Abstract of Judgment — Contra Costa California Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to provide you with a detailed description of the process and requirements for obtaining an Abstract of Judgment in Contra Costa County, California. An Abstract of Judgment is an official document that is obtained from the court to enforce a judgment against a debtor. It acts as a lien on the debtor's property and can be recorded with the county recorder's office to have a public record of the debt. The document creates a legal claim against the debtor's property and can be used as a means of repayment. There are two primary types of Abstract of Judgment in Contra Costa County, California: 1. Civil Abstract of Judgment: This type of Abstract of Judgment is filed when a judgment is awarded in a civil lawsuit. It is typically used to record and enforce a money judgment against the debtor's property. To obtain a Civil Abstract of Judgment, you need to follow the below steps: a) Obtain a certified copy of the judgment from the court where the judgment was entered. b) Complete an ABSTRACT OF JUDGMENT form, which can be downloaded from the Contra Costa County Courts' official website or obtained in person. c) Include all necessary information, such as the names of the judgment creditor (the party owed money) and judgment debtor (the person who owes the money), the case number, the court name, and the judgment amount. d) Sign the form before a notary public. 2. Family Law Abstract of Judgment: This type of Abstract of Judgment is filed when a judgment is awarded in a family law case, such as divorce or child support. It allows the judgment creditor to claim an interest in the debtor's property. The process to obtain a Family Law Abstract of Judgment is similar to the Civil Abstract of Judgment. However, it is important to note that specific forms and procedures are required for family law cases. It is advisable to consult with a family law attorney or the court clerk for proper guidance. After completing the necessary forms, you must file the Abstract of Judgment with the Contra Costa County Superior Court Clerk's Office, Civil Division. A filing fee is required, which may vary based on the judgment amount. Once the Abstract of Judgment is filed, you may need to take additional steps to enforce it, such as recording it with the county recorder's office or seeking the assistance of a collections' agency. It is essential to consult with an attorney or seek legal advice for specific instructions related to your case, as the process may vary depending on the circumstances. Please note that the information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with the specific requirements and procedures of Contra Costa County, California. Sincerely, [Your Name]