What to do about a Judgment?

Business 4 views 2 answers
In February 2011, I had a judgment placed on me from the Dept. of Workforce Services for repaying food stamps. I argued with them for months because I informed them I was a full-time student and had no idea I couldn't get FS if I was. Now they called my Mom's work -- which is where I was a "Contractor" (I helped my Mom at work) wanting to know about my time there. The Lawyer talked to my Mother, and as soon as she said my name, my Mom told her it was a conflict of interest and she couldn't talk to her about it, and referred her to someone else. My problem is I don't know what to do about this Judgment, and I am in the market for a job (with 2 giant student loans to pay).

Attorney Answers

2
Graeme Abraham ·
There are only about three options for a judgement debtor being actively pursued by the creditor: (1) pay the debt through a voluntary repayment plan, (2) pray they never find out where you work or bank, or (3) file bankruptcy. Note, however, not all debts get discharged in a bankruptcy and they may or may not have a case against discharging this debt.
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Dane L HinesBankruptcy AttorneyProvo, UT ·
Whether this debt can be discharged in bankruptcy will depend on how they treated the overpayment in their claim against you. It sounds like they have already obtained a judgment. Did they also increase it or add a fine or penalty. Usually the addition of a fine portion indicates that they consider the overpayment your fault. The determination was made as part of an informal administrative Court decision. Court fines are not dischargeable, and they Department of Workforce services will object to the Discharge of the over payment if they believe it was due to incorrect information you gave when applying for benefits.
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