It doesn't matter when it's removed, they can still sue you. There are people who are sued for debts 20 years old.
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I hope you do fight this. The debt collector paid pennies on the dollar for this debt,and tacked on their own fees. They are trying to get to your girlfriend before the SOL runs out. The last thing they want to do is to go to court. Fighting this will cost them money. If you do decide to settle, be very careful. Any payment she makes, will reset the clock on the statue of limitation. You will find examples of debt settlement letters online. It has to be worded carefully. Do it wrong, debt collector will take your money and resell the debt. Another debt collector will come after you for the same debt.

