SSI, Debt, Summons, and Bankruptcy

Hello, I live on supplemental security income, which is a form of disability from the government. I have that debt from 3 credit cards and got a summons from a collection agency for one card. They sent what seems like good evidence so I don’t think I can get out of it by going to court.

I know that SSI is exempt from garnishment, but I do earn money from occasional work and insurance settlements. I barely make enough to survive and if I have a judgment against me, the disability office will count any money I earn even if it’s taken my garnishment against me. That could drastically reduce my income I barely survive month to month. (Normally people on disability can earn a certain amount of outside income and won’t count it against you.)

If the other debt holders find out that I settled, will they also pursue claims through the court? Is bankruptcy possible? Can I do it without hiring a lawyer? Should I try to get all three debt holders to consolidate the debt and make a low monthly payment? Is consolidation possible if you already have a summons?