Can You Remove a 20-Year-Old Judgment for a Vehicle Repo in Louisiana?

Question from Alisha, Can You Remove a 20-Year-Old Judgment for a Vehicle Repo in Louisiana?

Answer from AI:

If you have a judgment against you from 20 years ago related to a vehicle repossession in Louisiana, you might be wondering if there’s a way to get it removed. Here’s a general explanation of the steps and considerations involved.

Understanding Judgments in Louisiana

A judgment is a court’s final decision regarding the rights and obligations of the parties in a case. In Louisiana, judgments can have long-lasting effects, including impacting your credit score and ability to obtain loans.

Statute of Limitations

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for enforcing a judgment is generally 10 years from the date the judgment was rendered. However, creditors can renew the judgment before it expires, extending its enforceability for another 10 years.

• Initial Period: 10 years from the date of the judgment.
• Renewal: Creditors can renew the judgment for another 10 years.

If the judgment has not been renewed within the 10-year period, it may no longer be enforceable. You can check the status of the judgment by contacting the court where it was issued.

Steps to Remove an Old Judgment

If the judgment is still enforceable, here are some steps you might consider:

1. Check Court Records: Verify the status of the judgment with the court. Ensure it has not been renewed.
2. Negotiate with the Creditor: Sometimes, creditors may agree to settle the debt for a lesser amount or agree to remove the judgment if you pay the debt.
3. File a Motion to Vacate: If there were procedural errors or you were not properly served, you might be able to file a motion to vacate the judgment.
4. Bankruptcy: In some cases, filing for bankruptcy can discharge certain judgments, but this is a complex process and should be discussed with a bankruptcy attorney.

Legal Advice and Resources

Given the complexity of dealing with old judgments, it is often advisable to consult with a legal professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

• Louisiana State Bar Association – Find Legal Help
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – What is a Judgment?

Conclusion

While it is possible to address a 20-year-old judgment, the specific steps and likelihood of success depend on various factors, including whether the judgment has been renewed and the specifics of your case. Consulting with a legal professional is crucial to navigate this process effectively.