My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: Colorado

I'm returning back to the States after spending 6 years abroad. Before I left the States, I was a resident of Colorado and I left behind a few unpaid bills. I just pulled my credit report and the amounts that used to be in the hundreds are now in the thousands...
As I understand it, the SOL tolled when I left the States, so I'm assuming I'll be getting summons within a few months after I return. What is the best way for me to go about this? I won't be bringing in any substantial amount of money with me and it will take me a while to resettle, so I won't be able to pay off the bills. Does it make sense for me to file bankrupcy as soon as I get back? Or should I tell collection agencies that the SOL has expired in the hope that they won't try to check whether I was a resident (and then try to settle on an individual basis with those who don't buy that defence)?