How to Get a Debt Lawsuit Dismissed (Reddit Advice)

Here’s a shocking fact: between 70% and 90% of people sued for debt lose automatically. They don't lose because the case against them was strong; they lose because they never responded to the lawsuit. This is called a default judgment, and it gives a debt collector the power to garnish your wages or freeze your bank account. You’re searching for 'how to get a debt lawsuit dismissed reddit' because you're determined not to become part of that statistic. You have a very short window—often just 14 to 30 days—to act. This guide provides the urgent, step-by-step information you need to file your response correctly and build a strong defense.

Key Takeaways

• Act Immediately: Ignoring a lawsuit is an automatic loss. Your most critical first step is filing a formal Answer before the deadline to protect your rights and avoid giving the collector an easy win through a default judgment.
• Challenge Everything: The debt collector has the entire burden of proof. Use your official Answer to question their legal right to sue, demand proof of ownership like the original contract, and dispute the debt amount. Their case often crumbles when they can't produce the necessary paperwork.
• Play by the Book: The legal system runs on procedure, so avoid costly mistakes. Never make a partial payment that could reset an old debt's clock, get all settlement offers in writing, and ensure your court documents are filed correctly to prevent your defense from being dismissed on a technicality.

Sued for Debt? Here’s What Happens Next

Getting served with a lawsuit is stressful, but it’s a problem you can manage. The most important thing to know is that you have rights and options. Ignoring the paperwork is the one mistake you can’t afford to make, as it gives the debt collector an automatic win. Let’s walk through what that legal document means and what your immediate first steps should be to protect yourself.

What's in a Summons and How Long Do You Have to Respond?

That stack of papers you received is likely a Summons and a Complaint. The Complaint is where the debt collector lays out their case against you, stating why they believe you owe them money. The Summons is the official court notice telling you that you’ve been sued and have a limited time to respond. This isn't a suggestion—it's a strict deadline. Depending on your state, you typically have between 14 and 30 days to file a formal Answer with the court. This window is your critical opportunity to challenge the lawsuit.

The Danger of a Default Judgment

If you miss your deadline to respond, the court will likely enter a "default judgment" against you. This means you automatically lose the case without ever getting a chance to defend yourself. A default judgment is a powerful tool for debt collectors. It gives them the legal authority to take more aggressive collection actions, like garnishing your wages, freezing the funds in your bank account, or even placing a lien on your property. An astonishing 70-90% of people sued for debt lose by default simply because they never respond, so filing an Answer is your single most important first step.

Your First Steps to Protect Yourself

Taking action within your deadline is critical. First, read the Complaint carefully to understand who is suing you and for how much. Next, check for obvious defenses. A common one is the statute of limitations, which is the time limit a creditor has to sue you for a debt. If the debt is too old, you may be able to get the case dismissed. You should also formally demand proof that the debt is valid and that the plaintiff has the right to collect it. You can start this process by sending a debt validation letter. Finally, you must prepare and file your official Answer with the court before the deadline.

Your Strongest Defenses to Get a Lawsuit Dismissed

When you’re sued for a debt, it’s easy to feel like the fight is already lost. But that’s rarely the case. You have rights, and the company suing you has a legal mountain to climb to prove its case. The law provides several powerful arguments, called affirmative defenses, that can challenge the lawsuit from the very beginning. Think of these as your first line of defense—if one of them holds up, it could get the entire case thrown out.

Many people successfully defend themselves by questioning the lawsuit's fundamental legitimacy. Was the lawsuit filed correctly? Is the debt too old to even be collected? Does the company suing you actually have the right to do so? Raising these questions in your official court response is your first and most important step. Let’s look at the most common and effective defenses you can use to protect yourself and potentially get the lawsuit dismissed.

Challenge Their Right to Sue You

Before a debt collector can win a judgment against you, they must first prove they have the legal right—or "standing"—to sue you in the first place. This is a bigger hurdle for them than you might think. Debts are frequently bought and sold between different companies, and with each sale, the chain of ownership can get messy. The company suing you must have clear, documented proof that they are the current, rightful owner of your specific debt. If their paperwork is incomplete or they can't produce the original agreement, you can argue they lack standing, which is a strong reason for a judge to dismiss the case.

