A Shift from Helping Debtors to Advocating for Creditors
For over 25 years, I represented debtors, filing more than 4,000 Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. Now, I exclusively represent creditors in recovering judgments and enforcing their rights. My experience in debtor law equips me with valuable insights into the defense strategies used in Justice of the Peace courts, allowing me to offer effective legal representation to creditors.
About Justice of the Peace Galveston County Precinct 3
Justice of the Peace Galveston County Precinct 3, presided over by Honorable Judge Billy Williams, Jr., is located at 600 59th St., 1st Floor, Galveston, TX. This court handles civil matters with claims up to $10,000, excluding interest.
The court’s jurisdiction includes:
- Small Claims: For monetary disputes only, up to $10,000.
- Justice Court Suits: Money damages, property possession, and lien enforcement.
- Evictions: Residential eviction cases.
The court follows the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure and Texas Rules of Evidence, ensuring fairness and adherence to legal standards.
Filing a Lawsuit in Justice of the Peace Galveston County Precinct 3
Venue and Jurisdiction
- Venue: File in the appropriate precinct based on the defendant’s location or where the property in question is situated.
- Jurisdiction: Cases must involve disputes of $10,000 or less, excluding interest.
Accurate Identification of Parties
- Plaintiff: Clearly name the individual(s) or entity filing the lawsuit.
- Defendant: Ensure the defendant is named correctly, whether as an individual, proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.
The Legal Process After Filing
- Service of Citation:
Citations are issued by the court and served by the sheriff or constable. Ensure accurate addresses for timely service. - Defendant’s Answer:
The defendant must file a written answer by the Monday following 10 days after service. - Discovery and Trial Preparation:
Tools such as interrogatories, requests for admissions, and subpoenas can be used to gather evidence with the court’s approval. - Trial:
If the defendant answers, the trial is set at least 45 days after the filing. Ensure all documents and witnesses are ready.
Enforcing Judgments in Precinct 3
Available Tools for Judgment Recovery
- Abstract of Judgment: File in any county where the debtor owns property to create a lien.
- Writ of Execution: Authorizes the seizure and sale of non-exempt property.
- Writ of Garnishment: Allows creditors to access bank accounts but excludes wages.
- Turnover Writ: Requires a court hearing for the turnover of non-exempt property or tax refunds.
Why Creditors Choose Me
As a former debtor attorney, I understand the strategies debtors use to avoid payments. I now leverage this knowledge to assist creditors in effectively:
- Filing enforceable claims.
- Addressing debtor defenses.
- Navigating complex collection processes in Justice of the Peace courts.
Areas of Service
I represent creditors in Galveston County, including cities such as Bayou Vista, Clear Lake Shores, Dickinson, Friendswood, Galveston, Hitchcock, and League City. I also handle cases in surrounding counties like Brazoria, Chambers, Austin, and Harris.
Contact Me for Expert Creditor Representation
If you’re a creditor seeking to collect a judgment or enforce your rights in Justice of the Peace Galveston County Precinct 3, contact me today. With extensive experience and a deep understanding of debtor strategies, I am dedicated to securing the results you deserve.
