Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Georgia
I'm in Georgia and being taken to Small Claims General Civil Court in Gwinnett County, Ga. How binding is a judgment against me and does the state assist in collection? http://www.gwinnettcourts.com/#casedetail/case:09-m-22251/
2 Answers from Attorneys
A judgment in small claims court is just as binding as in any other court. Once issued a creditor can garnishee your wages and bank accounts, has a lien on your home, and can seize your car and personal property. Once you lose the only way to stop them is usually bankruptcy. You need to see a lawyer before the judgment as your options may be more plentiful before.
If there is a judgment against you, you can appeal if there are grounds. If the plaintiff is successful, garnishment and asset liens may be sources for satisfying the judgment. If you don't have a defense in the matter, you may want to negotiate a settlement before the hearing.