When individuals in Ohio and elsewhere find themselves facing dire financial straits, now more than ever they may rely on their paychecks to make a suitable living. Dealing with a debt collector can be stressful enough as it is, and the threat of having a portion of one’s wages withheld during times of financial concern can be significant. Those who face similar issues may wish to protect against such undesirable consequences, but they might be uncertain how to achieve this goal.
With collection letters and multiple phone calls coming in nearly every day, dealing with the burdens of debt can be a daunting experience. However, those who are confronted with the possibility of wage garnishment may face additional concerns. While one may be able to prevent a similar outcome by being proactive with debts or attempting to negotiate with creditors, for someone who is already struggling to meet monetary obligations, this could prove to be a challenging task.
Before a creditor can pursue repayment through wage garnishment, it must generally win a judgment against a debtor and obtain a court order. However, for certain debts, such as unpaid child support, creditors might not need a court order to begin garnishing one’s wages. One may also be able to appeal an order to withhold wages, but he or she may need assistance in the process.
Dealing with a debt collector can be a daunting experience, and wage garnishment can have a substantial impact on a person’s life. Those who face similar concerns could choose to consult with a bankruptcy attorney for guidance on the available options for relief. An attorney in Ohio can address the client’s situation and assist in forming a strategy to pursue relief from debts and safeguard his or her financial future.
Source: USA Today, “Dealing with debt: Understanding wage garnishment and how to avoid it“, James Agnew, April 12, 2018
