NO spammers! Im building a strategy too increase my fica credit rating and open credit card accts.. advice?

I work from home and own a business, now that things are growing i plan on needing a line of credit etc.. i used too have 15 credit cards, department store, jewelry, furniture/visa/mastercard etc... i closed all of them 8yrs ago. that was a mistake as now i have had some spots on my credit and i cannot get credit etc.. i have operated off of debit cards for years now. i own a business and work at home so i have the time and home office too get organized and tackle all of my credit report issues and resolve them etc... i have paid off many auto loans ( installments) and revolving credit accts * credit cards. i have never screwed any lenders or businesses on any debits/loans etc.... the negative **** on my credit history is a 25 thousand dollar entry for medical bills that a guy sued me for in a fight. the reality is that i was a correction officer in a prison years ago and a felon was released after 4yrs. he recoginized me at a blockbuster video store and attacked me with a large chain. i reacted to defend myself and he ended up with over 25k in med bills and he sued me! lol.. a judgement was awarded as he purjured himself and his sbag lawyer went after me for the amount. i refused and i will never pay a dime and somehow this judgement continually appears on my credit report. this issue has hurt my credit obviously, this judgement was in 1997. i have not heard from he or his sbag lawyer. Im trying too simply fix my credit and raise my credit score and just qualify for some visa/mastercard etc...also eventually i would like too have a small business credit line and a credit card or 2. i have the option of pre paid secure card accounts thru my bank. i would like to start their and begin negotiating with the credit trw type places. please no spammers with overnight scams on credit repair. im simply seeking answers from those that have knowledge or experience/advice. I appreciate all answers and your time! thanks... do you guys know of a free credit report site that doesnt offer spam or sign ups or my debit card info etc... it seems that these sights want too pull you in and bill ya right away..... a free report helps me figure out where im at and then maybe i could pay for a service if that is necessary. IDEAS? OPINIONS?