I lost my Wife to XXXX. in 2007 after 3 years of caregiving at home. 
During the time she was sick I let some debts to the city that were on a on a payment plan go unpaid as all funds went to medical/ caregiving. 
I left my home XXXX after 1 year bereavement and went off to find myself. 
I am back in my home XXXX now after 8 years, remarried, and trying to clean up my credit and debts from my past. 
The existing balance of {$3900.00} to the City/County went to collections, then to court where a Judge awarded the collection agency XXXX that amount???. 
I have been in contact with the collection agency trying very hard to mediate a reasonable resolution and to square up with them as this balance has frozen my ability to obtain a State Drivers Licence. 
Under the circumstances surounding this debt can I challenge or petition the courts to reduce the amazingly ridiculous penalties and interest? HELP! : )