Find bank information to complete garnishment?

Question

Hi BiggerPockets at Large!

Looking for help / how to find information to aid in collection on money.

I've had a contractor disappear with my deposit money.  I've completed Justice Court (small claims) in Mississippi and won by default (no show by defendant/contractor).

I'm trying to find is bank account number to complete the garnishment for collection of amounts owed to me.  I've requested the information from my bank and I do know what bank he uses but I don't have his account number.

Is there a search tool that anyone has used before? Or any advice that you can share?

Any opinions would be most welcome. Thanks so much!

Bob B. · Answer

I'd send it without account numbers.  The bank can find the accounts.

Cathryn Bankhead · Answer

Thanks Bob, my court strongly advises account numbers on garnishnents. I did the research request through my bank and got the bank name but not account number. It's a process but we're moving onward.

Bob B. · Answer

@Cathryn Bankhead  Check with the small claims clerk that handles garnishments.  Some courts do not require you to use an account number.  Also, using an account number will limit you to only that account.  If you paid him with a check and he deposited it, the account number might be stamped on the endorsement or elsewhere.  If he owns any property file the judgment with the county court and maybe one day when he tries to sell it you'll get paid. You don't need a PI or Collection company.  How much money is your judgment for?

Cathryn Bankhead · Answer

Thanks so much for the reply. I actually found a researcher who works for attorneys typically.  And his cost is going to be $80 much cheaper than going through an attorney.

A PI would have been a great idea. My other idea was going to be a collection company asking for the information only.

Good luck all!

Catherine Emert · Answer

Have you tried hiring a PI? A lot of times it's a simple search that will only cost a could hundred to do.