Don't let it go to court unanswered. Do you acknowledge the debt? What are your intentions? Do you intend to pay it? If so, I would try to contact the attorney and work it out before it goes to court. If you let it go to court unanswered, the judge could grant a summary judgement against you and it will probably cost you a lot more (court cost, atty fees....).
Another option (if you intend to dispute the debt) is to ask for a continuance stating you are out of the country.