Judgments in Minnesota: What You Need to Know

A judgment is a court order saying you legally owe a debt. It happens when:

  • You don’t respond to a lawsuit (default judgment), or

  • The court rules in the creditor’s favor after a hearing or trial.

In Minnesota, judgments typically last 10 years, and creditors can renew them every ten years. During that time, interest and fees can add up—turning a small balance into a much bigger problem.

Why Judgments Matter

A judgment gives creditors powerful collection tools, including the ability to:

  • Garnish your wages (up to 25% of your paycheck in most cases)

  • Freeze or seize funds directly from your bank account

  • Place liens on your home or other real estate

Judgments also appear in the public record, making it harder to borrow money, refinance, or buy property.

Can a Judgment Be Challenged?

Yes. Depending on your situation, you may be able to:

  • Vacate (undo) the judgment if you were never properly served or if you have a valid legal defense

  • Reduce or stop garnishment by using exemptions or negotiating with the creditor

  • Protect assets from seizure under Minnesota exemption laws

  • Negotiate a settlement that resolves the judgment on fairer terms

How We Help

At Friedman Murray, we work with Minnesotans facing judgments, garnishments, and liens. Our clients are people who:

  • Act quickly once they discover a judgment

  • Provide us with court papers, garnishment notices, and pay stubs right away

  • Are realistic about options and open to advice

  • Want an experienced attorney—not “internet defenses” or gimmicks

We offer flat fees for most judgment and debt defense cases, so you know exactly what to expect:

  • Settlement-only representation: about $1,000

  • Vacating the judgment: about $3,500

Related Topics

Take Action Now

If you’ve just discovered a judgment against you, time matters. The sooner you act, the more options you may have.

In Minnesota and ready to talk to a lawyer about a judgment?
Schedule a consult with debt defense lawyer Todd Murray.

Since 2009, Todd has helped hundreds of Minnesotans get out of debt. His work has saved his clients millions of dollars (and many sleepless nights) in the process. Todd’s clients have described him as “very professional and easy to work with.” He lives in Minneapolis with his wife and four children.