What to do about a lawsuit?

Lose and pay.

What are you looking for here?

If you owe it, you'll lose anyway, try and settle before it gets to trial.

Answer the summons in court and take anything to prove bill was paid or settled and take your best shot. Go to the library first and read up on civil court procedures. Many people have successfully defended themselves and the civil courts aren't as strict as the criminal courts. If you owe the bill and just can't pay it, the court may render a judgement against you. But if you are destitute there is nothing a debtor can do except just hold a judgement. They can't put you in jail or take your car or things you need to live or work. Do not put any money in a bank account because they can get it by garnishment if you do! The court may set up some kind of reasonable payment schedule for you also. If you agree, you will have to stick to it or be held in contempt. Be very wary of what you agree to! I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice, mere life experiences when I was in a tight spot years ago.

You don't choices at this point. You can file for bankruptcy and compound the problem or you can call their lawyer, tell them your story and see what happens. Most likely you're going to have a judgment against you that will continue to grow and you'll have to pay some day.

well you either pay the bill then or it goes to collections and on your credit report those are pretty much the choices

what state