postjudgment

Postjudgment describes actions or conditions that occur after a court has entered a judgment in a civil action. The term is used across common law jurisdictions, notably in the United States. It encompasses enforcement, relief from the judgment, and ancillary issues that arise once a decision is final.

Postjudgment remedies are the steps a prevailing party may take to collect or enforce the judgment. These can include writs of execution against the debtor’s property, garnishment of wages or bank accounts, attachment or levy on assets, turnover orders, and the placement of liens. The availability, scope, and limits of these remedies vary by jurisdiction and may be subject to exemptions designed to protect basic household resources or income.

Postjudgment relief refers to motions to modify, vacate, or set aside a judgment after it has been entered. Common mechanisms include relief from judgment under Rule 60(b) in federal courts or equivalent rules in other systems. Grounds may include clerical mistakes, excusable neglect, newly discovered evidence, fraud, or the judgment being void. Some systems also permit a party to seek a new trial or reconsideration if substantial errors affected the outcome. Time limits are typically strict and jurisdiction-specific.

Postjudgment interest is the interest that accrues on the judgment amount after entry until full satisfaction. Rates are usually statutory or contract-based and can differ by jurisdiction. Costs and attorneys’ fees may be recovered as provided by statute or the judgment itself.

In practice, postjudgment matters address both ensuring payment and providing mechanisms to challenge or refine the judgment within applicable rules and deadlines.