Credit Union Trying To Garnish Wages Over A 17 Year Old Unpaid Debt.

Hello, so yesterday my brother in law came by my house and gave me some certified mail that he said had to sign for via the mail lady (he lives at my old property). I open it and its from an attorney’s office stating that they have filed for garnishment of my wages from my employer for an unpaid debt from 2008 from a credit union I used at that time.

I dont even know what this debt is for but I was 22 years old and an idiot financially so Im not saying its not mine because all this paperwork is very real.

My question is, how can this happen so long after the debt was due and why is this the first time Im hearing about it.

Im terrified of having my wages garnished because I know that will negatively impact my credit. If I have to pay it, Id rather just pay it than have the garnishment go through.

I read on google for this to happen that they would have to take me to court and get a judgement against me but the statute of limitations in my state (Georgia) is 6 years if Im not mistaken.

Idk what to do and any advice is great advice. Thanks!