I'm being sued by a collection agency. What should I do?

I came home one day to find a court summons stuck in my door, left by the state marshall. I’m being sued by a collection agency. My Chase credit card informed me that they were writing me off and I thought I wouldn’t have to worry about my debt but then it got bought by Midland Funding. Now they are taking me to court and I am terrified! I’ve been out of work for three and a half years and cannot afford to pay. I no longer have an IRA or savings account. I am seriously broke and cannot afford a lawyer. The debt is just over $6000. I am a property owner with my other siblings and am scared to death they could take my property away. I don’t even want anyone in my family to know about this. Help!!!! What should I do? I’ve tried to read the court summons several times and don’t even understand it completely. Is it possible to find a lawyer/public defender for free to help me? I live in CT. Any and all advice welcome! I feel like I’m about to have a nervous breakdown. This is so overwhelming. I was with Care One for a year and a half after I lost my job and things were fine till my unemployment ran out, then my savings…. I know I’ve stuck my head in the sand when it came to dealing with this matter but now I have no choice. I’ve never been to court and don’t know what to expect. Please help me…anyone who has been through this or knows what I need to do!!!