Collection
The separate steps you take to turn an unpaid judgment into actual money.
Enforcement · Garnishment · Levy
The court decides; it does not collect for you. If nothing is paid you go back with a further form: an order asking about their income and property, a deduction from wages, or a levy on a bank account.
Each step has its own form and often its own fee, which is usually added to what they owe.
Related words
Common questions
- What does collection mean in small claims court?
- The separate steps you take to turn an unpaid judgment into actual money. The court decides; it does not collect for you. If nothing is paid you go back with a further form: an order asking about their income and property, a deduction from wages, or a levy on a bank account.
- What does judgment mean in small claims court?
- The court's written decision, including how much, if anything, is to be paid. A judgment is a decision, not money in your hand. It says the other side owes you an amount, and often adds the filing fee and service costs on top.
- What does default judgment mean in small claims court?
- A decision in your favour because the other side was served and did not turn up. The judge still wants to see that the papers were served properly and that your figures add up. A default is not automatic.
- What does appeal mean in small claims court?
- Asking a higher court to look at the decision again, within a short deadline. The deadline is measured in days from when the court sends out notice of the decision, and it is short. Several states let only the side that was claimed against appeal.
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
Verified on 2026-09-06, sources:
FairSquare assembles documents and explains your court's rules. It is not a substitute for advice about your situation.