Since they have sent back the validation, and only if youre able to pay the amount. send back a PFD with a percentage of the amount. The amount depends on how old it is...so I've heard. Maybe try with 30%...and ONLY if you are able to pay it if they agree.
Starting Score: 503
Something that you may not be aware of. They are doing these DVs, disputes, etc. as you! They are not coming out as a credit repair company or a Law Firm, they are representing as you are the one that is doing this.
The CRAs do not have to respond to third parties, and if they think this is coming from a 3rd party they will mark it as frivolous and will inform you of such and that they will no longer investigate the matter.
Credit Repair Agencies also do not communicate with the lenders, so anything they send will also appear to come from you. I'm sure you sent them ID, maybe an electric bill, etc... this is so if they are asked, they will send this as proof it's you, even though it's not.
So yes, just hiring them can poke the bear and you will not have a recourse.
July 2013 score: EQ FICO 819, TU08 778, EX "806 lender pull 07/26/2013
Goal Score: All Scores 760+, Newest goal 800+
Take the myFICO Fitness Challenge
Current scores after adding $81K in CLs and 2 new cars since July 2013
EQ:809 TU 777 EX 790 Now it's just garden time!
June 2017 update: All scores over 820, just pure gardening now.
@eric19k wrote:
You would be 100 times better than Lexington Law
My patients at my regular job might not like it. lol. 
July 2013 score: EQ FICO 819, TU08 778, EX "806 lender pull 07/26/2013
Goal Score: All Scores 760+, Newest goal 800+
Take the myFICO Fitness Challenge
Current scores after adding $81K in CLs and 2 new cars since July 2013
EQ:809 TU 777 EX 790 Now it's just garden time!
June 2017 update: All scores over 820, just pure gardening now.