Going to court can be scary and unnerving, be when you’re summoned, it’s important that you meet the challenge head-on. 

Civil court cases make up some of the busiest matters in the judicial system, as they have risen by 3% recently. Win or lose, there are potentially huge repercussions in play with these cases. 

What is a civil case? When do liens come into play? We can clear up this information and more. 

The tips below will help you out when you need to know more about judgment liens, what they are, and how they affect your civil case.

  1. Understand Judgment Liens and What They Mean

First, you should get to know civil cases and what they entail. 

A civil case example might include being sued by your landlord, an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) lawsuit, personal injury lawsuits, and others. 

Understanding the civil case definition will help you take the next steps after judgment has been rendered. 

So, what is a civil judgement?

The courts will hear your case and decide whether you owe the other party money or not. If you do, the other party has the right to file a judgment lien, which allows them to take hold of your assets, money, or property. 

  1. Get To Know How Judgment Liens Come About

Next, you should understand how judgment liens happen. A party can only find a lien against you if a judgment is officially filed in court. 

Even after a judgment is passed, you’ll have time and the right to file an appeal. If you fail to file for an appeal within the window, the court judgment will hold up and the other party has the right to come after you for the amount owed. 

In most cases, they’ll try to work out a payment plan or a way for you to settle your debt. If this doesn’t work, they may file to garnish your wages or to take out a judgment lien against you. 

They can take personal property, vehicles, real estate, and other assets to satisfy this debt. 

  1. Learn What You Can Do to Respond

Take the time to find a civil lawyer that specializes in liens. They can contest the lien or have it removed altogether once one is filed. 

Make certain that the lawyer you hire is American Bar Association (ABA) certified, and currently licensed to practice in civil cases. 

These professionals may be able to open lines of communication with the other party as well, to come up with a payment plan or other arrangement. If you intend to pay, the lawyer can help you get the lien removed so that you don’t have to worry about future assets being seized. 

Find the Legal Help That You Need in Your Legal Case

Judgment liens don’t have to be the end-all, be-all with your legal case. Knowing your legal rights will help you take action so that you can protect yourself. 

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