What Should a Creditor Do When a Judgment Is Nearing Its Expiration Date?

When you’ve worked hard to secure a court judgment against a debtor, the last thing you want is for that judgment to expire before you’ve collected what’s owed. Judgments aren’t enforceable forever—they are governed by statutes of limitations, which vary by state. If your judgment is nearing its expiration date, it’s crucial to act quickly to preserve your rights and maximize your chances of recovery.

The first step is to confirm how much time remains on your judgment. Here’s how:

• Understand the Statute of Limitations: Different states have different enforcement periods, often ranging from 5 to 20 years. For example, in California, judgments are enforceable for 10 years, while in New York, the period is 20 years.

• Check Court Records: Review the court’s records to ensure you have the correct judgment date and details.

Take Immediate Enforcement Actions

If renewal isn’t an option or the deadline is fast approaching, consider taking these steps to enforce the judgment while it’s still valid:

• Garnish Wages: Obtain a court order to take a portion of the debtor’s wages directly.

• Levy Bank Accounts: Freeze and seize funds from the debtor’s bank accounts.

• File Property Liens: Place a lien on the debtor’s real estate or other assets to secure payment.

These actions can help you collect before time runs out.

Seek Professional Assistance

Time is of the essence when a judgment is nearing expiration. If you’re unsure of your options, consider hiring professionals:

• Collections Attorneys: An attorney can help you file for renewal, enforce the judgment, or advise on alternative collection strategies.

• Debt Collection Agencies: These agencies specialize in recovering debts quickly and may have tools to expedite the process.

A judgment nearing expiration doesn’t have to mean lost opportunities. By taking proactive steps—such as renewing the judgment, enforcing it swiftly, or consulting professionals—you can protect your right to collect. Time is critical, so act quickly to preserve your legal leverage and get closer to recovering what’s owed.

Lawrence Smith, Roslyn, NY

Lawrence Smith, Roslyn, NY