I'm Being Sued by Bank of America for Credit Card Debt

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Being sued by Bank of America for credit card debt can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Bank of America is one of the largest credit card issuers in the US and they take debt collection seriously.

You have 30 days to respond to the lawsuit after receiving the summons. This is a crucial timeline to keep in mind as it can impact your ability to negotiate a settlement.

It's essential to review the lawsuit carefully to understand the specific debt amount and account information being claimed. The lawsuit will include details such as the account number, balance, and any fees associated with the debt.

If you're unable to pay the debt, you may be able to negotiate a settlement with Bank of America. This can involve paying a lump sum or setting up a payment plan.

Understanding Lawsuits

You've been served with a lawsuit from Bank of America, and you're not sure what to do. Approximately 90% of customers with credit card debt fail to respond to a lawsuit, which can result in a default judgment against them. This can be a serious mistake.

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To respond to the lawsuit, you need to file an Answer, which is typically due within 14 days, depending on the state you live in. The Answer requires you to admit or deny each allegation in the Complaint, and you may also have the opportunity to assert affirmative defenses, such as the credit card was not in your name or the debt has already been paid.

Bank of America often works with multiple debt collection law firms, including Couch Lambert, LLC, Javitch Block LLC, and Scott & Associates, P.C., to handle its Texas credit card lawsuits. These law firms may file lawsuits in various counties across the state, including District Courts and Justice of the Peace Courts.

Here are some key points to keep in mind when responding to a Bank of America lawsuit:

  • You need to address every allegation in the Complaint and admit or deny each one.
  • You may have the opportunity to assert affirmative defenses, such as the credit card was not in your name or the debt has already been paid.
  • You need to mail the Answer to the court on time, as the deadline is different in each state.

When Would a Bank Sue You?

If you have defaulted on your credit card, Bank of America may resort to filing a legal action against you to recover the debt.

From below of bright blue signboard saying personal banking on modern building of town
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Bank of America tends to keep its own accounts and will attempt to obtain money owed by its customers by filing collection lawsuits. Approximately 90% of customers with credit card debt fail to respond to a lawsuit filed against them.

Filing an Answer to a Summons and Complaint from Bank of America is crucial to preserve your rights in the lawsuit. By filing an Answer, you let Bank of America know that you want to engage in a conversation about the alleged debt.

If you're a Texas resident with a defaulted credit card, Bank of America may work with one of several debt collection law firms to file a lawsuit against you. Some of these law firms include Couch Lambert, LLC, Javitch Block LLC, and Scott & Associates, P.C.

These law firms often file lawsuits in District Courts or Justice of the Peace Courts, which are small claims courts.

Here's an interesting read: Remove Debt Collections from Credit Report

What If I Have a Default Judgment?

Vector illustration of smartphone with credit card picture and bills inscription placed near debtor document against purple background
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If you've already received a default judgment, don't panic. You may still have options to challenge or settle the judgment.

You can file a motion to vacate the judgment, which could potentially reverse the default judgment.

A default judgment can be a setback, but it's not the end of the road. You can start a new trial to reargue your case.

Working with an experienced debt defense lawyer can help you determine the best course of action. They can advise whether negotiation is a better strategy than challenging the lawsuit.

You may be able to negotiate a settlement with the creditor, which could provide a more favorable outcome than the default judgment.

A debt resolution attorney can also help you explore alternative debt resolution options, such as bankruptcy.

Related reading: Debt Resolution Plan

Credit Card Process

Credit card debt lawsuits can be overwhelming, but understanding the process can help you navigate the situation. Bank of America may work with multiple debt collection law firms, such as Couch Lambert, LLC, Javitch Block LLC, and Scott & Associates, P.C., to handle its Texas credit card lawsuits.

