How Long Does a Judgment Last in California? Or, "Is My Victory Eternal?"
So, you've finally won your case. Justice has prevailed, the scales have balanced, and you're feeling like a legal rockstar. But wait, there's a catch (there's always a catch, isn't there?). Your sweet taste of victory might not be forever. Let's dive into the murky waters of judgment expiration.
The Ten-Year Itch
In the magical land of California, a judgment typically has a lifespan of ten years. Yes, you read that right. Ten years. After that, it's like it never existed. Poof! Gone. So, if you're planning on basking in the glow of your victory for longer than a decade, you might want to rethink your strategy.
But fear not, there's a glimmer of hope. You can actually extend this glorious ten-year period. It's like hitting the snooze button on your judgment expiration alarm. By filing a renewal before the ten years are up, you can buy yourself another decade of legal bliss. Just remember, it's not a permanent vacation. You'll have to keep hitting that snooze button every ten years.
The Fine Print
Now, before you start planning your victory lap, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the clock starts ticking from the day the judgment is entered. So, mark your calendar, set a reminder, or hire a personal assistant to nag you about it. Second, while you can renew your judgment, there's a cooldown period. You can't just keep renewing it every year. There's a five-year gap between renewals. So, plan accordingly.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you're the kind of person who lives life on the edge and tends to forget important dates (like your judgment expiration), don't panic just yet. There might still be a way to revive your judgment. It involves filing a new lawsuit, but it's definitely doable. Think of it as a legal resurrection.
Remember: While I've tried to keep things light and breezy, the world of law can be complex. It's always a good idea to consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
How-To Questions
- How to calculate the expiration date of my judgment? Add ten years to the date the judgment was entered.
- How to renew a judgment in California? File an Application for Renewal of Judgment (EJ-190) and Notice of Renewal of Judgment (EJ-195) with the court before the ten-year mark.
- How to collect on an expired judgment? You might be able to file a new lawsuit, but consult with an attorney.
- How to prevent a judgment from expiring? Set a reminder for ten years after the judgment date and file for renewal before then.
- How to determine if a judgment is still valid? Check the court records for a renewal.