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Guide to Have Someone Buy Your Judgment | Half Dome Capital
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The Ultimate Guide to Have Someone
Buy Your Judgment
(Updated for 2025)​

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Your judgment was a significant victory, but it does not guarantee payment from the debtor. Unfortunately, many judgment holders find themselves struggling to collect what they are owed, facing delays, complications, and outright noncompliance.

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Since courts do not enforce payments, the responsibility of collection falls entirely on you—a process that can be both time-consuming and complex. As a result, many judgments remain unpaid, leaving creditors searching for alternative solutions.

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So, what are your options? Can you sell your judgment? Are there companies that purchase judgments? This guide explores the key question: Will someone buy my judgment?​

Agreement to Sell a Judgment

Who Buys Judgments?

There are professionals who specialize in buying and enforcing judgments. These include:

  • Private investors pay you cash up front for your judgment.

  • Judgment collection agencies enforce judgments and pay you after they collect. 

  • Debt recovery firms enforce judgments and pay you after they collect.

 

Judgment buyers buy judgments at a discount to the value of the judgment. This gives you an immediate solution to your problem. and gives them an opportunity to profit.

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Judgment buyers typically prefer judgments that are easier to collect, such as those against debtors who have:

  • Significant assets, especially real estate.

  • Steady income, especially as an employee rather than business owner.

  • No outstanding liens or bankruptcies

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Why Do People Buy Judgments?

Here are advantages of buying judgment with a single transaction upfront.

  • Judgment Buyers do not have to share possible recoveries made.

  • They have the freedom of recovering the debt at the pace that suits them.

  • They are accepted as self-represented litigants in court.

  • Buying a judgment makes it possible to collect the debt slowly, which may be the judgment buyer’s preference.

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Cash for a Judgment

How Much Will A Judgment Buyer Pay For My Judgment?

Judgment buyers will not pay you the full value of your judgment. Instead, they offer a percentage based on how collectible it is. Typical purchase rates vary:

  • 1% to 3% of the judgment’s value if collection is difficult (debtor has no assets, moves frequently, etc.).

  • 5% to 10% if the debtor has a stable financial situation with assets or strong income.

  • 10% to 15% if the debtor is financially strong and also owns real estate.

  • 15% to 20% if the debtor owns a home with significant equity or owns multiple properties.
     

    • Also, when valuing a judgment, buyers assess factors such as:

  • Age of the judgment (newer judgments are easier to collect)

  • Debtor’s financial condition

  • Whether the debtor has declared bankruptcy

  • The amount of the judgment

  • Whether the judgment debtor actively defended themselves in the case​​

    • How to Find Judgment Buyers

    1. Online Search: Use search engines to find judgment buyers in your state. Look for companies with a good reputation and positive reviews.

    2. Referrals: Ask your attorney, financial advisor, or other professionals if they know of any reputable judgment buyers.

    3. Judgment Marketplaces: Explore online platforms that connect judgment sellers with potential buyers (e.g., JudgmentMarketplace.com).

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    Questions to Ask a Judgment Buyer

    • How long have you been in business?

    • What is your track record of collecting judgments?

    • What percentage of the judgment amount are you offering?

    • What fees or expenses will I be responsible for?

    • What happens if you are unable to collect the full judgment amount?

    • Can I see a sample purchase agreement?

    • Do you have references from past clients?

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    Red Flags to Watch Out For

    • Upfront Fees: Reputable judgment buyers don't charge upfront fees.

    • Guaranteed Full Payment: Be wary of buyers who promise to pay you the full judgment amount upfront.

    • Pressure Tactics: Don't be pressured into making a quick decision.

    • Unclear Contracts: If the contract is confusing or contains vague language, be cautious.

    • Lack of Transparency: If the buyer is unwilling to answer your questions or provide references, it's a red flag.

    Three Steps to Sell to a Judgment Buyer

    Step 1: Verify the Buyer

    Before selling your judgment, research potential buyers:

    • Do they have positive reviews and a solid track record?

    • Are they experienced in judgment collection?

    • Do they offer a clear, straightforward contract?

    Step 2: Secure a Purchase Offer

    Once you find a qualified buyer, they will evaluate your judgment and present an offer. If you accept, they will provide a purchase agreement outlining the sale terms.

    Step 3: Transfer the Judgment

    After signing the agreement, you will officially assign the judgment to the buyer. The buyer then records the assignment with the court, completing the transfer of ownership.

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    Protect Yourself from Unscrupulous Buyers​

    A reputable buyer will pay you with verifiable funds when you sign the transfer documents. It’s standard practice to involve a trusted third party—such as a notary public, attorney, or escrow company—to ensure a secure transaction.

    Pros & Cons of Selling a Judgment

    Pros and Cons of Selling a Judgment

    Pros:

    • Immediate cash instead of waiting months or years to collect

    • No stress of tracking down debtors or enforcing the judgment

    • No legal costs or collection expenses

    Cons:

    • You won’t receive the full amount owed

    • Some buyers may offer very low prices, so it’s important to shop around

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    Judgment Brokers: A Helpful Alternative

    If you’re unsure which buyer to choose, a judgment broker can help. These professionals match judgment sellers with the most suitable buyers. Good judgment brokers:

    • Have a database of verified buyers

    • Don’t require upfront fees

    • Provide clear explanations of the selling process

    Be wary of brokers who demand paperwork before explaining their process or ask you to assign the judgment without reason.

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    Final Thoughts

    If collecting your judgment seems like an uphill battle, selling it can be a practical solution. While you won’t recover the full amount, you can at least get cash in hand and move on.

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    Take the time to research buyers, compare offers, and read contracts carefully. The sooner you act, the better your chances of finding a buyer willing to offer a fair price for your judgment.

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    By selling your judgment to a reputable buyer, you can avoid the hassle of collection and finally get paid for your legal victory.

    Judgment Value
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