Collection agencies are a waste of time. All they can do is write theatening letters and make annoying telephone calls. Most people trash the letters and screen out the calls with an answering machine. Take a look at the postings of the signing agents on Notary Rotary. They constantly complain of delinquent clients refusing to answer the phone or return telephone calls. The collection agencies have no power to enforce the claim, and the debtors know it. Why waste time? Take it into small claims or whatever appropriate court yourself or through legal counsel. By the time you waste time with a collection agency the delinquent defendant very often has disapated the funds, and there is nothing left to pay your claim even if you win. Speed is key to recovery.