How Do I Collect My Judgement?

[Shaquetta Chittams]

I was awarded a judgement and I don't expect to be paid. I called my bank to see what institution the check I wrote cleared with and they told me it was cashed at my bank. Does anyone have experience with collecting a judgement in the state of Maryland? 

[Matthew Kreitzer]

Originally posted by @Shaquetta Chittams:

@Matthew Kreitzer It's only $600. I would hate to have to give up a percentage just to track this person down. Do you still recommend using a debt collection service for $600?

 I do; collecting on a Judgment involves locating the individual through skip tracing, obtaining appropriate service of process, locating that person's assets through interrogatories, and filing the appropriate writs of execution. Collection is not an easy process. My recommendation would be to make sure you incorporate an "attorneys fees" provision into your future leases, which allow you to pass the costs onto the tenant. 

However, you will ultimately have to ask yourself whether giving up 100-200$ to obtain $400 is worth it, when you will likely be unable to do this on your own at all.

DISCLAIMER: I am not licensed in your jurisdiction. You should talk with a local attorney if you want guidance for your state.