As a legal expert with extensive experience in civil litigation and debt resolution, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what happens if you have a judgment against you. It is crucial to understand that a judgment is a formal decision made by a court, and it can have significant consequences on your financial and legal standing.
**Step 1: Understanding the Judgment Process**
In order to get a judgment against you, the creditor or collector must take you to court. This typically happens when you have an outstanding debt or obligation that you have failed to pay. The creditor may initiate legal action by filing a lawsuit against you. If you are served with a summons, which is a legal notice to appear in court, it is essential to respond appropriately. Ignoring the summons or failing to appear in court can lead to a default judgment in favor of the creditor.
Step 2: The Impact of a Default Judgment
If you don't respond to a summons, or if you lose the case in court, the court will issue a judgment in favor of the creditor or collector. This judgment is a legal declaration that you owe the specified amount of money to the creditor. It is important to note that the judgment amount often includes not just the original debt but also interest, court costs, and possibly attorney's fees.
Step 3: Public Record and Credit Score
Once the judgment is issued, it will be filed with the court, and it becomes a part of the public record. This means that the judgment is accessible to anyone who conducts a search on your legal history. Having a judgment on your record can negatively impact your credit score, making it more difficult for you to obtain loans, credit cards, or even rent an apartment in the future.
Step 4: Enforcement of the Judgment
Creditors have several options to enforce a judgment and collect the money owed to them. They may use various methods, such as:
- Wage Garnishment: The creditor can obtain a wage garnishment order, which allows them to take a portion of your wages directly from your employer.
- Bank Account Levies: They can levy your bank accounts, which means they can freeze and then seize funds from your accounts to satisfy the debt.
- Liens on Property: A creditor can place a lien on your real property, such as your home, which can prevent you from selling or refinancing the property until the debt is paid.
- Seizure of Personal Property: In some cases, the creditor may be able to seize and sell your personal property, such as a car or other valuable items, to recover the money owed.
Step 5: Options to Resolve the Judgment
If you find yourself with a judgment against you, there are several steps you can take to resolve the situation:
- Payment Plan: You can negotiate a payment plan with the creditor to pay off the judgment over time.
- Settlement: You may be able to settle the debt for less than the full amount owed.
- Bankruptcy: Filing for bankruptcy can stop collection efforts and may discharge the debt, but it has significant consequences for your credit.
- Removal of the Judgment: If there was a procedural error in obtaining the judgment, you may be able to have it removed or set aside.

It is always advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in debt and judgment issues to understand the best course of action for your specific circumstances.

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In order to get a judgment against you, the creditor or collector must take you to court. If you don't respond to a summons, or if you lose, the court will issue a judgment in favor of the creditor or collector. The judgment will be filed with the court, and once that happens, it is public record.Apr 20, 2017read more >>