Location: Florida
Using a throwaway acc for obvious reasons.
I am getting sued by Midland Credit Management for an $8k debt I owe from Citibank. I got the "notice of service of court" through email on Feb. 4th. I've never been sued before so not sure how to approach this or how to get a lawyer because I can't afford one. I have this debt in the first place because I've been underemployed for 3 years and barely making ends meet. I live alone, not family help so that's not an option.
Last year (2025) they called 2x and I offered to pay them $50 a month both times to pay off the debt as it was all I could manage (barely) and they refused, said it was too little and I told them it was all I could do. I really wanted to start chipping away at it but they wouldn't accept the $50 a month payment.
In the document it states:
SERVICE: Plaintiff must serve their actions promptly by 05-19-2026 and in compliance with Florida Rule ofCivil Procedure 1.070.
Does this mean I have till then to respond?
Regarding trial, is says:
TRIAL: The projected date of trial is 07-13-2027. A firm trial date must be issued by the Court no later than 45 &ys before the projected trial period set forth in this case management order.
Can someone please advise me on what to do and how to handle this?
How do I respond? Or do I just need to email them back acknowledging I received it?
Do I need a lawyer or is this something I can handle myself?
I am back in school and can't afford much more than $100 a month at best so how do I negotiate this?
If my wages get garnished I'll be homeless so what can I do to make sure I don't end up having that happen?
FYI, I don't have any assets. I only have a car I am financing and I rent.
Thanks in advance for the advice on how to handle this.