collecting on a judgment

[qlty1elect]

I have gone through small claims and received a judgment against a person I did a job for and refused to pay the balance of the agreed amount. I won in court hands down even his counter suit. I was awarded the amount in full plus any cost and also interest. what is my next step. Actualy I need to garnish his bank account. He is retired but owns differant properties. Of which one of that I did the work.

 

[jharris352]

I'm almost sure I answered this question and even provided a link to the garnishment process in Ohio. Was there a problem with my answer? What city are you in? I'll look up the clerk there.

 

[Michael Wechsler]

You need to first send a demand for payment. If that isn't satisifed, most small claims courts allow double or triple damages for nonpayment (yes, this is true.) At that point you may want to file a lien as well - your county clerk in the courthouse which you won your case can help you get the process started.

 

[jharris352]

Now that's one I have never heard.

 

[mightymoose]

I believe the court will allow interest to accrue... but tripling the judgment as a penalty is not on the menu.

I do believe that in some cases the amount may be increase as punitive damages as part of the initial judgment... but not as a penalty for non-payment.