Judgment Collection Service & FAQs
Judgment collection is the process of enforcing a money judgment by collecting what is owed from the debtor. It can be a simple or complicated process depending on the debtor’s level of cooperation.
The easiest-to-work-with debtors are ready and willing to pay as soon as collection efforts begin. They are forthright about providing income and asset information. They might even voluntarily agree to a monthly installment plan.
Judgment debtors on the other end of the scale could very easily be less cooperative. They could resist providing income and asset information. They could resist any and all attempts to collect, including written letters, communications through their attorneys, etc.
Regardless of the level of cooperation, a judgment creditor has the legal right to collect. That legal right is rooted in the fact that a money judgment recognizes the legitimacy of the debt in question. Judgment collection is simply the exercise of the creditor’s rights.
Benefits of Working With Professional Judgment Collectors
- Specialization – Unlike creditors and their attorneys, judgments are a specialty among professional collectors. Here at Judgment Collectors, enforcing money judgments is our only line of business.
- Knowledge – Professional judgment collectors have the knowledge required to make the best use of all available tools. From garnishment to property liens and writs of seizure, a judgment collection agency knows how to use each one.
- Collection Responsibilities – Once a collection agency takes over a case, it also accepts all responsibility for collection. The creditor’s only other responsibility is to relax and wait to get paid. A creditor can devote precious resources to more important tasks.
The benefits of working with professional judgment collectors begin with the fact that they will go to great lengths to collect. A judgment collection agency will typically go much further than an individual or business, even to the extent of locating an airplane hangar in a neighboring county.
This example comes right out of our own experiences. We worked on a case involving a doctor who was less than cooperative. During our investigation, we uncovered his airplane hangar. Once we clarified that we knew of the property, the doctor was willing to work out payment.
In short, professional judgment collectors are the most qualified to pursue this unique type of debt. Judgments are unlike any other kind of debt, and they require the special attention clients get from Judgment Collectors.
Industries We Serve
Here at Judgment Collectors, we serve individuals and companies in a variety of industries. they include:
- – Advertising and marketing
- – Construction
- – Education and training
- – Healthcare services
- – Independent contracting
- – Manufacturing
- – Material supply
- – Professional services
- – Real estate services
- – Transportation and logistics
Our vast experience in so many industries gives us a leg up on the competition. Even if your industry is not listed here, we might still be able to help. Feel free to contact us with details about your judgment.
State By State Laws
It is important to note that civil litigation is subject to individual state laws. We provide services in nearly a dozen states, each with its own system for addressing money judgments. All collection efforts must be conducted in accordance with the laws of the state in which they are taking place. This is true even if an outstanding judgment is domesticated in another state.
Should you choose to work with Judgment Collectors, we will go through any state-specific laws you have questions about. Also know that the laws in your state will dictate the collection strategies available to us. Here are the states that we work in:
- – Arizona
- – California
- – Idaho
- – Georgia
- – Kentucky
- – Michigan
- – Missouri
- – Ohio
- – Texas
- – Utah
- – Washington
Can a judgment be renewed after it expires?
No, a judgment cannot be renewed after expiration. However, it can be renewed prior to expiration by filing the appropriate paperwork with the court.
What types of assets can be collected from a debtor?
Any asset considered non-exempt under state law can be leveraged for collection purposes. Bank accounts and real estate are the most common examples. But other assets – including wages, royalties, and collectibles – can be targeted.
Do I need a lawyer to enforce a judgment?
The law does not require a judgment creditor to leave enforcement to an attorney. While some judgments are collected by attorneys, they are more often collected by specialized debt collection agencies like Judgment Collectors.
Can judgments be collected in another state?
Yes, judgments can be collected in other states where debtors have assets. We can look for assets virtually anywhere. However, collection in another jurisdiction requires that the judgment be domesticated.
How much does judgment collection typically cost?
Judgment collection costs vary. The complexity of the debtor’s assets affects them. Note that we cover all our own costs. You face no further financial obligation after turning your judgment over to us.
What happens if the debtor has no assets?
If we agree to take a case involving a debtor with no assets, we will continue to monitor the debtor’s position for the life of the judgment. Debtors sometimes acquire income or assets that can be leveraged down the road.