Foreign Judgment Registration Process

The Foreign Judgment Registration Process allows you to enforce a judgment obtained in another state or country under the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution and the Uniform Enforcement of Foreign Judgments Act (UEFJA).

Understanding the Purpose of Judgment Registration

When a judgment is entered in one jurisdiction, it does not automatically carry legal force in another. Through the registration process, a creditor can have the judgment recognized and enforced by local courts as if it were issued there. This ensures continuity, uniformity, and lawful enforcement across state lines or international boundaries.

Steps to Register a Foreign Judgment

• Obtain a certified copy of the original judgment.
• File the judgment with the clerk of court in the new jurisdiction.
• Provide notice to the debtor of the filing.
• Wait the statutory period before enforcement begins (usually 30 days).
• Once registered, you may use all local enforcement remedies such as liens or garnishments.

Legal Foundation

The Uniform Enforcement of Foreign Judgments Act (UEFJA) provides the framework allowing judgments from other U.S. states to be filed and enforced easily. For international judgments, registration may be based on treaties, reciprocity, or comity between nations.

Always ensure that your filing complies with local procedural requirements. Members can access step-by-step templates and guidance inside the Private Members Area.