From below classic styled historic building of United States National Bank with wooden doors and vintage lanterns located in Portland
Credit: pexels.com, From below classic styled historic building of United States National Bank with wooden doors and vintage lanterns located in Portland

If you're facing a lawsuit, you'll likely receive official court papers called a Summons and Complaint. You must decide whether to respond or forfeit your defense. If you choose to defend yourself, you'll need to file forms with the court, pay court fees, and inform the other side that you're participating in the lawsuit.

The process for credit card debt lawsuits typically involves several phases, including:

  • Pre-lawsuit phase: The creditor may send collection notices and make telephone calls, but hasn't started a court case. You may be able to resolve the debt or negotiate and avoid a lawsuit.
  • Lawsuit phase: If the creditor files a suit against you, you must decide whether to respond or forfeit your defense.
  • Discovery phase: You'll prepare to defend yourself in court by gathering evidence using a legal process called discovery to get information from the other side.
  • Trial phase: If the case isn't settled, you'll go to trial. The court will make a decision on the case ending in a judgment in favor of one side or the other.

If you don't win the case, the other side will receive a judgment, and will try to collect what you owe. You can try to resolve the debt or negotiate with the creditor to avoid a lawsuit.

Responding to a Lawsuit

You have as little as 14 days to file your Answer, depending on the state you live in. This is a crucial deadline, so make sure to check the paperwork you received from the court for the exact timeframe.

To respond to a lawsuit, you need to file a written response, also known as an Original Answer, with the court handling your case. You must also provide a copy to Bank of America's lawyers.

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You must address every allegation in the Complaint, admitting or denying each numbered paragraph. You also have the opportunity to assert affirmative defenses, such as the credit card was not in your name or you have already paid the debt.

Here are three main things to think about when filing an Answer:

How to Respond to a Lawsuit

Responding to a lawsuit can be overwhelming, but it's essential to take action to protect yourself. You have the right to defend yourself, and ignoring the lawsuit can lead to a default judgment, which can result in serious consequences, such as garnishing your bank accounts, putting a lien on your property, or seizing your property.

The key to responding to a lawsuit is to file a written response, also known as an Original Answer, within the required period, which varies from 14 to 28 days, depending on the Court. You must provide a copy of your response to the plaintiff's lawyers.

A man using a laptop and holding a credit card indoors, wearing a headset for online shopping.
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To file an effective response, you need to address each allegation in the complaint, admitting or denying each one. You should also assert affirmative defenses, which are reasons why you may not owe the debt. Examples of affirmative defenses include an expired statute of limitations, not being the cardholder or cosigner, or having already paid or discharged the debt.

Mistakes in your response can hurt your defense, so it's recommended to get assistance from an attorney to ensure your response is drafted correctly.

Here are the three main things to consider when filing an Answer:

  • Be sure to address every allegation, admitting or denying each one.
  • Assert affirmative defenses, such as expired statute of limitations, not being the cardholder or cosigner, or having already paid or discharged the debt.
  • Mail the Answer to the court on time, as the deadline varies by state.

You don't necessarily need a lawyer to respond to a lawsuit, but understanding the format and due date for your response is crucial. The response to a lawsuit is called an "Answer", and you typically have as little as 14 days to file it, depending on the state you live in.

Here is a list of the states and their deadlines for filing an Answer:

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and you should check your state's deadline here.

Your Deadline

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You have a very short window to respond to a lawsuit filed by Bank of America. Approximately 90% of customers with credit card debt fail to respond to a lawsuit, and as a result, Bank of America can easily obtain a judgment against them.

Don't fall into that trap - you need to file an Answer to preserve your rights in the lawsuit. By doing so, you'll let Bank of America know that you want to engage in a conversation about the alleged debt.

Bank of America will have to prove the allegations in their lawsuit, and if they can't, the case just might be dismissed.

A different take: M&t Secured Credit Card

Settling with Collectors

You've received a notice from Bank of America saying they're suing you for a credit card debt. Don't panic, you have options. You can negotiate debt settlement at any stage of the collections process, making it easy to settle the debt.

