Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in New York

Statue of limitations in NY

I have a joint account with a member of my family. Within the last week, I found out there is a judgement against the account in my family member's name, not mine. Is there any way I can get the money? Say for a hardship? All the money earned in that account is mine. My second query: What is the statue of limitations in NY for collections? I would appreciate any answers or insights you have on this matter. Thank you.


Asked on 8/25/04, 5:59 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kevin Connolly Kevin J. Connolly

Re: Statue of limitations in NY

The statute of limitations on an judgment is 20 years.

If the money in the account is 100% yours, then close it immediately and do not maintain a joint account with this person. Just be aware that when the creditor finds out about the account, you will be called upon to prove that the money is yours. It's simply easier to prevent the creditor from seizing the funds than to try to get it back after they levy on the account.

This post is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It is a comment on the legal question posed by the poster and should not be relied upon unless and until an attorney-client relationship is entered into. Doing so would require signing an engagement letter and depositing a retainer to secure payment of legal fees.

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Answered on 8/25/04, 6:02 pm


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