The school may be. Consult with experienced personal injury attorneys in the state where this occurred.

Yes you can make an offer and try to get a lesser settlement.

Look for attorneys in the state where the debtor lives who collect, not defend against, judgments.

You can get an order removing the attorney.

Speaking to the opposing attorney directly always has risks.

You can sue. You may be able to sue, also, for fraud if they intentionally hid the damage. You may have to sue where the contract was entered...

Check your credit report it may give you an idea of who is the current creditor.

The restitution order acts as a judgement so you collect as a regular judgement. For example wage garnishments, bank levies. In restitution,...

You cannot put a lien on his house until you get a court judgment. You will need to sue him where he lives, where the contract was entered into, or...

No she cannot legally take the vehicle unless and until she goes through the court process.