Short answer
Find your answer deadline and don't miss it. Read the citation to see which court you're in and when you were served, keep every page, and file a written Answer before the deadline. Ignoring the lawsuit almost always leads to a default judgment.
Then gather what you have about the account: statements, letters from collectors, and any payment records. Don't call the plaintiff's lawyer to admit the debt or promise payment before you understand your defenses.
Helpful next
Sources
- Texas Rules of Civil Procedure (Texas Judicial Branch)
- CFPB: What should I do if I'm sued by a debt collector or creditor?
Updated November 2026. General information about Texas law, not legal advice for your case. Laws and court rules change; we review these answers regularly.