credit card n collections

by jutta
(raleigh, nc/usa)

Several years ago I took out a Home Equity Loan with Bank of America. The agent at the bank suggested that it would be a good idea to pay off my credit card debt with the loan. For two years I paid the credit card off with the equity loan and vice versa. I, however, kept using the funds available from my equity loan for car repairs, home repairs, etc., (so there was not enough money left to pay off the credit card again). Last October I was to do another turn around only to find out that the agent was fired by the bank for bad practices and there was no more 0% interest credit card. I now was looking at a variable percentage rate and the minimum payment on a $23000 credit card jumped to $440 per month. I was able to refinance my house and the plan was to pay off the cc debt. Bank of America suggested I pay off the Home Equity Loan instead. I did exactly that but was no longer able to pay the minimum payment on my credit card. I finally stopped paying on my debt in March. Now the debt is with Northstar Collection Agency. I received a letter stating that I have 30 days to pay the debt or they will return the debt to Bank of America , who will forward it to a network of attorneys. I make about $25000 per year, and live from paycheck to paycheck. I want to pay my debt. What is the best step to take? I live in North Carolina.
Do I need a lawyer or can I take care of this myself? Thank you for your time and answers. JM