Time is Ticking: A Practical Guide to Renewing Your Judgment

 In California, when a money judgment is granted, it doesn’t last forever. If you're a judgment creditor, it's crucial to understand that your ability to enforce a judgment has a deadline. The risk of losing your collection rights increases as the years pass—unless you take timely action. This is where the renewal of judgment becomes a vital tool. This practical guide walks you through the essential steps of renewing a judgment and how to avoid pitfalls, especially when dealing with a notice of renewal of judgment.



Why Renewal of Judgment Is Critical?

In California, judgments are enforceable for 10 years from the date they are entered. Once that time elapses, a judgment becomes unenforceable unless it is renewed. Renewing the judgment resets the enforceability period, allowing creditors to continue collection efforts, such as wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens.

Without a renewal of judgment, a judgment creditor may lose all rights to collect, essentially giving the debtor a free pass. It's a small procedural step with a massive impact on your financial recovery efforts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Renewal of Judgment in California:

Here’s a comprehensive roadmap to help judgment creditors understand and execute the renewal process efficiently.

Step 1: Track Your Judgment Expiration Date

Mark your calendar well in advance—judgments expire after 10 years unless renewed. You can file for renewal any time before the 10-year mark, but ideally, it should be done at least a few months in advance to allow for processing.

Step 2: Complete the Required Forms

To start the process, you'll need to fill out the following forms:

  • Application for and Renewal of Judgment (Form EJ-190)

  • Notice of Renewal of Judgment (Form EJ-195)

These forms are essential for notifying the court and the judgment debtor that the creditor intends to extend the judgment’s enforceability.

Step 3: File with the Court

Submit your completed forms to the same California Superior Court that originally issued the judgment. Many courts now offer e-filing options, which are faster and more efficient than traditional paper filing.

Step 4: Serve the Notice to the Debtor

After filing, you must serve the Notice of Renewal of Judgment on the judgment debtor. This can be done via first-class mail by a non-party adult (someone over 18 who is not part of the case). Service must occur within 5 years of the renewal for it to remain valid.

What Happens After Filing a Renewal?

Once you've successfully filed for a renewal of judgment, the judgment is valid for another 10 years from the renewal date. You can continue your enforcement efforts, or even initiate new ones if you haven’t yet collected on the judgment.

However, the notice of renewal of judgment can trigger legal action from the debtor. They may contest the renewal if they believe the judgment is no longer valid or that it has already been satisfied. That’s why accuracy in filing and serving the notice is critical.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Here are some key mistakes judgment creditors should avoid:

  • Waiting Too Long: If the 10-year period expires without a renewal, the judgment becomes dormant.

  • Incorrect Service: Not serving the notice properly can invalidate the renewal.

  • Incomplete Paperwork: Any errors in the forms can lead to rejection by the court.

Why Work with Countrywide Process?

Renewing a judgment may sound simple, but any misstep can cost you the ability to collect your funds. That’s where the Countrywide Process comes in. Based in California, Countrywide Process offers professional legal support services, including:

Our experienced team ensures that your renewal process is handled swiftly and in full compliance with California law. We handle the filings, confirm court procedures, and ensure proper service so you can focus on recovering what you’re owed.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you're a creditor, a law firm, or a business with a judgment on the books, understanding the timeline and process of judgment renewal is essential. The notice of renewal of judgment is not just a formality—it's your legal anchor in the ongoing effort to enforce justice and recover debts.

Let Countrywide Process be your trusted partner in navigating California’s legal system. With the right guidance, tools, and timing, you won’t miss your second chance.

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