Justice of the Peace Colorado County Precinct 3
You Got a Judgment—Now What? How to Collect While Considering Bankruptcy Options
If you’ve successfully won a judgment against a debtor in Justice of the Peace Colorado County Precinct 3, your work isn’t done yet. Collecting on that judgment can be a challenging process. As a debtor’s attorney with over 25 years of experience and 4,000 bankruptcy cases filed in the Southern District of Texas, I’m here to provide insight into how you can enforce your judgment while also exploring options for debt relief.
Justice of the Peace Colorado County Precinct 3, presided over by Honorable Donald J. Clark, handles civil matters where the amount in controversy does not exceed $10,000, excluding interest. This court also deals with eviction cases, enforcement of deed restrictions, and small claims. If you’ve secured a judgment, the next step is understanding how to collect.
Collections Through Legal Means
Here are the main tools available for collecting your judgment:
Abstract of Judgment
An abstract creates a lien on non-exempt real property owned by the debtor in the county where the abstract is recorded. This is a critical step if you believe the debtor owns real estate.
Writ of Execution
A writ allows law enforcement to seize non-exempt property, such as vehicles or other assets, to satisfy the judgment. If successful, seized property is auctioned to cover the owed amount.
Writ of Garnishment
This powerful tool targets the debtor’s bank accounts. A writ of garnishment freezes the debtor’s funds, preventing them from withdrawing money while you collect the judgment. However, wages cannot be garnished under Texas law.
Turnover Writ
This process may allow you to collect non-exempt personal property, tax refunds, or other assets after a court hearing.
Challenges of Collection and How Bankruptcy Can Help Debtors
While creditors have tools to enforce judgments, debtors may feel trapped by the prospect of asset seizure or bank account garnishment. Bankruptcy provides a legal solution that protects assets and offers a fresh start.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
This eliminates unsecured debts like credit card balances, medical bills, and judgments. Filing automatically halts collection efforts through the automatic stay.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
For those who wish to retain assets, Chapter 13 reorganizes debt into manageable payments over 3–5 years.
Logistics of Filing or Collecting in Justice of the Peace Colorado County Precinct 3
- Venue: Ensure your case is filed in the proper precinct based on where the incident occurred or the defendant resides.
- Representation: Both individuals and corporations may represent themselves in Justice Court.
- No Written Record: These courts are not “courts of record,” so appeals must be carefully documented.
Our Firm’s Expertise in Debt Relief and Bankruptcy
For over 20 years, our firm has helped thousands of clients in Colorado County and surrounding areas, from Alleyton to Weimar, resolve their debt issues and move forward. Whether you’re trying to collect a judgment or need relief from overwhelming debt, we provide tailored solutions.