Argue the Debt Is Too Old

Every state has a law called the statute of limitations, which sets a firm deadline for how long a creditor or collector can use the courts to collect a debt. This time limit varies by state and the type of debt, but it’s typically between three and six years. If the statute of limitations has expired, the debt is considered "time-barred." While a collector can still contact you about it, they can no longer legally sue you. Raising this defense in your official Answer to the lawsuit is critical, as it can provide a complete barrier to their claim and lead to a swift dismissal.

Point Out They Lack Proof

The burden of proof in a debt lawsuit is entirely on the plaintiff—the company suing you. It’s their job to prove to the court that you owe the debt, the amount is accurate, and they have the right to collect it. Often, particularly with debt buyers who purchase old accounts for pennies on the dollar, they simply don't have the necessary documentation. They might be missing the original signed contract or a complete history of payments and fees. By responding to the lawsuit and demanding they produce this evidence, you put the pressure back on them. Many collectors fold when challenged because they know their case is weak.

Use an Arbitration Clause to Your Advantage

Dig out your original credit card or loan agreement and look for an "arbitration clause." This is a common clause that states any disputes must be handled through a private process called arbitration instead of in a public court. If your agreement has one, you can file a Motion to Compel Arbitration. This legal move asks the judge to dismiss the court case and force the debt collector to go to arbitration. Collectors often hate this because arbitration can be expensive and complicated for them. Faced with this, they may decide it’s not worth the cost and drop the lawsuit against you altogether.

Argue You Weren't Served Correctly

The law has very strict rules about how you must be officially notified that you're being sued. This process is called "service of process." Someone has to physically deliver the Summons and Complaint to you or another adult at your home, or follow other specific procedures allowed by your state. If the debt collector failed to follow these rules—for example, by leaving the papers on your doorstep or mailing them incorrectly—you can argue you weren't properly served. A successful claim of improper service can get the current case dismissed, forcing the collector to start the entire process over again and giving you more time to prepare.

How to Scrutinize Their Paperwork

One of the most powerful truths in a debt lawsuit is that the burden of proof is on the company suing you, not the other way around. You don’t have to prove you don’t owe the debt; they have to prove you do. This is where many debt collection cases fall apart. Debts are often bought and sold multiple times, and with each sale, the official paperwork can get messy, lost, or incomplete. By carefully examining their evidence (or lack thereof), you can build a strong defense. It’s not about finding a tiny loophole; it’s about holding the plaintiff accountable to the legal standard required to win a lawsuit.

What Proof Do They Actually Need?

For a debt collector to have the legal right to sue you—a concept known as "standing"—they must prove two key things: that you owe the original debt and that they now legally own it. A simple spreadsheet with your name on it isn't enough. They need a clear paper trail. This includes the original signed contract you had with the creditor, a complete history of payments, and a documented chain of assignment for every single time the debt was sold. If they can’t produce this, their case is on shaky ground from the start.

Spot Common Gaps in Their Evidence

Many debt buyers purchase debts in bulk for pennies on the dollar and receive very little documentation. They might only have a basic computer printout, which is not a legally binding contract. Keep an eye out for documents that look generic or seem to be mass-produced. Some collection agencies have been caught using illegal "robo-signing," where employees sign thousands of affidavits without verifying any of the information. If the evidence they provide feels thin or suspicious, it’s a major red flag that you can challenge in court.

Formally Request Debt Validation

You can’t just assume the debt collector lacks proof; you have to formally challenge them to provide it. This is a critical step you take in your official response to the lawsuit, known as the Answer. In your Answer, you should state that the plaintiff has not proven they own the debt and demand that they produce the necessary documents to validate it. LawLaw also offers a Debt Validation Letter Generator that can help you make this request before a lawsuit is even filed, putting the collector on notice that you intend to protect your rights.

Use the Discovery Process to Gather Facts

After you file your Answer, the lawsuit enters a phase called "discovery." This is the formal legal process where both sides can request information and evidence from each other. You can use discovery to officially demand copies of every document they plan to use against you. You can also ask them specific questions they must answer under oath. This is also your chance to investigate procedural mistakes, like if you were served the lawsuit papers correctly. If the delivery didn't follow your state's specific rules of service, you can file a motion to have the case dismissed on those grounds alone.

