Asked in Civil Litigation for Alabama

Q: I won a case in Lee County Alabama March of 2021. I have not received anything. Can I garnish his wages or anything?

18 thousand plus 7 percent interest.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: If you won a case in Lee County, Alabama in March 2021 and have not yet received the awarded amount, you do have legal options to enforce the judgment. In Alabama, one common method to collect a judgment is through wage garnishment. This process involves a court order directing the debtor's employer to withhold a portion of their earnings to satisfy the debt.

Before proceeding with wage garnishment, you should first ensure that the judgment includes the principal amount of $18,000 plus the 7 percent interest as stipulated. It's important to calculate the total amount due accurately, including any interest accrued since the judgment was awarded.

To initiate wage garnishment, you would typically need to file a request with the court. This may involve submitting specific forms and providing evidence of the judgment and the debtor's employment details. It's advisable to be aware of the state's rules regarding the maximum amount that can be garnished from the debtor’s wages, as there are legal limits to protect a portion of the debtor's income.

If wage garnishment is not feasible or if the debtor has other assets, there are other methods of judgment enforcement available in Alabama, such as bank account levies or property liens. Each method has its own legal requirements and procedures.

Given the complexity of judgment enforcement, consulting with an attorney experienced in this area can be beneficial. They can guide you through the process, help you understand your options, and assist in taking the appropriate legal steps to collect your judgment. Remember, the effectiveness of these methods can vary based on the debtor's financial situation and the specific circumstances of your case.

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