Are there limitations in interest that can acrue on an account?

[cimyss]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Maryland
About 8 years ago my husband applied for and received 2 credit cards. One had approx a 4000 limit on it. Within a year it had become maxed and due to money problems we became unable to pay the payments, over-limit fees, rising interest rates, and asked to make payment arrangements, which they refused. We tried for a while but could never get it back below the surface to even begin touching the principle. It was then turned over to a collections agency, when it was at or below 5000.
He received a notice from a collections agency in the mail today from this account and it is now at 8916.07. Is this possible? Can they almost double the balance in interest charges after they have sold the account?

We only ever had 2 cards and I am worried this will happen to the other as well. Plus I am hearing about people loosing their property as a result.

My daughter became disabled and I had to quit work to care for her full time we have to go for many medical treatments and doctors visits 150 miles from our home for her.
We would like to get out of debit and have considered bankruptcy, Since 8 years later nothing has changed in our circumstances. Unfortunately where we live is not close to a federal court.

Any advise or resources you could point us towards would be much welcomed and appreciated. Thank you