If you wish to proceed without a lawyer, which I assume you do, after you file your answer with the court and serve a copy on the plaintiff's law firm, contact that law firm and ask about settlement. Sometimes they'll decline to negotiate or insist upon 100% of the debt (possibly plus attorney fees and court costs), but other times they'll agree to a reduction in amount, a payment schedule, or both. They will probably want to enter a consent judgment any agreement you reach.