Can I be arrested or do jail time if I can’t pay a small claims judegement?
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Can I be arrested or do jail time if I can’t pay a small claims judegement?
The plaintiff is a debt collection agency and I don’t have a job, car or any property. How would they enforce the judgement if the defendant doesn’t have a job/money or any assets?
Asked on May 7, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, Massachusetts
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
You won't be arrested or go to jail for not being able to pay the judgment because this is a civil case, not a criminal case.
The plaintiff won't be able to enforce the judgment because you don't have an income or any property or other assets. You are judgment proof.
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