debt buyers in collecting unpaid debts. Their portfolio includes credit card balances, loans, and medical bills.

The firm uses letters, calls, and lawsuits to collect outstanding debts. When original creditors can’t collect, they hire firms like Zarzaur & Schwartz.

Who Does Zarzaur & Schwartz Collect For?

Zarzaur & Schwartz works with diverse creditors across multiple industries.

Their clients include:

• Citibank
• Credit Corp Solutions Inc
• Midland Credit Management
• LVNV Funding
• Medical service providers and hospitals
• Utility companies
• Property management companies

Major financial institutions trust them to recover outstanding debts. Smaller specialized lenders also use their services.

If Zarzaur & Schwartz contacts you about debt, take action immediately. Ignoring them makes your situation worse.

Your 4-Step Plan When Sued by Zarzaur & Schwartz

Follow these four steps to protect your rights and resolve the lawsuit.

Step 1: File Your Answer to the Lawsuit

Filing a written Answer is your first priority. You must submit this document before your state’s deadline.

Missing the deadline results in a default judgment. The court automatically rules against you without hearing your side.

Here’s how to create and file your Answer:

• Read the Complaint and Summons carefully to understand their claims
• Format your Answer properly with case information, court location, names, and case number
• Respond to each claim individually by denying, admitting, or denying due to lack of knowledge
• Deny most claims unless you’re absolutely certain they’re accurate
• Include affirmative defenses like expired statute of limitations or insufficient proof
• Sign your Answer document
• Print three copies: one for the court, one for Zarzaur & Schwartz, one for your records
• File the original with the court clerk
• Mail a copy to Zarzaur & Schwartz

Our partner Solo helps you draft and file your Answer correctly.

After filing, gather all relevant documents supporting your defense. Collect contracts, receipts, correspondence, and payment records.

You may need this evidence if your case goes to court. Having documentation strengthens your position during settlement negotiations.

Step 2: Negotiate to Reduce Your Debt

Contacting Zarzaur & Schwartz directly can reduce what you owe. Strategic negotiation often results in significant savings.

Follow these negotiation steps:

1. Investigate the debt first. Gather all documentation, correspondence, and financial statements. Verify the debt amount and original creditor. Request debt validation if needed.
2. Make a realistic settlement offer. Calculate what you can genuinely afford to pay. Start with 30-50% of the total amount. Present your offer professionally and clearly.
3. Explain your financial constraints honestly. Share circumstances affecting your ability to pay. Job loss, medical emergencies, and other debts matter. Transparency builds goodwill during negotiations.
4. Document every conversation. Keep notes of all phone calls and save all emails. Record names, dates, times, and what was discussed. This documentation protects you from future disputes.

Offer a lump-sum payment if possible. Creditors prefer immediate payment over installment plans.

Stay calm and professional during discussions. Focus on finding mutually beneficial solutions.

Our partner Solo streamlines settlement negotiations with debt collectors like Zarzaur & Schwartz.

Step 3: Get Your Settlement Agreement in Writing

A written settlement agreement protects both parties. Verbal agreements mean nothing if disputes arise later.

The agreement should include specific payment amounts, payment schedule, and settlement conditions. Without written terms, you risk additional legal complications.

Here’s how to secure your written agreement:

• Request Zarzaur & Schwartz send you the settlement agreement document
• Review the document thoroughly for accuracy and completeness
• Verify all verbally discussed terms appear in writing
• Check for errors or confusing language
• Ask questions about anything you don’t understand
• Sign the agreement only after you’re completely satisfied
• Return the signed document to Zarzaur & Schwartz
• Follow up to ensure they file it with the court
• Keep a copy for your personal records

A consent judgment becomes enforceable in court. It provides legal protection once you fulfill your obligations.

After completing payments, you’re released from further liability on that debt. The written agreement prevents the creditor from pursuing additional collections.

Step 4: Make All Payments on Time

Timely payments are essential to your settlement agreement. Missing payments triggers serious consequences.

Zarzaur & Schwartz will explain acceptable payment methods. Options typically include online portals, direct deposit, or mailed checks.

Missing a payment can reinstate your original debt amount. Interest and fees get added back immediately.

