Bill and I luck out. We've got a great credit score, and, I think, we manage our debt well. We actually hide money from ourselves for big purchases we need to make each year (homeowner's insurance, Catholic school tuition, etc). However, I do know that there are many people in this country who aren't as lucky as us. Through situations that are usually no fault of theirs, things happen. People get sick. Others get laid off. Nowadays it is fairly easy to find yourself in debt without even trying. Oftentimes, they are able to reduce your monthly payments, get late fees and over the limit fees waived, and have your credit score not damaged as much as bankruptcy. However, good debt management programs will make you adhere to strict payment plan, have no access to credit cards for a couple years, and come with a higher cost than if you do it yourself.
Before you go this route, make sure you check out a debt management guide to help you make the best financial decisions for your family.