Collection Litigation and Judgment Enforcement

Enforcing and collecting on judgments won through arbitration and litigation
Man Reading Debt Collection Form with Pen Poised

Collection Litigation and Judgment Enforcement in Pennsylvania

The experienced collection litigation attorneys at Gross McGinley, LLP in Allentown, Pennsylvania, help clients with all phases of debt collection and judgment enforcement. Our attorneys understand the frustration of trying to collect an unpaid debt and how it takes time away from important tasks that require your attention. Our team strives to give you peace of mind, knowing you can count on us to represent your interests and help you collect what you’re owed.

What to know about debt collection and judgment enforcement litigation:

What are my options for debt collection and judgment enforcement?

Which types of debt collection cases do you handle?

Will your litigation attorneys negotiate with debtors before filing a lawsuit?

What are the benefits of mediation and arbitration?

What can I expect if a debt collection case goes to trial?

How are funds from a judgment award recovered?

Can the attorneys at Gross McGinley assist with other types of legal matters?

     

 

Assessing Debt Collection Litigation Options

State and federal laws surrounding debt collection are complex. It’s critical to have a knowledgeable civil litigation attorney evaluate your situation and advise you of your options. Whether it’s a personal or business debt you’re trying to collect, the most effective course of action depends on a number of factors. Our experienced collection litigation lawyers thoroughly assess all aspects of your circumstances and advise you of which options may best fit your needs.

     

 

Common Types of Debt

Common types of delinquent consumer debt include credit cards, medical bills, auto loans, personal loans, student loans, and unpaid utility bills. Businesses that are mismanaged or fall on hard times may default on business loans, lines of credit, equipment financing, and lease agreements, and may fail to pay vendors or suppliers.

Our team of collection and judgment enforcement attorneys at Gross McGinley, LLP is well-versed in handling these types of cases and more. We ensure all collection actions comply with the law and important deadlines and procedures are followed.

     

 

Debt Collection Negotiations

In many cases, it may be best to negotiate the settlement of debt before filing a lawsuit to collect it. For example, if a debtor does not have income or assets that are readily attachable, negotiating a partial settlement or agreeing to take payments over time may be more effective than pursuing a civil action in court.

A well-written demand letter outlining the debt that’s owed and when payment is due lets a debtor know you are serious about collecting it. It may prompt them to pay and you won’t even be necessary to negotiate or pursue further actions such as arbitration or filing a lawsuit.

     

 

Alternative Dispute Resolution

Settling a dispute through mediation or arbitration is usually less costly and time-consuming that suing a debtor. When you pursue a claim through arbitration, you agree to have your case heard by a qualified arbitrator out of court. Typically, decisions reached through arbitration are binding just like those issued by a court.

     

 

Collection Litigation

Sometimes the only way to collect a debt is to file a civil lawsuit against the debtor. Our collection litigation lawyers identify all possible defendants and name them in the lawsuit. In some cases, it’s still possible to reach a settlement agreement at this point. However, if a settlement isn’t feasible, the case goes to trial, where a judge or a jury decides if the defendant is liable to the creditor.

Our dedicated attorneys are seasoned litigators who stay abreast of the latest developments in collection litigation and business law. At Gross McGinley, LLP we take pride in being diligent and thorough and working tirelessly to provide the best possible outcomes for all our clients.

     

 

Judgment Enforcement and Asset Recovery

Obtaining a judgment against a debtor doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll receive payment. We have an array of legal tools available to help clients collect post-litigation awards, including:

Bank levies – This legal action allows creditors to freeze bank accounts and collect payments from those accounts to collect a debt.

Wage garnishment – We help creditors with the legal process for collecting funds from a debtor’s paycheck until the awarded amount has been paid off.

Depositions – In a deposition, a debtor must answer questions under oath. Our Allentown civil litigation attorneys know the right questions to ask to uncover assets and identify their locations.

Liens – Placing a lien on a debtor’s real or personal property can enable creditors to receive proceeds from the sale of the property to satisfy a judgment.  

Seizures and writs of execution – Our collection litigation attorneys work with local sheriffs to seize a debtor’s property or assets to satisfy a judgment.

Pursuit of fraudulent transfers – If a debtor attempts to hide assets by transferring them to a third party, a creditor may be entitled to file a lawsuit and obtain a judgment against the person or organization that received the assets.

Sometimes, traditional legal strategies fail to collect awarded judgments. Our litigation attorneys may instead recommend creating a forbearance agreement. This agreement requires a debtor to execute a new promissory note and provide collateral and a personal guarantee of repayment.

     

 

Other Legal Services We Offer

The teams of attorneys and legal professionals at Gross McGinley, LLP work collaboratively to provide personalized services with integrity, compassion, and respect. Our full-service law firm offers legal services in the following areas of the law:

Family law – Whether you need assistance with divorce, child custody, support, pre- or post-nuptial agreements, or adoption, our caring, competent team is here for you.

Litigation – Our litigation attorneys handle cases involving federal, commercial, and construction litigation, mediation, arbitration, and more.

Estate planning – It’s never too early to create an estate plan that protects your assets and preserves your family’s interests. Our attorneys are well-versed in matters such as elder law, estate administration, drafting wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

Criminal law – Whether you’re facing charges for a drug offense, DUI, assault, or white-collar crime, our experienced criminal defense lawyers can help.  

Business law – Our seasoned business attorneys help organizations of all sizes across multiple industries with business entity formation, liquor licensing, litigation, intellectual property law, and more.

Employment law – In today’s world, it’s critical to avoid putting your business at risk due to issues with employees. Our attorneys help you navigate human resources and employment matters and minimize risk.

Real Estate – From commercial real estate transactions to zoning, deed, and title issues, our experienced real estate lawyers have you covered.

Our experienced team also handles matters such as sports law, tax law, municipal law, and more.

Contact A Collection Litigation Attorney In Allentown

Since 1976, Gross McGinley, LLP has provided professional, forward-thinking legal services to clients in Allentown, PA. To learn more about collection litigation, judgment enforcement, and other services we offer, contact us online or call us at 610-820-5450 today. 

Collection Litigation and Judgment Enforcement Team

View Profile

Leana Anderson

Paralegal
View Profile

Trisha Billig

Paralegal
View Profile Gross McGinley Allentown Law Firm Samuel E. Cohen

Samuel E. Cohen

Partner
View Profile

Zachary R. Fowler

Partner
View Profile Gross McGinley Allentown Law Firm Attorney Anne K. Manley

Anne K. Manley

Partner
View Profile

Alexander O. Ward

Associate

Frequently Asked Questions

Gross McGinley is a full-service law firm, providing legal guidance for both personal and professional needs. Please visit our services page to learn more!

Since 1976, we’ve been serving individuals, businesses, and communities through the greater Lehigh Valley. Learn more about us.

 

 

Group legal insurance plans are fast-growing employer benefits. Several employers have established relationships with Gross McGinley – simply inquire about your specific legal plan to see if yours is accepted.

Yes, Gross McGinley accepts credit card payments via our website, over the phone, or in-person. Our Billing team will provide you with assistance in making a payment.   

Our firm accommodates in-person meetings and virtual appointments. Please advise of your communication preferences when you speak with your attorney.

Certain services, like document signings and notarizations, may require your in-person presence.

    Have questions? Need to speak to someone about your legal needs? We're here to help.





    I agree to receive electronic marketing communications from Gross McGinley, LLP.