Bank of America is required to verify the debt within 5 days of initial contact. If you suspect the debt is fraudulent or past the statute of limitations, send a Debt Validation Letter within 30 days of initial contact.

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If the debt is valid, you can try to remove the negative mark on your credit report by disputing the inaccurate information with TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian credit reporting agencies. You'll need to provide supporting documentation for your claim.

If the debt collector fails to validate the debt, you can request a goodwill deletion by sending a letter to Bank of America explaining the circumstances that led to the negative mark on your credit report. Some institutions may agree to remove the mark if you've offered a compelling reason for how the financial misstep occurred.

To negotiate a settlement, you can contact Bank of America and make a pay-for-delete offer. This means you offer to pay all or a portion of the debt in exchange for having them remove the negative information from your credit report. If they agree, make sure you get it in writing before moving forward with paying the debt.

Bank of America is known to settle for 25%-80% of the original debt, depending on the circumstances. Filing a written Answer in court can help you challenge the claims made against you and negotiate a settlement.

Here's an interesting read: Citi Bank Credit Card Offer

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Here are some steps to consider when negotiating a debt settlement with Bank of America:

  • File a written Answer in court to challenge the claims made against you
  • Send a debt settlement offer using SoloSettle to initiate the negotiation process
  • Make sure to get a Settlement Agreement in writing before paying the agreed amount
  • Keep track of your court case and respond to any discovery requests that arise

Negotiating a debt settlement can be a complex process, but it's worth exploring if you believe you owe the debt.

Protecting Your Credit

Bank of America has 5 days to verify the debt after initial contact, so send a Debt Validation Letter within 30 days to ensure they follow the rules.

You can dispute inaccurate information on your credit report with TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian credit reporting agencies. Provide any supporting documentation for your claim.

Request a goodwill deletion if you've already paid the debt, explaining the circumstances that led to the negative mark on your credit report. This is a request, not a guarantee.

If the debt is valid, you can contact Bank of America and make a pay-for-delete offer, where you pay all or a portion of the debt in exchange for having them remove the negative information from your credit report.

Keep in mind that it may take some time for the updates to reflect on your credit reports after disputing or negotiating a settlement. Keep watching your credit report to ensure the negative information is removed.

Seeking Professional Help

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You have legal options in a debt collection lawsuit, and it's essential to explore them. Our North Texas debt defense attorneys can review your case and help you understand your potential options.

You can reach out to a debt defense attorney from our firm to discuss your legal options. Call us today or fill out our online contact form to request a consultation.

Our debt defense lawyers have extensive experience and success in assisting clients with debt defense lawsuits. We work toward helping our clients reach favorable debt resolutions.

You can schedule a consultation with a North Texas debt resolution attorney from our firm to learn more about how we can help you. Contact us online or call our office to request a confidential consultation about your case.

Our attorneys can review Bank of America's claims against you and determine the validity of its lawsuit. We can answer your legal questions and help you understand your potential options to deal with the Bank of America credit card lawsuit.

Understanding Collections

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Bank of America has a list of law firms it hires to collect debt, including Andreu, Palma, Lavin & Solis, PLLC, and Levy & Associates. These firms may contact you to collect on a debt.

You should be cautious if contacted by a debt collection agency about a BofA debt, as it's possible the debt has been sold to them. Always ask for written communication and consider sending a Debt Validation Letter to ensure the debt is valid.

Some of the law firms Bank of America hires for debt collection include:

  • Andreu, Palma, Lavin & Solis, PLLC
  • Cooling & Winter
  • Frederic I. Weinberg & Associates, P.C.
  • Glasser and Glasser
  • Gurstel Law Firm
  • Hayt, Hayt & Landau, PL
  • Hood & Stacy
  • Levy & Associates
  • Lloyd & McDaniel
  • Mullooly Jeffrey Rooney Flynn
  • Nelson & Kennard
  • Rubin & Rothman
  • Scott & Associates
  • Shermeta Law Group
  • Suttell & Hammer
  • Weber & Olcese PLC

Who Uses Collections?

