He now owes about $23,000 in credit-card debt.

For several years, he was using credit card B to pay the balance on credit card A, and card C to pay B, and so on.

Now one of his creditors is suing him.

They warned him of "very dire" consequences if he doesn't show up for court.

Is it possible that they could put him in jail?

What's the worst that can happen if they force him into bankruptcy?

At least that will get all the others off his back.

What Harry says: There are a number of bad things that can happen, but not jail unless he obtained credit fraudulently.

Debtors' prisons no longer exist in most enlightened countries.

It will mean mandatory credit counseling which is a good thing for him.

It will also remain on his credit record for 10 years. That can be pretty nasty, especially at his age.

It may also mean that not all of his debts are washed out. He may be required to make payments on restructured amounts for each of his creditors, and that will surely hurt his future ability to spend.

A lawyer who specializes in bankruptcy would be a big help. *

Write Harry Gross c/o the Daily News, 400 N. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 19130. Harry urges all his readers to give blood - contact the American Red Cross at 800-GIVE LIFE.