Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Pennsylvania

Losing end of civil suit, what are my options, can i be arrested?

Long story short,my roommate sued me for backrent. Claimed I owed $3000.00, I lost. According to the constable I can either pay in full by the end of next week to HIM, or set up payment arrangements with HER. He informed me I CAN NOT make a payment plan through the court,JP,whatever.

My problem is, she won't let me pay in payments she wants it in full in a week. I have no money at all.I make $7 an hour and own NOTHING,and am currently living in my parents basement on an old matteress.

Is what the constable said true?Is that the only way to pay these things?I have nothing i own that they could seize and my bank account is empty.Can I be arrested if i refuse to pay?Is there any other way to make payment arrangement besides through her?

Please help me here, I'm begging.


Asked on 1/28/05, 10:05 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles A. Pascal, Jr. Law Office of Charles A. Pascal, Jr.

Re: Losing end of civil suit, what are my options, can i be arrested?

In addition to what Atty. Johns said...the judgment isn't effective until 30 days after the hearing in front of the district justice. This allows you time to appeal. You cannot go to jail for a private debt.

Read more
Answered on 1/29/05, 1:39 pm
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Losing end of civil suit, what are my options, can i be arrested?

You cannot be arrested for owing a private debt. Also, in Pennsylvania wages are generally not garnishable. You are entitled to certain statutory exemptions if the constable is enforcing a writ of execution. I offer free consultations.

Read more
Answered on 1/28/05, 10:14 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More General Civil Litigation questions and answers in Pennsylvania