My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: IL

I have been summoned with regards to a credit card debt. The plaintiff is the credit card holder as represented by their attorney. I do owe this money and would like to find out what I can do to resolve this - if at all possible without letting this go to trial (yes, I know I should have done that in the first place, and yes, I do want to pay what I owe).

Per the summons I have to file a written appearance and pay the required fee by the specified date to avoid a default judgement.

Does that mean that I cannot (should not?) contact the attorneys representing the bank? Also, if I can contact them, do I still have to put something in writing and send it to the relevant court?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.