How to File Your Response Correctly

Once you have a defense strategy, you need to present it to the court properly. Filing your response isn't just about what you say—it's about following the court's exact procedures. Getting this part right is critical to keeping your case alive and avoiding a default judgment, which is an automatic loss for you. Every document must be written, formatted, and delivered according to specific rules that can feel overwhelming when you’re handling this alone. A small mistake, like missing a deadline or using the wrong form, could get your entire defense thrown out before a judge even sees it. Think of this as the instruction manual for communicating with the court. Following it shows you’re taking the process seriously and preserves your right to fight the lawsuit. Let's break down the key steps to ensure your response is filed correctly and effectively.

Write a Strong and Clear Answer

Your first and most important document is your "Answer." This is your formal response to the lawsuit, where you address each claim the debt collector made against you. A strong Answer typically denies their allegations and demands they provide proof. You can assert that they don't own the debt and must produce the original contract or a complete chain of ownership showing how they acquired it. Failing to file an Answer on time is one of the fastest ways to lose. LawLaw’s platform helps you generate a customized legal document that includes the right affirmative defenses for your specific situation, taking the guesswork out of drafting this crucial response.

Use a Motion to Dismiss

In some cases, you can ask the court to throw out the lawsuit entirely with a "Motion to Dismiss." This is appropriate if the debt collector made a significant procedural error. For example, if they sued you in the wrong court or failed to serve you the papers correctly, you can file a motion. Another powerful strategy is filing a Motion to Compel Arbitration. If your original credit agreement included an arbitration clause, you can use this to force the debt collector out of court and into a private arbitration process, which many collectors will abandon rather than pursue. This can be a complex legal move, but it's often a highly effective way to end the lawsuit.

Meet the Court's Filing Requirements

Courts run on rules, and you have to follow them to the letter. This means using the correct forms, paying the right filing fees, and formatting your documents exactly as required. It is also essential to raise all your defenses in your initial Answer. If you forget to include a defense, like the statute of limitations being expired, you may lose the right to use it later. This is where things can get tricky, as every court has its own local rules. Using a service that understands these court-specific filing protocols ensures your documents meet the requirements and won't be rejected on a technicality.

Serve Your Documents the Right Way

After you file your Answer with the court, you must officially deliver a copy to the plaintiff (the debt collector or their lawyer). This is called "service of process." You can't just drop it in the mail; each state has specific rules for how documents must be served. You must follow these rules and get proof of service to show the court you did it correctly. Just as you should scrutinize how you were served, you must be diligent in how you serve them. This step is non-negotiable and proves to the court that you are following procedure while keeping the other party officially informed.

Know Your Rights as a Consumer

When you're facing a lawsuit, it's easy to feel powerless. But you have significant legal protections designed to shield you from unfair practices. Understanding these rights is the first step toward building a strong defense and taking control of the situation. Federal and state laws give you the tools to challenge debt collectors and ensure they play by the rules. Knowing how to use these tools can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

What Is the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) is your best friend in this fight. This federal law sets clear rules for what debt collectors can and cannot do. For example, they can't call you at unreasonable hours, use abusive language, or misrepresent the amount you owe. The FDCPA gives you the power to formally request that they "validate" the debt, forcing them to prove you actually owe it. You can also send a letter to stop most communication. If a collector violates these rules, you might even have grounds to sue them back, which can be a powerful piece of leverage in your case.

Find Your State's Specific Protections

While the FDCPA provides a baseline of protection, your state laws might offer even more. One of the most important state-specific defenses is the Statute of Limitations (SOL). This is a legal deadline that limits how long a creditor has to sue you for a debt. The clock usually starts from your last payment. If the SOL has expired, they can no longer win a lawsuit against you, even if you owe the money. This time limit varies significantly by state—it could be three, five, or even ten years. You'll need to check your state's specific laws to see if this powerful defense applies to your situation.

Understand Debt Validation Rules

The company suing you has the burden of proof. It’s not enough for them to simply say you owe money; they have to prove they have the legal right to collect it. Debts are frequently bought and sold, and during these transfers, essential paperwork often gets lost. You have the right to challenge their standing and demand they produce a complete record, including the original creditor agreement. This process is called debt validation. If they can't provide a clear chain of ownership and prove the debt is yours, the court may dismiss the case. You can start this process by sending a formal Debt Validation Letter.

