Can you use a debt consolidation company if the credit card companies have already sold your accounts to collection agencies?

There is no difference between defending a lawsuit brought by the original creditor versus one by a collection agency. The only valid defense for a creditor suit is that the debt is not valid. The...

its unusual, from the ones ive known, no most use an internet site to process credit cards.

What do you mean, "settle your account"?? If you mean pay it off with so much on the dollar, you tell them just that; and give your reasons for the request. There is nothing that compels them to do...

There is no special rule that says why should businesses use collection agencies. One of the most essential activities of a business is dealing with the accounts payable and there is going to be...

Usually yes - they'd rather suspend an account and have it paid off at a few pounds a week than go through taking a debtor to court.