Legal Question in Consumer Law in California

How do I collect on a Small Claims court ruling?

I took my former land lord to court because they refused to refund me the deposit I had given them. I went to Small Claims court and the judge ruled in my favor. This was over one year ago. What should I do now? I have sent this person certified mail requesting the payment, but have gotten no response. I read somewhere that I could sue for the three times the amount for punitive damages, is that correct?


Asked on 6/15/01, 7:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roy Hoffman Law Offices of Roy A. Hoffman

Re: How do I collect on a Small Claims court ruling?

Probably not. You do, however, need to collect your judgment. The first thing you need to to is record what is called an Abstract of Judgment with each county recorder in which the landlord owns real property. Next, you should get a copy of Nolo Press' book on how to collect judgments.

If you know what bank your landlord uses, it is possible to levy on any accounts he has. The Nolo book will help with this. Don't forget, that judgments in California are valid for 10 years, can be renewed for 10 years (for a total of 20 years), and allow you to charge 10% per annum simple interest on the amount of the judgment.

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Answered on 6/28/01, 4:11 pm


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