Stop Harassment During the Lawsuit

Even if you believe you are "judgment proof"—meaning you don't have income or assets a collector could seize—you must still respond to the lawsuit. Ignoring it leads to an automatic loss, called a default judgment, which can follow you for years and affect you if your financial situation improves. The FDCPA’s rules against harassment don't stop just because a lawsuit has been filed. Collectors cannot continue to use unfair or deceptive tactics to pressure you. Document every interaction you have with them. If you feel you are being harassed, you should report the behavior and include it as part of your legal defense.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid When Defending Yourself

When you're sued for a debt, what you don't do is just as important as what you do. The legal system has specific rules, and debt collectors often count on you not knowing them. A simple misstep can undermine your entire defense, even if you have a strong case. Falling into one of these common traps can lead to a default judgment or accidentally validate a debt that was otherwise uncollectible. Steering clear of these mistakes is your first line of defense and keeps you in control of the situation. Let's walk through the biggest pitfalls people face and how you can sidestep them.

Don't Miss Your Deadline to Respond

This is the single most critical mistake you can make. When you receive a summons and complaint, it comes with a strict deadline, usually between 14 and 30 days, depending on your state. Ignoring it is not an option. As one Reddit user put it, "The most important thing is NOT to ignore the summons. If you do nothing, you will automatically lose the case." This is called a default judgment, and it gives the debt collector the legal power to garnish your wages or seize funds from your bank account. The clock starts ticking the moment you are served, so your top priority is to figure out your deadline and prepare your official response, known as an Answer.

Avoid the Partial Payment Trap

A debt collector might call and offer what sounds like a simple solution: a small "good faith" payment to pause the lawsuit. Be extremely careful. Making a payment, no matter how small, can have serious legal consequences. For older debts, this action can reset the statute of limitations—the time limit a collector has to sue you. As one person on Reddit warned, making even a small payment could mean an old debt becomes legally collectible again. If the debt was too old to be legally enforceable, that single payment could bring it back to life, giving the collector a fresh opportunity to pursue you in court. It’s a common tactic designed to trap you.

Don't Rely on Verbal Agreements

If a debt collector promises to dismiss the lawsuit or offers a settlement over the phone, that promise is practically worthless without written proof. Always remember this simple rule, echoed by many on Reddit: "Always get any settlement agreement in writing." Collectors may say anything to get you to agree to a payment, but verbal agreements are notoriously difficult to enforce in court. Before you agree to anything, insist on receiving a formal, written settlement offer. This document should clearly state the settlement amount, the payment terms, and that the lawsuit will be dismissed with prejudice (meaning it can't be refiled) once the terms are met. Get everything in writing to protect yourself from future claims.

Prevent Errors in Your Own Paperwork

The debt collector has to follow strict legal procedures, and so do you. Any mistakes in your own court filings can weaken your defense. Start by scrutinizing how you received the lawsuit. As one credit attorney on Reddit advises, "Carefully check how and when you received the lawsuit papers." Was it delivered to the right address and handed to the right person according to your state's rules for service of process? If not, the case could potentially be dismissed. Likewise, the Answer you file with the court must be formatted correctly and address all the claims. An improperly filed document could be rejected, putting you at risk of a default judgment. This is where using a tool to generate your Answer can help ensure everything is done by the book.

What to Do After Your Case Is Dismissed

Getting a debt lawsuit dismissed is a huge victory, and you should absolutely take a moment to celebrate. But before you put the whole experience behind you, there are a few final steps to take to protect your finances and make sure this issue is truly closed. The work isn't over just because the judge dismissed the case.

Think of it as locking the door after you’ve gotten an intruder out of your house. You need to secure your credit report, ensure the debt doesn’t come back to haunt you, and keep solid proof of your win. The type of dismissal matters here. A case dismissed "with prejudice" means the collector cannot sue you for that same debt ever again. A dismissal "without prejudice" means they could potentially refile the case later if they fix the original problem that led to the dismissal. Either way, taking these next steps is critical to safeguarding your future.

