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I'll try to keep this brief...I'm wondering if anyone can assist? I was contacted by a lawyer in Rhode Island in regards to alleged PRIVATE student loans from 2009 that would have been loaned to me through the school directly. If I owe the money I want to pay it, however I only have 20 days to file my response and I cannot get the school OR their lawyer to show me that I do in fact owe the money (I thought I only took out Federal loans, that's why I'm unsure of the validity of this debt). I have had consultations with two lawyers although I cannot afford to hire a lawyer AND pay the debt if it turns out there is proof of this debt. I want the schools lawyer to show me proof of the debt so I can ask them to settle for a lesser amount TODAY but they are not willing to show me any documentation. I understand a lawyer can file for discovery which will force the other lawyer to produce proof, however I can't afford a lawyer and I don't qualify for free or reduced legal aid. Can anyone tell me how to force them to show me the documentation that they have before going to court?? I just want to settle this matter! I would appreciate ANY input. Thank you!! Please see below for any additional information needed. -The debt is allegedly for $6,000 but they are suing me for $9,7000 for "fees and interest". - When I was served with the suit they attached one document: a signed enrollment agreement which explained what students should expect in terms of fees and tuition. It did NOT mention a loan. - The lawyer states that we spoke in March of 2015 regarding this debt and they were going to send me documentation of this debt. I do not recall such a conversation and I certainly never received any paperwork. I'm fairly certain this would be a violation of the fair collection act.... - Last year I requested a copy of my official transcript which the school provided. They state on their website that transcripts will not be provided to students with outstanding debt.