So I received a summons last week here in New York City. It says plaintiff is Citibank though I have my doubts about that as the debt is almost 2 years old and I think it may have been sold of or at least there must have been insurance received on it ( not to mention the billions in bailout money) Forster & Garbus are not the most trustworthy organization. The debt is around 6,000 and I am trying to decide wether to get a lawyer or answer myself. I have spoken to 2 lawyers so far and they are all about settling. I may be paranoid but wonder about collusion between these lawyers and Forster & Garbus. ( If any one has any recomendations for NYC please let me know.) I have sent validation letters asking for an agreement with my signature but only received statements. Any advice on how to proceed would be appreciated. I really dont want to settle on principle. I want to fight these guys.
crickets. Ok I guess I have to settle. End this fast and easy and let the bastards get away with another one.
Sorry, I don't have any good recommendations for lawyers in NYC. I'm out on the West coast. It sounds like what they've sent you for validation may be sufficient. Settling this and getting it over with may be the best option for you. Of course, you don't need a lawyer to do that. Armed with some basic negotiation skills, you should be able to reach a reasonable agreement on your own. Just make sure you get everything in writing and don't forget to negotiate how this will show up on your credit reports as well. Remember, a "paid" collection is essentially just as damaging to your credit score as an "unpaid" collection. Have you responded to the summons already?
Will be responding sometime next week. Just getting all my ducks in a row as well as trying to decide If I should go it alone or get a lawyer. I feel good about the outcome either way.
