My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: California
I found out my spouse has $30K in credit card debt when we applied for a new car loan. Our accounts are completely separate with exception to the recent approved joint car loan thanks to my credit. My spouse has never missed a payment, but only the minimum amount has been paid.
I can pay off the debt, but that is quite a penny. What is the best option in my situation?
1. Pay off the debt ASAP. However, I would like to avoid paying this much money with as least impact as possible.
2. Have my spouse contact the creditors to settle for a lump sum payment to reduce the overall pay out. Impact would be my spouse's credit would be further impacted, but I think risk is low after I pay off our car loan. Would my credit be impacted if my spouse negotiated a lump sum settlement and what are the impacts to us individually and jointly?
Would like pros and cons of each option considering we now have a joint car loan. I want to stop the debt accumulation from the interest rates. I do not want creditors to come after my assets and we do not own a home. Thanks.

