Being sued by debit collector need advice

I am being sued for aproxmently 2 grand my court date is in january. I am not sure what to do if anyone give me advice I would be so gracious.

Im being sued for 2grand however im past due on current bills so I can not pay both this month. I was wondering if anyone has any Ideas on what I should do.

Do I not show up for court

Do I hire a laywer, if so what kind?

If you were in my shoes which would you do? pay the court or pay behind on bills.

I do not feel that I need to file for bankruptcy I have 4.5 grand in credit card debit and aprox 15 thousand in student loans. and no open credit cards.

I really dont have an explanation for why I am in this perdicment, I think im a compulsive spender.

Help would be great I dont know where to start.

I make aprox. 50 grand a year and do not pay any rent....im so ashamed of myself

I should get a nice tax return however my court date is on the 17 and I dont think I will have my w2's by then.