Money Judgments (Liens & Garnishments)

Information on judgments, liens, and garnishments.

When a lien is put on your property, it does not mean that the creditor will get paid right away or will get paid in full, or even at all. Instead, the lien gives the creditor the right to receive a portion of any money you would receive if the property is sold or refinanced. If you do not ever sell the property, the lien may not result in a payment of any money to the creditor.

If you are employed and are unable to pay a debt or a money judgment, the court can order that your wages be “garnished.” This means the money to pay the debt will be taken from your paycheck and paid directly to the creditor. A garnishment is a common way to get you to pay overdue court fines or judgments, child support or for back taxes. In general, garnishment is limited to 25% of your disposable income. However, if the garnishment is to pay delinquent child support, 60% of your income may be garnished.

Information on how to protect your accounts.