The Collection Process, Part 4: Examinations And Subpoenas To Debtor

Garnishing wages only works if you know where the money is. In Part 4 of our Collection Process series, we break down how an examination in aid of execution and a subpoena to debtor can force a judgment debtor to reveal their assets — under oath.

In our last three blog posts we talked about the most common methods of collecting from a judgment debtor. 

In each of those posts, however, there is some level of uncertainty with the collection methods: Garnishing is only effective if you know the bank account of the judgment debtor, for instance. 

So, how do you learn that information? 

There are two processes available: An examination in aid of execution, and a subpoena to debtor. 

An examination in aid of execution is, essentially, an interview of the judgment debtor. The judgment creditor (usually through their lawyer) asks the judgment debtor questions about their assets, ability to pay the judgment, other debts, and similar questions. The judgment debtor is under oath or