Winning a lawsuit is a huge relief. You finally have a court judgment saying that the money you’re owed is legally yours. But as many people in New York quickly learn, winning the case doesn’t mean the check is in the mail. Collecting on a judgment can be a whole new challenge.
That’s where a judgment collection attorney comes in. If you’ve never worked with one before, you may wonder: What do they actually do? How does the process work? And most importantly, what can you expect once you bring one on board?
Let’s break it down in a clear and friendly way.
Step 1: Understanding Your Situation
The first thing an attorney will do is listen. Every case is different—sometimes the debtor has plenty of assets but refuses to pay, and other times, they’ve gone to great lengths to hide what they own.
Your attorney will ask questions like:
- How much is owed?
- Do you know where the debtor works or banks?
- Has the debtor made any payments so far?
This conversation helps them figure out the best strategy for moving forward.
Step 2: Investigating the Debtor
Once your attorney has the details, the next step is finding out what resources the debtor has. This can include:
- Employment information (for wage garnishment).
- Bank accounts (for levies).
- Real estate or other valuable property (for liens).
Attorneys have tools and legal methods for uncovering this information. For example, they might use subpoenas or public records to learn more about the debtor’s finances. This investigation is crucial because it shows the paths available for collection.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Tools
In New York, there are several legal tools that can be used to collect a judgment. Your attorney will explain the options and recommend what makes the most sense for your case. These may include:
- Wage Garnishment: Having part of the debtor’s paycheck sent directly to you.
- Bank Levies: Freezing and withdrawing funds from a debtor’s bank account.
- Property Liens: Placing a claim on real estate so you’re paid when it’s sold or refinanced.
- Asset Seizures: In certain cases, property like vehicles or equipment can be taken and sold to cover the debt.
Each option has its own rules and timelines, and your attorney will guide you through the process step by step.
Step 4: Handling the Paperwork
Court filings, deadlines, and official notices are all part of the collection process. If you’re not familiar with New York law, it’s easy to miss a requirement or make a mistake that delays things.
One of the biggest benefits of having a judgment collection attorney is that they handle the paperwork for you. This means less stress and fewer chances of running into frustrating setbacks.
Step 5: Keeping You Updated
Collection doesn’t always happen overnight. Sometimes debtors cooperate quickly, while other times it takes persistence. A good attorney will keep you updated, explain what’s happening, and let you know the next steps.
This communication helps you feel informed and supported instead of left in the dark.
Why Working With an Attorney Matters
It’s possible to try to collect a judgment on your own, but many people find the process overwhelming. Debtors often know how to avoid payment, and New York’s laws can be tricky to navigate without help.
When you work with an attorney, you don’t have to carry that burden alone. You get a clear plan, professional guidance, and a much better chance of actually receiving the money you’re owed.
A Call to Action
If you’ve won a lawsuit but are struggling to collect what’s rightfully yours, don’t wait any longer. A skilled judgment collection attorney can help you turn that piece of paper from the court into real results. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can move forward with peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Working with a judgment collection attorney doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be empowering. From investigating the debtor to filing the right paperwork and using legal tools effectively, your attorney is there to guide you through every step of the process.
Winning your case was the first victory. Collecting your judgment is the second. With the right support, you can finally close the chapter and move on—knowing you stood up for yourself and got what you deserved.