How to Find Legal Help to Collect a Judgment

Collection of judgments can be a confusing and frustrating experience. Unfortunately, legal aid foundations do not generally accept collections cases. Additionally, the court that issued your judgment can not assist you in collecting your judgment except for issuing orders such as an Order for a Debtors Examination, Writs of Possession, Writs of Execution, Garnishments and Levy Orders. Your best option for locating a collections attorney is by searching the website maintained by Martindale. Read on to learn how to find legal help to collect a judgment.

Instructions

1

Search the Martindale attorney directory online or locate a collections attorney from your local Yellow Page Directory. Enter collections at the Martindale search website. Jot down the contact information for attorneys who frequently handle collections. Any websites maintained by the attorney or his law firm are listed, too.

2

Select one or more attorneys that handle collections cases and make an appointment. At your appointment, be sure to bring all documents relating to your case, judgment and describe any attempts that you have made to locate assets of the debtor. Before hiring a lawyer, you should contact the attorneys representative clients. You can also check to see if the attorney has a disciplinary record by contacting your states bar association.

3

Contact your local Lawyer Referral Service (LRS) for an appointment to talk to an attorney, if you desire. Often, an LRS will charge a nominal consultation fee. In some cases, an LRS may arrange for a free consultation.

4

Sign an agreement with the attorney that you have chosen. You will likely be required to pay an attorneys retainer for his services along with a deposit for anticipated court costs.

5

File documents with the court through the attorney representing you. Often, attorneys will request an Order for Debtors Examination. The court will then order the judgment debtor to attend where you or your attorney can ask the debtor about any and all assets the judgment debtor has in his possession.

6

Collect your award through one or more writs (hopefully).