If you are saddled with a huge amount of debt, particularly credit card debt, there's an option available to you that most people don't know about, and the credit card companies don't publicize.
Settling your debt with your creditor is just about the quickest way you can get rid of your debt, but it doesn't come without a price. The biggest negative of debt settlement is that your credit score will suffer for a while, but it will inevitably GO UP not too far down the road.
However, if you've got lots of credit card debt (or are behind on a couple payments), your credit score is probably already in the tank. So with that in mind, you may not have much to lose.
I can tell you from personal experience that debt settlement can free you from tremendous amounts of debt that would otherwise take several years to pay off, even if you paid more than the minimums.
Check out these articles for a more complete understanding of the debt settlement process and debt negotiation.
Citibank Citicards Settlement Letter
Discover Card Settlement Letter
MBNA Bank of America Settlement Letter