The ancient concept of a “Debtors Prison” has deep roots and remains surrounded by mythology. The photo is from a recent trip I took to the Eastern Shore of Virginia, with its famous (and unused) Debtors Prison jail next to the Accomack County, Virginia, Courthouse.
You cannot be imprisoned for not paying civil debts in Pennsylvania, with the notable exception of child support payments. There are still limited abilities for courts to imprison someone for limited periods of time for unpaid debts connected with criminal proceedings or for conduct while a lawsuit is ongoing, but these topics are for another day.
Suffice to say that defaulting on a home mortgage, credit card, medical bill, utility bill, personal loan or car loan will not result in imprisonment for the failure to pay the debt.
If you are faced with situation where you are overwhelmed with bills or are being sued and harassed by creditors, it is best to talk with experienced attorneys who know how to guide you through this difficult time. Attorneys Scott M. Amori and Matthew A. Schmidt of Amori & Associates, LLC would be happy to sit with you for a no obligation consultation.
Please contact Amori & Associates at (570) 421-1406.