I am filing bankruptcy but have a question about a civil case against me?

[darrell]

I am about to move to another state and was told when I get there that I can't file bankruptcy until I have been there for 3 months which is fine. I got served to go to court (actually the same day that I am moving) for an outstanding credit card balance that is roughly $3,000.00. I will go if I need to. My question's are: Do I need to appear at court for a civil case? What are the chances that the judge will make me come back for a second appearance if I do go or make me come if I don't go? (plane tickets are not cheap nor is gas for an 18 hour drive). If I go and sign something saying I am guilty of the charges can it be written off in my bankruptcy when I file? When I got served I called the law firm that is taking me to court and told them that I am moving and may not be able to go to court and so they sent me paperwork to go get the papers notarized and the court papers were included. It says in the papers that I am to pay $100/month plus interest and court costs and filing fees and for the papers that I got served with to be delivered to my home. I was stupid when I was on the phone with them because I made a payment of $100 without seeing if I can use this in my bankruptcy case. A few of my family members are telling me to not even go to court and not to sign anything. If i had the time and money before I moved to file bankruptcy here I would but unfortunately I don't. Is there a chance that I could have a warrant for my arrest if I don't appear at court? The law firm told me that there would not be because it is a civil case and not a criminal case but I am a big worrier and this whole situation is eating me alive. Please give me any info that you may have. I tried calling a few lawyer's just to ask a few questions and I left messages with the secretary's but they never called me back so I was left in the dark and court is Thursday and this is Tuesday! Please help!!!