Send him a summons through the mail with the admonition that you will file it if not paid within two weeks. Bet you get paid if they are still in business.

In most collection cases where there is no problem with the services completed and accepted the defendant does not appear or file defensive pleadings. Judgment enters by default following expiration of the return date. There is no need for either party to appear in court. So don't be afraid to file the suit in another state. If you change your mind later you can withdraw the suit. You will have spent the filing fee, but you can feel satisfied that you did everything that you could.