Your financial burden escalates quickly when you default. Creditors may pursue wage garnishment or property liens.

Consistent payments demonstrate reliability and rebuild your credibility. Your credit score improves gradually over time.

Sticking to the schedule shows good faith and may help future negotiations.

If you can’t make a payment, contact Zarzaur & Schwartz immediately. Explain your situation before the payment is due.

They may grant a grace period or adjust terms temporarily. Communication prevents default and keeps your agreement intact.

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act Protects You

The FDCPA sets strict guidelines for debt collectors. These rules protect you from harassment and unfair practices.

Zarzaur & Schwartz must follow these federal regulations:

• No contact before 8 AM or after 9 PM
• No vulgar or abusive language during calls
• No false threats of lawsuits or legal action
• No contact at your workplace if you’ve requested they stop
• No harassment or repeated calls intended to annoy you
• No disclosure of your debt to third parties
• No misrepresentation of debt amounts or legal status

If Zarzaur & Schwartz violates these rules, document the violations. You can file a counterclaim for FDCPA violations.

Successful counterclaims may result in compensation for damages. You could recover up to $1,000 plus attorney fees.

Affirmative Defenses That Can Win Your Case

Your Answer should include strong affirmative defenses. These legal arguments can get the case dismissed.

Zarzaur & Schwartz must prove three critical elements:

1. They have legal standing to sue you
2. You are the person who owes the alleged debt
3. The amount they claim is accurate and verifiable

If they can’t prove these elements, you may prevail in court.

Common affirmative defenses include:

• Statute of limitations expired. Each state sets deadlines for filing debt collection lawsuits. If the deadline passed, the case gets dismissed with prejudice.
• Lack of standing. Zarzaur & Schwartz must prove they own the debt or represent the owner. Without proper documentation, they can’t sue you.
• Insufficient evidence. They must provide original creditor documentation, account statements, and chain of custody. Missing documents weaken their case significantly.
• Identity theft or fraud. If you didn’t create the debt, you’re not liable. File a police report and dispute the debt.
• Debt already paid. If you settled or paid this debt previously, provide proof. The case should be dismissed immediately.

Don’t admit you owe the debt in your Answer. Make Zarzaur & Schwartz prove their case with documentation.

The more you challenge their claims, the more likely they’ll settle favorably.

Read Zarzaur & Schwartz Reviews Before You Respond

Research helps you understand what to expect from the firm. Online reviews provide valuable insights.

Check these resources for consumer experiences:

• Better Business Bureau profile
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau complaint database
• Google reviews

Reviews for Zarzaur & Schwartz are mixed. Some consumers report positive experiences when communicating with the firm.

One borrower named Tamren shared: “I was a little skeptical about calling based on the reviews. I didn’t have a long wait time, I didn’t have to call multiple times and the two ladies I spoke with this morning were very nice helpful and informative. They work with you and the prices are reasonable.”

Proactive communication improves your chances of reaching an amicable resolution. Many collectors prefer negotiation over lengthy court battles.

If calling debt collectors feels intimidating, consider digital alternatives. Online settlement platforms let you negotiate without phone conversations.

Quick Action Checklist for Zarzaur & Schwartz Lawsuits

Save this checklist to ensure you take all necessary steps:

• Respond immediately. File your Answer within 20-30 days (check your state’s specific deadline). Address every claim and include affirmative defenses.
• Negotiate proactively. Contact Zarzaur & Schwartz with a realistic settlement offer. Be prepared to discuss your financial situation honestly.
• Document everything. Keep records of all phone calls, letters, and emails. Note dates, times, names, and conversation details.
• Get written agreements. Never accept verbal settlement terms. Request formal written agreements that specify all terms.
• Pay on schedule. Make every payment on time according to your agreement. Contact them immediately if you foresee payment difficulties.
• Verify completion. After final payment, request written confirmation that your debt is satisfied. Ensure they file dismissal paperwork with the court.

Taking swift, organized action protects your rights and finances. You can successfully resolve a Zarzaur & Schwartz lawsuit.

Our partner Solo guides you through every step of responding to debt collection lawsuits.