My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: Texas
I have a debt that was defaulted by Chase bank and has been picked up by a collection agency with an in house lawyer division. They have since served me papers for a lawsuit filed with a local justice of the peace. My first action was to contact them to try and work out an agreement but they wanted 11,000 to settle with 20% interest. The original debt was 5000. I decided to respond to the judge and request trial by judge. The court date was set and i then contacted the company to try and settle again. They were more willing to come down from 11,000 but would not take a payment plan for 5000. Yesterday i received a copy of a letter asking for a continuance from the collection company on the grounds that they believe an agreement is in place and they are awaiting paper work from me. I have no agreement and no paperwork. The trial is set for next week. The judge should receive the continuance letter today. I have other debts that will need to be resolved as well. Including another that was purchased by this same company for roughly the same amount. They are based in austin while i am in the dallas area. I feel like they are playing hardball to try and get the most out of me possible without going to court. Do they intend to even go to court? What if the judge dismisses their request and they don't show up? Should I contact them again or should I lay out my debt for the judge and hope for the best? Do I really need a lawyer? Any help is appreciated. thank you.

