Small Claims Matters (Post-Judgment)

Now that the court has awarded you a judgment, remember it will not automatically collect the award for you.

If the other party voluntarily returns the property and/or pays you the money that you were awarded in the judgment, go to Satisfactions of Judgments & Liens to complete the final phase of your Small Claims action.

If the other party does not voluntarily return the property and/or pay you the money that you were awarded, review the below options depending on the type of award granted. The flow chart within the Basic Guide to Wisconsin Small Claims Actions is an additional useful tool to understanding your options.

In All Cases - The Judgment must be docketed in the Civil Court office in all cases if you plan to pursue the money and/or property.

Collecting a Return of Property (Replevin) - Only the property portion of a small claims judgment.

Collecting a Money Judgment - Any type of small claims case when a party is ordered to pay the other a sum of money.

Earnings Garnishment - Have the Money Judgment Collected from the Debtor's paycheck.

Non-Earnings Garnishment - Have the Money Judgment Collected from an income source other than the debtor's paycheck.

Execution Against Property - Have the other party's property seized, sold, and the proceeds paid to you to cover the judgment.