Collecting Money from a Small Claims Judgment

If you sued someone for money and received a judgment against that person, you have the right to collect the money.

How Much Can I Collect?
You can collect the amount stated in your small claims judgment (form DC85) plus any interest that accumulates during the time the other party pays off the judgment.

How Can I Collect My Money?
There are several ways you can collect your money.

1.  If the other party (defendant) has the money and is present at the trial, s/he can pay you right then.

2.  If s/he does not have the money at that time and you both agree at the trial, the judge can set up a payment schedule.

If the defendant is not present at the trial, the court will send a copy of the small claims judgment to the defendant.  The judgment will order the defendant to pay you in full within 21 days or tell you and the court where s/he works and the locations of his/her bank accounts on form DC 87, Affidavit of Judgment Debtor.

3.  If the defendant doesn't pay the judgment as ordered, you will have to collect your money through an execution against property or a garnishment.