Home > Research Legal Advice > Debt Collection > How do I use Delaware Statute of Limitations as a defense in California ...
Asked 3 months ago - Sacramento, CA
FlagI recently received a summons from Discover card . I live in California . The credit card agreement contains a Delaware choice - of - law clause to be applied " without regard to conflict - of - law principles . " Under Delaware law , the statute of limitations for breach of contract is three years . It has been 3 years and 3 months since my last payment . How would I use this as a affirmative defense in California . Also , in July of 2010 I had a verbal agreement with them to charge no interest or fees until I was in a financial position to make a payment . My statements show no interest or fees for a number of months thereafter . I never was able to make a payment since then . Does California's 2 year Statute of Limitations on verbal agreements apply here ? Thanks so much for your gel
The answer to complaint or general denial form must include the specific statute(s) of limitation that you believe apply to the underlying claims in the complaint. Cite in the answer to complaint, as an affirmative defense: Title 10, Delaware Code, Section 8106.
What's your point regarding the two year oral limitations period? Are you suggesting that they violated their terms and that you wish to counter sue (known as a cross complaint) them?
Generally speaking, preparing a decent response to the lawsuit does not mean that you have the legal skills to present this defense to the court at trial or if the Plaintiff files a motion for summary judgment. My blog posting, linked below, explains concerns with people who try to play lawyer, by DIY lawsuit defense: it often results in a money judgment against them. At least consult with an attorney who primarily handles debt collection lawsuits to see if it makes sense for you to hire such attorney. Check their ratings on Avvo.
Robert Stempler (please see DISCLAIMER below)
www.StopCollectionLawsuits.com
www.facebook.com/SoCalConsumerLawyer
Twitter: @RStempler
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