I was served today by an officer of the Justice Court of the State of Arizona, Maricopa County. I am being summoned and required to serve the Plaintiff's attorney an answer to the complaint (a bank debt) within 20 days. If I don't appear or defend within that time, judgment by default will no doubt be demanded.
The Plaintiff's attorney is cautioning me that in order to appear and defend, I must file an "Answer or other proper response in writing with the Clerk of this Court, accompanied by the necesary filing fees, within the time required..." etc, etc. Problem is, after navigating the Maricopa County Justice Court website, I'm even more confused than ever. I can't afford an attorney, but I would like to appear in court in order to explain the circumstances regarding why I've been unable to repay the debt. I would even consider seeking arbitration, but I have no idea how to fill out the required forms necessary to take the next step.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
The Plaintiff's attorney is cautioning me that in order to appear and defend, I must file an "Answer or other proper response in writing with the Clerk of this Court, accompanied by the necesary filing fees, within the time required..." etc, etc. Problem is, after navigating the Maricopa County Justice Court website, I'm even more confused than ever. I can't afford an attorney, but I would like to appear in court in order to explain the circumstances regarding why I've been unable to repay the debt. I would even consider seeking arbitration, but I have no idea how to fill out the required forms necessary to take the next step.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.