Newlywed Newbie

**NAVIGATED** · 03.30.2005, 11:21

I am a newbie and I have found some great stuff here. I have a pressing problem that I am hoping someone can provide some insight to.

I have a civil judgment that was awarded by default because I did not show up...I ignored the letters and phone calls.

I am a widower that has remarried 2 weeks ago and my new wife and I would like to sell my home and get a bigger house. The judgment is keeping us from selling our existing house.

I wish I had found this site 2 years ago.

Thank you!

**pd11604** · 03.30.2005, 11:32

You need to look for grounds to have the judgment vacated if possible.
otherwise, have your spouse try qualifying for a mortgage without you.

**NAVIGATED** · 03.30.2005, 11:34

Any suggestions on what to look for?

Or a specialist to look over the court documents?

Thanks

**ontrack** · 03.30.2005, 11:36

What is the amount of money involved? How does that compare to the value to you in selling your old home and buying a new home, or the cost of contesting, with some likelyhood of losing anyway?

**NAVIGATED** · 03.30.2005, 11:39

The judgement is for 35k plus legal fees and interest (about 43k) I have about 45k equity in my house so to sell it would be a wash...we have discussed renting it and waiting out the judgement...Does it go away after 7 years?

**pd11604** · 03.30.2005, 12:10

Originally posted by NAVIGATED
...Does it go away after 7 years?...

Yes and no.
Yes, it will be off your report in 7 years from the date satisfied (not filed) (maybe even after 5 years in certain states)
but it will still be available for up to 10 years on those same reports if they are requested in connection with a security clearance, an employment offer where the salary exceeds $75k, or a mortgage / money loan that exceeds $150k

**NAVIGATED** · 03.30.2005, 12:17

OUCH!

What would you do?

**Butch** · 04.02.2005, 22:00

Hi Nav.

Welcome to the board.

Whenever a "judgement" is entered it is usually deficient in some respect. There are several common mistakes which can cause a judgement to be voided. The favorite, around here anyway, is lack of proper service.

However, since the amount is so large, and property is involved it's probably best for us to recommend the services of an atty.

Your issue is beyond the scope of this board.

:)