A warrant in debt is a legal document that is issued by a court, typically as a result of a civil lawsuit. It is used to collect a debt that is owed to the person who filed the lawsuit, also known as the creditor. The warrant in debt orders the person who owes the debt, also known as the debtor, to pay the debt within a specific period of time.

How is a Warrant in Debt Served?

When a warrant in debt is issued, the debtor will typically be served with the document by a law enforcement officer. The debtor will then have a set amount of time to respond to the warrant, which is usually 20-30 days. If the debtor does not respond or does not pay the debt, the creditor can take further legal action to collect the debt.

What are the Consequences of Ignoring a Warrant in Debt?

One of the most common legal actions that a creditor can take is to garnish the debtor's wages. This means that a portion of the debtor's wages will be withheld by the debtor's employer and sent directly to the creditor to pay off the debt. A creditor can also seize the debtor's property, such as a car or a house, and sell it to pay off the debt.

It's worth noting that the debtor has a right to request a hearing before the court. This is known as a trial de novo in which the debtor may present evidence, call witnesses and make arguments to dispute the debt or the amount claimed by the creditor.

What Should You Do if Served with a Warrant in Debt?

A warrant in debt is a serious matter and should not be ignored. If you are served with a warrant in debt, it is important to take immediate action to respond to the warrant. You may want to consider seeking legal advice from an attorney who can help you understand your rights and options.

Conclusion

A warrant in debt is a legal document that is issued by a court to collect a debt that is owed to a creditor. It orders the debtor to pay the debt within a specific period of time. If the debtor does not respond or does not pay the debt, the creditor can take further legal action to collect the debt such as garnishing the debtor's wages or seizing the debtor's property. The debtor has the right to request a hearing before the court and may present evidence and make arguments to dispute the debt. It is important to seek legal advice if you have been served with a warrant in debt.