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Civil Judgement
Anonymous3 views2 answers
In 1992 I was involved in and auto accident. I did not have insurance at the time - so of course I was at fault. I had a civil judgment for $3200.00 placed against me in 1992, and my driver’s license was suspended/revoked. A search of the Superior court records (Pima County AZ) on 11/28/08 shows the judgment 'expired' in 1997. And I cannot find anything saying that it was renewed. Do civil judgments expire? I have no idea if this has gone to collection, or is still valid. My real question is how do I go about getting my Drivers license back?
Yes, civil judgments do expire. The time-frame varies by state. In many states they are capable of being renewed. However, if yours had been renewed, it should also show in the public records. If the judgment has expired it probably is now uncollectible and unenforceable. To be sure, you should contact a local attorney.
Regarding your drivers' license, you can try contacting the Department of Motor Vehicles. This is an administrative process, they can tell you what they would require in order to reinstate your license.
Please note that I do not practice in your state. The above is not intended as legal advice.
Civil judgments are enforceable for five years after they are entered. A.R.S. s 12-1551(A). They must be renewed to be enforceable thereafter. A.R.S. s 12-1611, 12-1612, A.R.S. s 12-1551(B).
Check the records in the county where the judgment was recorded to see if an affidavit of renewal was filed.
Margery is correct; to get your driver's license back, contact the Motor Vehicle Division of the Arizona Department of Transportation and ask them about reapplying for your license.
This information is intended for general use only.
