Default Judgments
A default judgment occurs when you fail to respond to a lawsuit within the required timeframe. This gives the creditor or debt collector an automatic win, allowing them to pursue aggressive collection actions against you.
The Consequences of Default Judgments
- Wage garnishment (up to 25% of your disposable income)
- Bank account levies (freezing and taking money from your accounts)
- Property liens (claims against your real estate)
- Damage to your credit score
- Potential seizure of assets
How We Can Help
At NationalLaw.us, we specialize in helping clients deal with default judgments. Our experienced attorneys can:
- File a motion to set aside (vacate) the default judgment
- Challenge the judgment based on improper service or other legal grounds
- Negotiate settlements to resolve the judgment for less than the full amount
- Stop wage garnishments and bank levies
- Remove judgment liens from your property
- Develop a comprehensive strategy to address your specific situation
Setting Aside a Default Judgment
In certain circumstances, we may be able to get your default judgment set aside (vacated), which essentially erases the judgment and gives you the opportunity to defend against the lawsuit.
Grounds for Setting Aside a Default Judgment
- Improper Service: You were never properly served with the lawsuit
- Excusable Neglect: You had a valid reason for not responding
- Fraud or Misconduct: The plaintiff obtained the judgment through deceptive means
- Void Judgment: The court lacked jurisdiction or the judgment violates the law
Time Limitations
There are strict time limits for filing a motion to set aside a default judgment. In most cases, you must act within a certain period after discovering the judgment.
Don't delay! Contact us immediately if you've discovered a default judgment against you. The sooner we can take action, the better your chances of success.
Judgment Settlement Options
Even if we can't get the judgment set aside, we can often negotiate a settlement for significantly less than the full judgment amount. Our attorneys have extensive experience negotiating with creditors and debt collectors to reach favorable settlements for our clients.
Lump Sum Settlements
We may be able to negotiate a one-time payment for a fraction of the judgment amount, with the remainder forgiven.
Payment Plans
We can negotiate affordable monthly payments that fit your budget, often with a reduction in the total amount owed.
Judgment Satisfaction
Once a settlement is reached, we ensure the judgment is properly satisfied and removed from public records.
Take Action Today
Default judgments won't go away on their own, and the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. The sooner you address the judgment, the more options you'll have.
At NationalLaw.us, we've helped thousands of clients deal with default judgments and their consequences. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Schedule Your Free ConsultationYears of Experience Handling Default Judgments
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if there's a default judgment against me?
You may discover a default judgment when your wages are garnished, your bank account is frozen, or you receive notice of a lien on your property. You can also check court records or your credit report.
How long does a judgment last?
In most states, judgments can last for 10 years and can often be renewed for additional periods. Without action, a judgment can affect you for decades.
Can bankruptcy help with a default judgment?
Yes, bankruptcy can discharge many types of judgment debts. However, this is a serious step with long-term consequences. We can discuss whether bankruptcy is appropriate for your situation.