How Long Does a Judgment Last in Florida? Your Complete Guide
Florida judgments can last up to 20 years and may be renewed indefinitely through new lawsuits. Your best strategy is avoiding judgments by responding to debt collection lawsuits within 20 days. If you already have a judgment, paying it off quickly helps you rebuild your credit faster.
Answer Your LawsuitIn Florida, few things cast a shadow like a court judgment. A judgment gives debt collectors power over your property and finances. But how long will it hang over your head?
Florida judgments can last up to 20 years. Creditors can even renew them indefinitely. Here’s everything you need to know about judgments in Florida.
Respond to Your Florida Lawsuit in 20 Days
You have only 20 days to file your Answer and avoid default judgment. Every day you wait puts your property and wages at risk. Get help responding now.
File Your AnswerWhat Does a Judgment Entail?
Only a court can establish a judgment against you. Judgments result when creditors or debt collectors sue you for unpaid debt. If the court rules against you, creditors gain certain rights.
A judgment allows creditors to:
- Seize or sell your property to cover the debt
- Garnish your wages over time to repay the debt
- Garnish your bank account to pay off the debt
The court might issue a Stipulated Judgment instead. You can settle your debt for less than the full amount. Your debt collector may agree to a repayment plan. Expect to pay interest on payment plans.
How Long Does a Judgment Last in Florida?
According to Florida Statute §55.081, judgments are enforceable for up to 20 years. Judgment liens against property are valid for 10 years. Creditors must renew the lien for another 10 years to reach the full 20-year period.
Florida doesn’t allow direct renewal of the 20-year judgment. Creditors must file a new lawsuit on the original judgment. If they win, the 20-year limit restarts. Judgments can last indefinitely if courts continue siding with creditors.
You need to act fast to protect yourself. The consequences of ignoring a judgment can follow you for decades.
Avoid Judgments by Responding to Debt Collection Lawsuits
Once you have a judgment, your options shrink dramatically. Your best strategy is avoiding the judgment altogether. Our partner Solo can help you respond quickly and effectively.
The moment you receive notice of a debt collection lawsuit, you must act. An Answer is a legal response indicating your willingness to contest the lawsuit. Florida courts give you just 20 days to respond.
Missing this deadline is costly. The court could render a default judgment in your creditor’s favor. But filing an Answer buys you time to develop a strategy. You can negotiate and settle out of court.
Example: Jenny received notice of a lawsuit from a debt collection agency. She acted within the 20-day window and filed her Answer. She avoided a default judgment and gained time to negotiate a lower settlement.
Speed matters when you’re facing a lawsuit. Every day counts toward your deadline.
What Do I Do If I Have a Judgment Against Me?
You can’t always control lawsuit outcomes. If you have a judgment against you in Florida, consider these options carefully.
Pay Off Your Judgment
Paying off the debt quickly is your best option. The faster you pay, the sooner you rebuild your credit score. Paying in one lump sum helps you avoid interest charges.
You might be able to set up a payment plan. Make sure your creditor files a Satisfaction of Judgment with the clerk’s office. If they fail to do so, the court may award you money.
File for Bankruptcy
Filing bankruptcy may be necessary if you can’t pay. Bankruptcy protects your most important assets from seizure. Florida Statute §222.01 lets you exempt unlimited equity in your home.
Consider this a last resort option. Bankruptcy marks your credit for up to 10 years. Your other assets may not be protected from seizure.
Wait Out Your Judgment
Eventually, the judgment against you will expire. Waiting carries some serious risks though.
You’ll keep accruing interest on the debt. Some creditors wait until you have resources, then come after you again. Florida’s 20-year active period is extremely long. Courts may side with your creditor and extend it even longer.
Paying your debt and moving on is usually better. The sooner you eliminate this debt, the faster you rebuild your credit.
Protect Yourself From Future Judgments
Florida residents face lengthy judgment enforcement periods. Prevention is your best defense. Respond to lawsuits within 20 days. File your Answer promptly.
If you already have a judgment, pay it down quickly. Don’t let decades of financial burden hold you back. You can rebuild your credit and move forward with your life.
Take action today to protect your financial future. The clock is already ticking.