Imagine you’ve gone through the legal wringer, presented your case, and emerged victorious. The judge rules in your favor, issuing a judgment that declares the other party owes you money or specific actions. You sigh in relief, feeling vindicated and hopeful about getting what’s due. But hold on, the journey isn’t over yet.
Collect on a judgment in New York can be a labyrinthine process, riddled with twists and turns. This blog helps you understand collecting money after a judgment in New York. It gives you the basics in simple terms for dealing with things after the judgment.
Understanding Your Judgment:
First things first, dissect your judgment document. It details the amount owed, deadlines for payment, and the specific actions the other party must take (if applicable). Feel free to clarify any points with your lawyer. Remember, it’s your roadmap to claiming what’s owed.
Taking the First Steps:
Once you grasp the judgment’s contents, it’s time to initiate collection. Here are your primary options:
- Demand for Payment: Send a formal written demand to the debtor outlining the judgment and the expected payment date. This puts the ball in their court and serves as documented proof of your efforts.
- Wage Garnishment: You can tell the person’s boss to take some of their paycheck and send it to you. This helps you get the money owed over time.
- Bank Levy: Similar to wage garnishment, a levy allows you to seize funds instantly from the debtor’s bank accounts.
- Property Lien: This places a claim on the debtor’s property, potentially hindering their ability to sell it until the judgment is paid.
Exploring Additional Options:
Depending on the specific circumstances, other avenues might be available. These could include:
- Attachment of Assets: You can take the person’s stuff, like cars or jewelry, that they can’t keep, and sell it to get the money they owe.
- Contempt of Court: If the person clearly ignores the judgment, they might get fined or even go to jail for not following what the court said.
Navigating the Challenges:
Collecting on a judgment can be challenging sailing. Debtors may attempt to stall, hide assets, or even file for bankruptcy. Get ready for problems and work with your lawyer to solve them. Remember, persistence and patience are vital allies in this journey.
Conclusion
Securing a judgment is a significant victory, but collecting on it requires diligence and knowledge. This blog gives a simple overview to help you start getting back what’s rightfully yours. Remember, asking professionals for help can increase your chances of success and make it easier to get your money back.
