Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in New York
Life of Judgements
I have judgements and liens from a failed business. All of the judgements are from 1985 and 1986. The liens are federal tax liens which have already expired. How do I know when the judgements expire? Did they expire after 10 years, or are they good for 20 years? Can a judgement be renewed, or once it expires is it gone forever.
Any information will be appreciated.
Thanks
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Life of Judgements
Commercial judgments are 10--personal are 20. Payments made on them renew their life.
Good Luck
Re: Life of Judgements
I disagree with Mr. Groezinger. My understanding is that judgments, regardless of their nature, are good for 20 years. If they were filed as a lien against real property the real property lien expires after 10 years, but remains as a general lien for 20 years. It can be renewed PRIOR to expiration by suing on the unexpired judgment.