I moved states for school and was kicked out of my house, not communicating with either parent. Apparently, an old credit card I had a few years ago and stopped using racked up a balance and my parents told me today that they received mail about a notice of filing judgement for the balance. Discover is using Zwicker & Associates as their lawyer. I had no clue this was even being pursued in the courts since I live in a different state and am not in contact with my parents.

What are my options?

Should I contact the court and challenge it the default judgement, explain my situation?

Or should I contact Zwicker & Associates and try to negotiate either a payment plan, or a discounted payment in lump sun to clear the balance? What should I get in writing for a settlement? Should I ask for a clearing of the debt on my credit history as well?

Can I remove this from my record without having a civil judgement on there? I do not want to file for bankruptcy.