My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: Missouri

We turned in our car and it had little damage. The attendant only had us sign off on the mileage and not the condition of the car. Then we received a bill for $7,000 for damages that were not on our car when we dropped it off. We disputed these charges with the lender but they said we signed a contract (lease) and that the charges were valid. We refused to pay anything and it went to collections. After sending cease and desist letters, the debt moved on to a collection attorney and now we have been served. Their evidence is our signed lease and a copy of the statement which we dispute.

What is the best way to go about disputing these outrageous charges especially since the damages were not on the car and we did not sign off on the condition of the car when we turned it in? We think the attendant may have wrecked the car (that's how bad it seems) - any advice?

Its really hard to find info for Missouri - that's how I found this site. Also, i just got back to work after a nine month layoff - therefore we are not able to settle even if we wanted to - we don't have any extra money and this debt is low on our priority list - how concerned should I be? How can I fight bogus charges?

Thanks so much for your help.