How to Collect a Judgment in New York
Winning a lawsuit is only half the battle. If the person or business that owes you money refuses to pay, your court judgment is just a legal right until enforcement begins. New York law gives creditors tools to pursue recovery, and Antero Stone handles the enforcement process on a contingency basis. No upfront cost. No risk.
Understand What a Judgment Means
Step 1 - Understand What a Judgment Means
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A judgment is a court order confirming that a debtor legally owes money. It can arise from contract disputes, lease disputes, property damage claims, and other civil actions. A judgment does not mean payment happens automatically; it means you now have legal enforcement rights.
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Step 2 - Locate the Debtor's Assets
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Before enforcement begins, we investigate employment, bank relationships, real property, business interests, and other public-record leads to determine whether the file is collectible and which enforcement tools make economic sense.
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Step 3 - Select the Right Enforcement Tool
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New York collection tools may include income execution, bank restraints and levies, property execution, and information subpoenas. The right tool depends on the assets identified, case economics, and procedural posture. Any wage garnishment description should state that it is subject to applicable limits and exemptions under CPLR § 5231.
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Step 4 - Collect and Close
Once funds are recovered, proceeds are disbursed after deducting the applicable contingency fee. If nothing is collected, no fee is owed.
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How Long Does It Take?
Timing varies significantly by the debtor's asset profile, third-party response times, court and sheriff processes, and the remedies pursued. No specific timeline can be guaranteed.
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How Much Does It Cost?
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Nothing upfront. Antero Stone works on contingency. If nothing is collected, you owe nothing.