San Rafael, CA asked in Collections for California

Q: Are there any ways to renew a judgment in California after ten years?

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In California, a judgment is valid for ten years from the date it was entered. After ten years, it is no longer enforceable unless you take action to renew it before it expires. To extend the judgment, you need to file a renewal request with the court where the original judgment was entered. This must be done within the ten-year period, and if successful, the renewal extends the judgment for another ten years.

If the judgment has already expired, there are no straightforward options to renew it. Once a judgment lapses, the court loses its authority to enforce it, and any efforts to collect on it are no longer valid. This is why it is crucial to act before the ten-year mark is reached.

If you're close to the deadline, consider checking the court's website for the required forms and instructions or consult with someone who can guide you through the process. Remember that time is of the essence, and missing the deadline could mean losing the ability to enforce the judgment.

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