Need help dealing with an OC

[Anonymous]

I have been receiving bills from a lawyer that did some work for me a while back. After some hardship, and not being able to pay, I want to egt this taken care of. Looking over my invoices, I realized that they have been charging about 19% interest. At that rate, I'd be better off putting it on a credit card to pay off.

I want to call them and negotiate for a slightly lower amount (currently the balance is about 4500) I am hoping to be able to offer a PFD type option and pay less than the full balance. It has not been turned over to a CA, so there is no entry on my CR and I want to keep it that way.

Any advice on how I can bring this to them? It is my debt, but the balance has nearly double due to my not being able to pay for it. 

[llecs]

I don't think it would ever post to your CR unless sued. Why hire a CA when they can do it themselves?

Check with your state. Some have restrictions on how much interest you can charge (assuming you are looking to lower the interest).

If you have the $$$ to PIF, I would simply call them and mention you'd like to negotiate a reduced amount, that you'd like to pay it, and that you don't want it reporting. If they agree to a figure, forward your request in writing, ask them to respond in writing and offer the payment after you get it in writing. Following payment, ask them for a letter acknowledging the payment.

You should be good to go.

[Anonymous]

I second every word BUT "and that you don't want it reporting" - I would avoid bring this up not to give them any ideas or leverage about what YOUR motive are or to make it more onerous for you.

You can always bring it up later if necessary, but remember that EVERY information you give is going to be used AGAINST you. Let them believe that your only motive is to deal with an obligation in a resonable way.

[Anonymous]

Ultimately I just want to get is resolved since I'm afraid I've been pressing my luck too hard here. I have been working diligently on getting all of my other baddies dealt with. The last thing I want is to get sued here. I'm across the country now, and would not be able to go and defend myself. And to be honest, there's not much to defend..... It is my debt. I don't mind paying for it and I now have the money to PIF, but obviously I think that 19% interest is a bit ridiculous here.

[Anonymous]

If you are in a position to pay X amount.......I would send them a letter and state that you regret not being able to pay sooner, but are now in a position to pay. You were looking over your past invoices to get an amount and noticed the interest amount that has been added. With the added interest, you can not pay the full amount. You would like to negotiate with them for a lower amount to pay and have this considered paid in full. You are willing to immediately send payment of $XXXX upon receiving an agreement from them that with a payment of $XXXX this account will be considered paid in full, no balance due.

They'll take it or leave it.