Clean Up Your Credit Report

A court dismissal doesn't automatically wipe the negative mark from your credit history. You have to be proactive. The first thing you should do is dispute the inaccurate information with all three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Write a formal dispute letter and include a copy of the court’s dismissal order as undeniable proof. If your case was dismissed with prejudice, the debt collector loses their right to report that debt. Demanding its removal is your right under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and having the court order on your side makes your dispute much stronger and more likely to succeed.

Prevent the Debt from Reappearing

If your case was dismissed "without prejudice," the debt collector might be able to try again. This often happens when a case is dismissed for a procedural reason, like improper service, which the collector can correct and then refile. Your best defense is to hold onto all the evidence and arguments you used the first time. If the case was dismissed "with prejudice," you have a permanent shield. Should another collector buy the debt and try to sue you, your dismissal order is the ultimate proof that they have no legal standing to do so. This document effectively ends the life of that specific legal claim.

Keep the Right Records

Your most valuable asset after a dismissal is the official court order. Contact the court clerk and request a certified copy of the dismissal. Keep this document somewhere safe, and make digital copies as a backup. This piece of paper is your golden ticket. It’s the proof you’ll need for credit bureau disputes and the evidence you’ll use to shut down any future collection attempts on this debt. You should also keep a complete file of everything related to the case, including the original summons, your Answer, and any other motions or correspondence. Having a complete record helps you organize your vital documents and ensures you’re prepared for anything.

Should You Hire Help or Represent Yourself?

Getting sued is overwhelming, and your first big decision is how to fight back. Do you hire an expensive attorney, try to handle it all yourself, or find a middle ground? Each path has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific situation, the amount of the debt, and your comfort level with the legal process. Let's break down the options so you can make a clear-headed decision that protects your rights without breaking the bank.

Know Your Options: Lawyer vs. DIY

Hiring a lawyer is the most hands-off approach. An experienced consumer attorney understands the system, knows the collectors' tactics, and can take the entire burden off your shoulders. In fact, many debt collection firms prefer to deal with individuals directly because lawyers can complicate their strategy and increase their costs. On the other end is the do-it-yourself (DIY) route. Representing yourself, known as appearing pro se, is the most affordable option, but it requires time, research, and careful attention to detail. You'll be responsible for understanding legal procedures and meeting deadlines. The good news is that simply filing an Answer to the lawsuit is a massive step that prevents a default judgment and forces the collector to prove their case.

Compare the Costs

Cost is often the deciding factor. If you're being sued for a smaller amount, say $2,000, paying a lawyer $3,000 to defend you doesn't make financial sense. Traditional attorneys can charge hundreds of dollars per hour, and their fees can quickly surpass the amount of the original debt. Before hiring one, ask for a clear fee structure. Some may offer a flat fee or, in rare cases, take a case without upfront payment if they believe they can win and have the debt collector pay their fees. For most people, the high cost of legal representation is a major barrier, which is why many look for more affordable ways to get help.

When to Call a Lawyer

While a full-service lawyer isn't practical for every case, some situations absolutely warrant a call. If you have a rock-solid defense—for example, you have clear proof the statute of limitations has expired—an attorney might take your case on contingency. They know they have a high chance of winning and getting their fees paid by the other side. You should also consult a lawyer if the lawsuit is for a very large sum of money or if you're facing multiple lawsuits and might need to consider bankruptcy. For everything in between, using a service to help you generate and file your legal documents can give you the support you need at a fraction of the cost.

How to Build Your Defense Strategy

Once you’ve decided to fight the lawsuit, it’s time to build your strategy. This isn’t about pulling a dramatic courtroom maneuver from a TV show; it’s about being methodical, organized, and strategic. A strong defense is built on a foundation of solid evidence, clear communication, and a respect for the court’s rules. The goal is to show the plaintiff that you are prepared to challenge their claims every step of the way.

Many debt collection lawsuits are won by default simply because the person being sued doesn't show up or respond. In fact, research shows that a staggering 70% to 90% of consumers sued for debt don't answer, leading to an automatic loss. By creating a clear plan, you’re already ahead of the game. Think of this process as having four key pillars: gathering your proof, managing your communication, following the rules, and being open to a resolution. Each part is a building block for your defense. It might feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into these manageable steps makes the entire process much clearer. You don't need to be a legal expert to defend your rights, but you do need a plan. This strategy will help you stay focused and ensure you don't miss any critical steps that could make or break your case. Let's break down what each of these steps looks like in practice.