Bank of America hires debt collection law firms to help sue its customers for debt delinquency. These firms can include Andreu, Palma, Lavin & Solis, PLLC, and many others.

Some examples of debt collection law firms hired by Bank of America are:

  • Andreu, Palma, Lavin & Solis, PLLC
  • Cooling & Winter
  • Frederic I. Weinberg & Associates, P.C.
  • Glasser and Glasser
  • Gurstel Law Firm
  • Hayt, Hayt & Landau, PL
  • Hood & Stacy
  • Levy & Associates
  • Lloyd & McDaniel
  • Mullooly Jeffrey Rooney Flynn
  • Nelson & Kennard
  • Rubin & Rothman
  • Scott & Associates
  • Shermeta Law Group
  • Suttell & Hammer
  • Weber & Olcese PLC

Bank of America may also sell debts to collections agencies, which can contact customers about the debt.

Federal Collection Laws

Credit: youtube.com, Fair Debt Collection Practices Act

Federal collection laws are in place to protect you from unfair debt collection practices. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires debt collectors to report accurate information to the credit bureaus.

The FCRA also gives you the right to dispute errors on your credit report. You can submit a dispute to TransUnion, Equifax, or Experian, and they will investigate and correct any errors.

You have the right to know who is collecting your debt and what information they have about you. The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) prohibits debt collectors from engaging in abusive or deceptive practices.

Some things debt collectors cannot do include contacting you at work, contacting third parties about your debt, and making false statements about your debt. If you're experiencing harassment from a debt collector, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Here are some key federal collection laws to know:

  • 15 USC 1692 Explained
  • FDCPA Violations List
  • How to File an FDCPA Complaint Against Your Debt Collector
  • What Debt Collectors Cannot Do — FDCPA Explained

Guides on Arbitration

If you're being sued by Bank of America for credit card debt, you might be stressed out about the thought of going to court. Many Americans in your shoes utilize a Motion to Compel Arbitration to push their case out of court and into arbitration.

Credit: youtube.com, Winning Your Credit Card Lawsuit with Private Arbitration - FAQ

Arbitration is a process where a neutral third party makes a binding decision on your case, rather than a judge or jury. To use arbitration, you'll need to find an arbitration clause in your credit agreement. This clause might be buried in the fine print, but it's worth searching for.

Here are some resources to help you navigate the arbitration process:

  • How Arbitration Works
  • How to Find an Arbitration Clause in Your Credit Agreement
  • How to Make a Motion to Compel Arbitration
  • How to Make a Motion to Compel Arbitration in Florida
  • How to Make a Motion to Compel Arbitration Without an Attorney
  • How Credit Card Arbitration Works
  • Motion to Compel Arbitration in California
  • Sample Motion to Compel Arbitration

Bank of America is known to settle for 25%-80% of the original debt, depending on the circumstances. To reach a settlement, you'll need to file your written Answer in court and then reach out to Bank of America to negotiate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a credit card company sues you and you can't pay?

If a credit card company sues you and you can't pay, the court may grant a judgment allowing wage garnishment or property liens to recover the debt. This can have serious financial consequences, so it's essential to understand your options and take action to address the debt

How do I settle a credit card lawsuit?

To settle a credit card lawsuit, consider hiring a debt settlement attorney or using a debt relief service to negotiate a payment plan or settlement with the card issuer. Alternatively, you may want to explore other options such as bankruptcy or direct negotiation with the card issuer.

Rosalie O'Reilly

Writer

Rosalie O'Reilly is a skilled writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. She has honed her expertise in a range of article categories, including Financial Performance Metrics, where she has established herself as a knowledgeable and reliable source. Rosalie's writing style is characterized by clarity, precision, and a deep understanding of complex topics.

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