What happens if a creditor wins judgement against me and I can’t afford to pay?
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What happens if a creditor wins judgement against me and I can’t afford to pay?
If the creditor wins judgement and I can’t afford to pay, what happens? Can I be arrested? I have only my personal belongings and less than $2,400 in the bank. I checked and in my state that amount is considered exempt in savings. Is there anything else they could try and come after like my personal belongings (computer, TV). Finally, could I be arrested for not showing up to the hearing?
Asked on June 16, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Please relax and take a deep breath. I can tell that you are very upset about this all. These are tough times and it is surely a difficult thing to go through. First, you will not be arrested. This is not a criminal proceeding; it is a civil proceeding. Now, I know that it is scary but it is always better to go to the proceeding and to ask to speak with a mediator or judge to try and negotiate the debt down to payments you can make. If a judgement is obtained they can go against personal items. You might want to speak with a debt consultant as to your options. Good luck.
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