Winning a court case and getting a judgment in your favor is a big victory. But in many ways, it’s just the first step. A judgment on paper doesn’t automatically put money in your pocket. The real challenge is turning that judgment into actual payment — and that’s where many creditors make costly mistakes.
Understanding the most common judgment enforcement errors can help you avoid delays, protect your rights, and increase your chances of collecting in full.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to Act
Time is your enemy when it comes to collecting a judgment. The longer you wait, the more likely the debtor is to move assets, close accounts, or file for bankruptcy. In some states, judgments expire if you don’t enforce them within a certain period.
Acting quickly shows the debtor you are serious and prevents them from getting ahead of you. Start the enforcement process as soon as possible after winning your case. Even simple steps, like sending a demand letter or filing a lien, can set the collection process in motion.
Mistake #2: Failing to Investigate the Debtor’s Assets
Before you can collect, you need to know what the debtor owns and where their money is. Many creditors skip this step, relying only on what they already know. This can lead to missed opportunities.
Asset investigations can uncover:
- Bank accounts
- Real estate holdings
- Vehicles and other valuable property
- Business interests
- Sources of income
Modern tools — including public records, private investigators, and even AI-powered search systems — can help you track down hidden or undisclosed assets. Without this information, you’re enforcing a judgment in the dark.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Accrued Interest
A judgment often earns interest until it’s paid in full. This means the amount owed can grow over time. Many creditors forget to calculate and collect this extra amount, leaving money on the table.
Make sure you know your state’s interest rate for judgments and how to calculate it. This can significantly increase the total payment you receive, especially for older judgments.
Mistake #4: Using the Wrong Enforcement Tool
There are several legal tools available for judgment collection, such as:
- Wage garnishment – Taking a portion of the debtor’s paycheck
- Bank levies – Freezing and seizing funds from bank accounts
- Property liens – Placing a legal claim on real estate or other property
- Seizure of assets – Taking physical property to satisfy the debt
Choosing the wrong method can waste time and money. For example, trying to garnish wages from a self-employed debtor won’t work. A skilled Judgement Collection Attorney can help you select the most effective strategy based on the debtor’s financial situation.
Mistake #5: Overlooking Exemptions and Legal Limits
Debtors often have certain protections under state or federal law. For example, some income sources — like Social Security or certain pensions — may be exempt from collection. Ignoring these rules can result in wasted efforts or even legal trouble.
Before taking action, make sure you understand what can and cannot be collected. This ensures your enforcement steps are legal and effective.
Mistake #6: Not Renewing the Judgment in Time
In many states, judgments have an expiration date — often 10 years from the date they were entered. If you don’t renew before that date, you lose the right to collect.
Even if you’re still actively collecting, failing to renew can put your entire claim at risk. Mark renewal deadlines on your calendar and act early to protect your rights.
Mistake #7: Trying to Go It Alone
Judgment enforcement can be complex, involving multiple court filings, legal rules, and strategic decisions. Many creditors try to handle it themselves to save money, but this often leads to delays, mistakes, or missed opportunities.
Working with an experienced attorney can make a big difference. A legal professional can help you investigate assets, choose the right enforcement tools, comply with deadlines, and respond to debtor tactics.
Key Takeaways
Winning a judgment is only half the battle — collecting it requires skill, speed, and attention to detail. Avoiding the most common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of getting paid.
- Don’t wait to act
- Investigate assets thoroughly
- Include accrued interest
- Choose the right enforcement method
- Respect exemptions and legal limits
- Renew judgments before they expire
- Get professional help when needed
By taking these steps, you can move from courtroom victory to actual payment — without unnecessary delays or costly errors.
If you need help enforcing a judgment or want to make sure you’re avoiding these pitfalls, contact Warner & Scheuerman. Our team has years of experience turning court wins into real collections.