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What should I do if I can't pay a small claims judgment?

What should I do if I can't pay a small claims judgment?

Q: How long after a default judgement can wages be garnished?

Wages can typically be garnished after a default judgment is entered, which usually occurs 30 days after the judgment if no appeal is filed. The exact timeline may vary by state, so it's essential to check local laws. Once the judgment is finalized, the creditor can initiate wage garnishment to collect the owed amount.

Q: What happens if you lose a lawsuit and have no money?

If you lose a lawsuit and have no money, the court may still issue a judgment against you. This means you are legally obligated to pay, but if you cannot, the creditor may seek to garnish your wages or place a lien on your property. You may also request a payment plan or modification based on your financial situation.

Full question:

I lost a judgement on a small claims case. I don't have the money to pay the judgement. My ex wants me to pay monthly more than I have. What do I do?

Category: Judgments
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Michigan

Answer:

If you cannot pay the judgment, consider discussing your financial situation with your ex. You might negotiate a more manageable monthly payment plan that fits your budget. If that doesn’t work, you can request the court to modify the payment terms based on your financial circumstances. It's important to communicate openly and seek a solution that works for both parties.

Additionally, consulting with a financial advisor can provide you with strategies to manage your finances effectively.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can you go to jail for not paying a judgement?

You cannot be sent to jail simply for not paying a judgment. However, if the court believes you are willfully refusing to pay or hiding assets, they may hold you in contempt of court. This could lead to fines or, in rare cases, jail time. It's important to communicate your financial situation to the court and seek a modification of the payment terms if necessary.

What are the consequences of losing a lawsuit?

If you lose a lawsuit, you may be required to pay the other party's legal fees and any damages awarded by the court. Additionally, a judgment against you can impact your credit score and may lead to wage garnishment or liens on your property. It's crucial to understand your obligations and explore options for payment if you cannot afford the judgment.

How long after a default judgement can wages be garnished?

What happens if you lose a lawsuit and have no money?

What happens if someone sues me but I have no money?

If someone sues you and you have no money, the court may still rule against you, resulting in a judgment. While you may not be able to pay immediately, the creditor can pursue collection methods like wage garnishment or liens. It's advisable to communicate your financial situation to the creditor and explore options for a manageable payment plan.

What can happen if you lose in small claims court?

If you lose in small claims court, you may be required to pay the amount awarded to the other party, including any court costs. The judgment can lead to wage garnishment, bank levies, or liens on your property if not paid. If you cannot afford to pay, consider negotiating a payment plan with the other party or seeking a modification from the court.