Being sued on a credit card debt from 6 years ago

First — DO NOT IGNORE THIS. The single most damaging mistake people make on debt-collection suits is failing to answer and getting a default judgment, which then becomes a wage garnishment. Two things to check: (1) Statute of limitations — credit card debt is 4 years in CA, 6 years in NY, varies elsewhere, measured from last activity. If the suit is past SOL, you have a complete defense, BUT you have to RAISE IT by filing an answer. It's not automatic. (2) Standing — the plaintiff (often a debt-buyer like LVNV or Midland) has to prove they own the debt with admissible documentation. Many can't. Filing a written answer (general denial) and asking for proof of standing is often enough to make the case go away. Self-help legal aid has answer-form clinics in most counties.