PART FOUR COLLECTIONS AND EXEMPTIONS
A Judgment is an order from the court saying that you owe the plaintiff money. If you have money/assets, the creditor has the right to collect from you. If you have no money, no bank account, no income, no house, no investments and no valuables, there is probably nothing the creditor can take from you. 6/9/20162
Wage Garnishment (up to 25% of monthly net) Bank Account Levy: take the money out of some kinds of accounts. Lien on house/land/building, if debtor owns real estate. 6/9/20163
Abstract of Judgment ◦ Record with the County Wage Garnishment ◦ Employer’s Name & Address Bank Account Levy Central Levy Department Sheriff’s Keeper Rent Levy Other (Less Practical) Methods
Amount Needed to Support Debtor & Family Social Security direct deposit accounts Public benefits SSI and SSP 75% of wages Many pensions ◦ If you earn more than $2,250/month in social security retirement benefits, some of that may be available for garnishment. 6/9/20165
Exemptions Current Dollar Amounts of Exemptions
Staff Attorney (Civil & Small Claims Advisor) Santa Cruz Superior Court Self Help Center 1 Second Street, Room 301 Watsonville, CA (831)