My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: FL
Due to this economy and health factors I have defaulted a number of Credit Card Debts. I have now received my first (of I'm sure many) "Summons" to appear. This one is a pretrial conference.
I understand that if I do not go, I can lose by default (summary judgement). If I do go - I will have to state the truth which is yes I owe the money and no I cannot pay. No ability to set up a schedule as no idea if/when I may earn money again.
Two Questions: One: If I go, I will lose, If I don't go, I will lose. Why do I spend the time and gas money, parking, etc to go to the courthouse to lose either way? Can I or will be found in contempt of court and be looking at a criminal record if I just don't go? The question really is - Do I bother?
Second Question: All my credit card debt is in My personal name. Any assets that I may or may not own is in the joint name of me and my wife? Can this type of judgement attach to a joint asset?
In retrospect, I wish I defaulted sooner instead of using up the last of the savings to pay as long as possible. If I had any cash - several of the companies have offered to settle for about 30%.

