What to Know if Facing a PNC Bank Lawsuit for Debt Collection in Texas

We understand that facing a PNC Bank lawsuit for debt collection in Texas can be an intimidating and stressful experience. However, you may have legal options to defend yourself. Below, our North Texas debt collection defense lawyers provide information about PNC Bank, its practices, and steps to take if being sued for debt collection.  

What Is PNC Bank, N.A.? 

PNC Bank, N.A. is a national banking association and one of the largest financial institutions in the United States. With its headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, PNC Bank has a significant presence in many states, including Texas. 

It offers various personal and commercial financial services. Its personal financial services include banking and borrowing, like credit cards and loan options. 

Does PNC Bank Sue for Credit Card Debt?

Yes, PNC Bank may sue individuals for unpaid credit card debt. Like other creditors, PNC Bank may take legal action against account holders who have defaulted on their credit card payments. However, a creditor will usually try other collection tactics before resorting to a lawsuit to recover outstanding debt.

Does PNC Bank Sue for Unpaid Loans?

In addition to credit card debt, PNC Bank may also sue individuals who have defaulted on loans, such as personal loans, auto loans, or home equity loans. Generally, a loan goes into default after the borrower fails to repay the loan per the contract agreement. 

Why Is PNC Bank Suing Me?

Whether an individual has a credit card or loan through PNC Bank, a lawsuit for debt collection usually alleges breach of contract. If PNC Bank is suing you, it claims you hold an account with it, breached your contract, and owe it money. 

If PNC Bank sues you, you will likely hear from its attorneys. The company hires law firms that primarily handle debt collection. In Texas, it often works with the law firm Zwicker & Associates, P.C.

Should I Answer a Debt Collection Lawsuit?

No matter your situation, responding is essential if you have been served with a debt collection lawsuit from PNC Bank. You should answer the lawsuit even if you do not recognize or owe the debt.

Ignoring the lawsuit does not make it go away. Instead, it may lead to a default judgment against you. This means the court may rule in favor of PNC Bank without considering any of your potential defenses. Unfortunately, a default judgment can have severe consequences. For example, it may lead to bank garnishment, liens on your property, and property seizure.

You must act quickly to protect yourself from a default judgment. In most cases, you have 20 days to respond to the lawsuit. However, depending on the court handling your case, you may have as little as 14 days to respond.

How Do I Respond to a Credit Card Lawsuit in Texas?

When responding to a credit card lawsuit in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Review the lawsuit documents. The summons and complaint documents will provide important information about the case. It should include the basis for the lawsuit, the amount of debt claimed, and the response deadline.
2. Prepare an answer. An answer is a legal document in which you respond to the allegations made by PNC Bank. In your response, you should address every claim made in the lawsuit. You may also raise defenses, such as an expired statute of limitations or disputing the amount claimed.
3. File your answer. File your answer with the district clerk’s office in the county where PNC Bank filed the lawsuit. You can also file it online.
4. Serve copies to PNC Bank. After filing your answer with the court, you must serve a copy to PNC Bank’s attorneys. This step ensures that the plaintiff knows your response to the lawsuit and any defenses you have raised.

Our North Texas debt collection defense attorneys have a complete guide about how to respond to a debt collection lawsuit. However, we recommend consulting with an experienced attorney before filing your answer with the court. 

An attorney can review your situation and help you ensure your answer is without mistakes and protects your best interests. Additionally, a lawyer can handle the filing process on your behalf, ensuring you meet deadlines and adhere to proper legal procedures.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Help Me With a PNC Bank Lawsuit?

Having a lawyer represent you in a PNC Bank lawsuit is not mandatory. However, an attorney can offer many benefits, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the legal process. 

Here are a few reasons why you should consider working with a debt collection defense attorney from our firm:

• Reduced stress. We often defend individuals in cases involving creditors and debt collectors. Navigating a debt collection lawsuit alone can be daunting, particularly against a massive company like PNC Bank and its attorneys. Working with us can provide comfort and confidence that you have a proficient attorney fighting for your best interests.
• Proficiency in debt collection defense. Our attorneys focus a large part of our practice on assisting individuals with debt collection defense. Our extensive experience gives us comprehensive knowledge of the laws and procedures related to debt collection lawsuits. We can protect your legal rights, handle the legal process on your behalf, and offer guidance along the way.
• Tailored defense strategies. We can evaluate the details of your situation, assess the strengths and weaknesses of PNC Bank’s claims, and devise a tailored defense strategy for you. Depending on your situation, we may explore opportunities for a settlement or prepare for trial if necessary. We may also recommend exploring bankruptcy as an option to discharge debts.

Schedule a Consultation With Warren & Migliaccio Today

Are you facing a PNC Bank lawsuit for debt collection in Texas? We encourage you to contact our North Texas debt collection defense attorneys. We have offices in Dallas and Richardson but help individuals throughout the state. 

During a consultation, we can answer your legal questions and help you determine the next steps for moving forward. Please fill out our online contact form or call one of our offices to schedule your case review.