Judgment Enforcement in California: What Judgment Creditors Need to Know

Winning a lawsuit and obtaining a judgment is a major victory—but it does not guarantee that you will be paid. Many California judgment creditors are surprised to learn that judgment enforcement is a separate and often complex process. A court may award you money, but the court does not automatically collect it for you.

That responsibility falls on you—unless you hire an experienced California judgment enforcement attorney to handle the process.

Why Judgment Enforcement Is Often Necessary

A judgment debtor may:

• Refuse to pay

• Hide assets

• Transfer funds to avoid collection

• Ignore communication

• Assume the creditor will not pursue enforcement

California law provides strong tools to locate and seize assets, but navigating these procedures alone can be overwhelming.

How Sari Law Firm Helps California Judgment Creditors

At Sari Law Firm, we assist creditors statewide in enforcing and collecting judgments efficiently and aggressively. Our services include:

1. Bank Account Levies

We work with the sheriff to freeze and seize the debtor’s bank funds.

2. Wage Garnishment

A portion of the debtor’s wages can be withheld until the judgment is satisfied.

3. Abstracts of Judgment and Liens

We record liens against real property, preventing refinancing or sale without paying you.

4. Property Levies & Sheriff Sales

Vehicles, equipment, or other non-exempt property can be seized and sold.

5. Judgment Debtor Examinations

We compel the debtor to appear in court and disclose all assets under oath.

6. Out-of-State Judgments

If your judgment was issued in another state, we can domesticate and enforce it in California.

We Serve All California Counties

Whether your judgment is in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, Ventura, Kern County, Fresno, or anywhere else—we can help.

Turn Your Judgment Into Money

A judgment is only valuable if it results in payment. We help ensure that it does.

Contact Sari Law Firm today for experienced judgment enforcement representation.

FAQ

Q1: How long does a judgment last in California?

In California, a judgment is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Q2: Can a creditor garnish wages in California?

Yes. California allows wage garnishment through a court-ordered process until the judgment is fully paid.

Q3: Can a bank account be levied without notice?

Yes. In most cases, creditors may obtain a bank levy and freeze funds before the debtor is notified.

Q4: What if the debtor hides assets?

A creditor can request a Judgment Debtor Examination, subpoenas, and third-party financial records to locate hidden assets.

Q5: How do I enforce an out-of-state judgment in California?

You must domesticate the judgment under the California Sister State Money Judgment Act before enforcement.