If you do not answer the summons and complaint served upon you in this matter in a timely fashion, you run the risk of a default and default judgment judgment against you concerning the claims against you. I understand that you want to make your monthly arrangement to pay down the debt but do not want to sign a form of a judgment.The problem is that the law firm may have some statute of limitations issues if the action filed is dismissed and you do not continue making your agreement to make the minthly payments.If you have a default entered against you in your matter, the result will be a default judgment where the plaintiff can try and levy upon your bank accounts for payments.You could consider a stipulation for entry of judgment where the judgment will not be entered against you if you stay current on your monthly payments.Good luck.