Organize Your Evidence

The burden of proof in a debt lawsuit is on the plaintiff—the company suing you. It’s their job to prove that you owe the debt, that they have the legal right to collect it, and that the amount is accurate. Debts are frequently bought and sold, and essential paperwork often gets lost in the shuffle. Your first move is to demand they show their cards. Gather every document you have related to the debt, and in your official response, assert that the plaintiff doesn't own the debt. A great way to formally do this is by sending a Debt Validation Letter, which forces them to provide proof, like the original signed contract or a full history of the account.

Communicate Effectively

How you communicate during a lawsuit is critical. While it might be tempting to call the collection agency’s lawyers, it’s much smarter to keep everything in writing. Emails create a clear, time-stamped record of every conversation, which can protect you later. Avoid making any verbal agreements or admissions over the phone. If you decide to get help, even from a document preparation service, it signals to the other side that you’re taking this seriously. Debt collectors often count on people being too intimidated to fight back, and showing you have a plan can sometimes make them more willing to negotiate or even drop the case. Stick to the facts and be professional in all your interactions.

Follow Court Procedures

The legal system runs on rules and deadlines, and you have to follow them perfectly. The most important one is the deadline to file your official response, or "Answer," with the court, which is typically between 14 and 30 days. Missing this deadline almost always results in an automatic loss, called a default judgment. When you file your Answer, it’s standard practice to deny their allegations. This doesn't mean you're lying; it's a legal step that forces the plaintiff to prove their case from scratch. Make sure you file the document with the correct court clerk and send a copy to the plaintiff’s attorney, following the specific rules for your jurisdiction.

Prepare for Settlement Talks

While you’re building a strong defense, you can also explore the possibility of a settlement. Reaching out to the law firm that sued you to discuss settling the debt for a lower amount doesn’t mean you’re admitting guilt. It’s simply a practical way to resolve the issue and avoid the stress and uncertainty of a court battle. If you do reach an agreement, get it in writing before you pay anything. If your case is dismissed "with prejudice" (meaning they can't sue you again for the same debt), your work isn't done. The next step is to dispute the negative item with the credit bureaus to clean up your credit report.

Related Articles

• Guide on How to Navigate a Debt Lawsuit
• Respond to Debt Lawsuit
• How to Find Out If You Are Being Sued
• Answer a Debt Collection Lawsuit

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the absolute first thing I should do after being sued? Before you do anything else, find the deadline on the court summons. This is the date by which you must file your official Answer with the court, and it is not flexible. Missing this deadline almost guarantees you will lose automatically through a default judgment. Your entire strategy depends on meeting this first critical timeline, so circle that date on your calendar and make it your top priority.

Is it really possible to get a lawsuit dismissed over a paperwork issue? Yes, it happens more often than you might think. The law requires the company suing you to follow strict procedures and prove their case with specific documentation. If they can't prove they legally own the debt, if the debt is too old according to your state's statute of limitations, or if they failed to serve you the lawsuit papers correctly, you have a strong basis to ask the court for a dismissal. The burden of proof is entirely on them, not you.

If I know I owe the debt, is there any point in responding to the lawsuit? Absolutely. Responding to the lawsuit is about protecting your rights, regardless of whether you believe the debt is yours. Filing an Answer forces the debt collector to legally prove the debt belongs to them and that the amount they're claiming is accurate. It also prevents a default judgment, which gives you time and leverage to negotiate a potential settlement or payment plan. Ignoring the lawsuit takes all of your options off the table.

Is using a service like LawLaw the same as hiring a lawyer? No, and it's an important distinction. A lawyer provides legal advice, represents you in court, and can negotiate on your behalf. LawLaw is a tool that helps you represent yourself. We provide the resources to help you generate the proper legal documents, like your Answer, and understand the court's filing procedures. It’s a powerful and affordable way to defend yourself, but it is not a substitute for legal representation.

What happens to my credit report after the lawsuit is over? A lawsuit dismissal, especially one "with prejudice," is a powerful tool for cleaning up your credit. However, the negative mark won't disappear automatically. You need to send a dispute letter to each of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—and include a copy of the court's dismissal order as proof. This shows the debt is no longer legally collectible and gives you solid grounds to demand its removal from your report.