What can someone get in a default judgement in a civil case?

Question

What can a pliantiff get (in FL) that sued a defendant (in GA) in a civil case by default? They are wanting $50,000. I do not work nor own any land or property. I do not have anything of value other than my wedding ring set and their value is retail $1,800. I do have a 2001 car that is paid for and a checking account in my husbands name and mine. Should I put the car in my husbands name and the checking account? Can they touch either? Just what can they get and how?

Answer 1

After a plaintiff wins a judgment, whether by default or after a trial, the plaintiff may record the abstract of judgment in the property records of any county in the same state as the court.  With some extra effort, the "foreign judgment" may be recorded in any other state, with the authority to use that state's laws for collection.

It will almost certainly be included in your credit report.

If you have non-exempt property, that may be taken in satisfaction - or partial satisfaction - of the judgment debt.  Check with your attorney to determine what qualifies as non-exempt property.

The judgment may include court costs and interest, so the amount will increase the longer it remains unpaid.

Why does anyone let someone win a lawsuit by default?