How do I collect a UD money judgment?

Wage garnishment (the most common), bank levy, property lien, abstract of judgment recorded against the debtor's real property. ORAP examination (judgment debtor examination) compels the debtor to disclose assets.

How long does a judgment last?

10 years under California law. Renewable for additional 10-year periods if filed before expiration. Interest accrues at 10% simple per year (Civil Code §3287).

Is wage garnishment available?

Yes. Up to 25% of disposable income (or the amount by which weekly income exceeds 40x California minimum wage, whichever is less). Subject to debtor exemption claims.

What about debtor exemptions?

California provides extensive judgment-creditor exemptions: homestead, retirement accounts, ERISA funds, public benefits, certain bank account amounts. Debtor files claim of exemption; creditor opposes if grounds exist.

What is an ORAP examination?

Order for Appearance and Examination (CCP §708.110) — compels the judgment debtor to appear and answer questions under oath about assets and income. Useful for identifying garnishment and levy targets.

Wage garnishment · Bank levy · ORAP

Money judgment from a UD. 10 years to collect.

Wage garnishment is the highest-return path for most cases. Bank levy if you know the bank. Real-property lien if the debtor owns. ORAP exam to find assets.

TL;DR

Collection methods: wage garnishment (up to 25% disposable income), bank levy, abstract of judgment recorded as real-property lien, ORAP examination to find assets. Judgment lasts 10 years, renewable. 10% simple interest accrues.

Enforcing Money Judgment
Eviction Cost

Common questions — money judgment collection

Collection methods?

Garnishment, levy, lien, ORAP exam.

Judgment lifespan?

10 years, renewable. 10% simple interest.

Wage garnishment?

Up to 25% of disposable income.

Exemptions?

Homestead, retirement, ERISA, public benefits.

ORAP?

CCP §708.110 debtor examination under oath.