UNIFUND CCR,LLC Filed a civil case against me even though almost 4 years ago the credit card company told me that were going to write me off as a bad credit because of my financial situation Atlanta, Georgia

I was served a notice that Unifund CCR, LLC had filed a civil suit against me.  I had an AT&T credit card in 2009.  I called them when I realized my pay was being cut at work, and I was also losing days because of being furloughed.  They told me that they would write me off as a bad credit and it may hurt my credit score.  That was the last I heard from them, until Unifund CCR bought my case from AT&T.  I don't understand how they can make me pay when the original credit card company released me. 

Can anybody help me, tell me what to do or who to talk to about this?  I have one month for a rebuttal and May 15th is the due date.  I still do not have money, I work in education and they have cut our salaries, given us less days to work, make us pay for our insurance and it is not getting any better.  I can retire next year, but not if I am going to be sued for 3,200.00.  CCR has added money to my balance, and now want me to pay for court costs.  Can I do something to keep from having to go to court?  Please somebody help me out, I just need guidance.  Thanks