What is Next?

Winning your case does not mean you will be paid right away. The court does not collect the money for you, and collecting takes time. It is easier to collect from a business than from an individual, and you will usually need information like the debtor’s bank account. The sections below explain your options.

If You Win: Collecting Your Judgment

  • •        The Court does not collect the money for you. You have to take action yourself.

    •        Your judgment is valid for 20 years, plus 9% annual interest (only 10 years if enforcing against a home or land, though it's renewable).

  • •        Try an online search, or check canceled checks the debtor gave you (bank info is on the back).

    •        Request DMV vehicle records for the debtor by mail.

    •        Search County Clerk property records.

    •        File an Information Subpoena ($2–3 fee from the Clerk): you send it (not the Clerk) by certified/registered mail; the debtor has 7 days to answer.

  • •        Hire an enforcement officer (sheriff, constable, or local police) — they can garnish wages, garnish a bank account, or seize and sell a car. You pay upfront fees plus about 5% “poundage” on what's collected.

    •        File a “transcript of judgment” with the County Clerk to place a lien on real property.

    •        Car-related judgment of $1,000+, unpaid for 15+ days: DMV can suspend the debtor's license/registration (DMV Form SR-60).

    •        Licensed business debtor: after 35 days of nonpayment, you can notify the relevant licensing agency, which may suspend or revoke their license.

    •        3 or more unpaid judgments against the same business debtor: you may be able to sue for triple (“treble”) damages.

If You Disagree: Appeals

  • The side that didn't show up can file a motion to reopen the case — this is different from a standard appeal

  • Either side (if not in default) can request a "trial de novo" before a judge, within 35 days of the mailing date, for a $75 fee.

  • Either side can appeal to a higher court within 30 days of the judgment (35 days if received by mail).

  • The decision cannot be appealed — it's binding.

  • Rarely. The higher court only checks whether the trial was basically fair, not whether there were technical mistakes.

  • A filing fee, plus the cost of a trial transcript. Ask about a fee waiver if you can't afford it.

  • Tompkins County Court.

  • Yes, unless you post a bond or deposit (an "undertaking") with the Court — otherwise the other side can still try to collect during your appeal.