Don’t wait to hear from a debt collection lawyer
A debt collection lawyer usually only gets involved with recovery of debts after court action has been instigated. They are authorized by their clients to enter into agreements to recover the debt over a very short period of time - don’t expect them to agree to years of payments. They can also negotiate debt settlements and pursue further action against you such as requesting a wage garnishment order or a Sheriffs visit.
Either way you would be extremely foolish to ignore any contact you receive from a debt collection lawyer. It is far easier to enter into arrangements with your creditors prior to legal action being taken against you but if it has already reached that stage do something about it today.