It might seem like an extreme question, but if you're buried in credit card debt, the fear of legal action can feel very real. Could you actually go to jail? George from Team Solo sits down with bankruptcy and consumer rights attorney, John Skiba, to discuss the smartest ways to settle credit card debt, avoid default judgments, and why timing matters when negotiating with collectors.
John brings 20 years of legal experience in debt settlement, collections defense, and bankruptcy to the table, and he shares why the settlement process often favors the consumer, if you know what to do.
Sued for debt? Visit
https://www.solosuit.com/?utm=podcast to respond and settle today.
In this week’s episode of The Debt Hotline, you’ll learn:- John shares why early communication matters, when to offer a lump sum, and what leverage consumers actually have.
- A breakdown of consolidation, settlement firms, bankruptcy, and new tools like SoloSettle.
- Facing default judgment in Texas: George and John walk Alana through responding to a default judgment, negotiating with a law firm, and using Solo.
- John explains civil vs. criminal law, garnishments, and rare contempt scenarios.
- Steps to take if you're facing a lawsuit for fraudulent or identity theft–related debt.
- Will shares how he used SoloSuit to respond to a lawsuit and asks what to expect next as he works to resolve his debt.
- George wraps with Solo’s 7-step framework for getting out of debt and building long-term wealth.
Real listener questions answered:George and John also field real listener questions, including a college student scared about a $2,500 collections notice, a business owner facing $60,000 in merchant debt, and a woman wondering if her unpaid credit card balance could land her in jail.
Key takeaways from attorney John Skiba:- You don’t have to be served in-person to be sued—watch your mailbox
- A proper Answer to the lawsuit can stop a default judgment in its tracks
- Most collectors will settle because court costs and proof burdens are high
- You can (and should) ask for a better settlement than their first offer
- SoloSettle is one of the safest ways to negotiate if you’re nervous about calling
- “Pay-for-delete” is rare with credit card debt, but not impossible if you negotiate right
The bottom line: Even large debts can be settled safely and quickly if you respond the right way. George wraps the episode by sharing Solo’s 7-step framework for financial recovery:- Respond to your lawsuit.
- Settle your lawsuit.
- Settle your other debts.
- Save a $1,000 stash for emergencies.
- Automate investments into index funds.
- Boost your credit score to 800
- Prosper—become a millionaire.
Connect with John Skiba:To submit a question to The Debt Hotline, you can:
