Los Angeles Wage Garnishment Lawyer

Protecting Your Paycheck and Financial Future from Debt Collection Lawsuits

If you are facing the threat of wage garnishment due to a debt collection lawsuit, it’s time to speak with a skilled Los Angeles wage garnishment attorney. At Fitzgerald & Campbell, we help clients across Los Angeles County protect their income, assert their legal rights, and resolve debts through effective legal strategies. Wage garnishment can have a devastating impact on your finances, but you do have options. Whether you’re just being sued, already have a judgment against you, or want to explore alternatives like bankruptcy or settlement, our team is ready to help.

If you’ve been sued by a creditor or your wages are being garnished, don’t wait. Contact us today at (844) 431-3851 to speak with a trusted Los Angeles wage garnishment attorney.

How Creditors Collect Debt from Consumers

When a consumer falls behind on payments—whether it’s a credit card, medical bill, personal loan, or private student loan—creditors and debt collectors can use several legal tools to recover the money:

• Collection Calls and Letters – This is typically the first step. Debt collectors contact you persistently to demand payment.
• Debt Collection Lawsuit – If payment is not made, the creditor may sue you in civil court.
• Default Judgment – If you fail to respond or lose the lawsuit, the court may issue a judgment in favor of the creditor.
• Enforcement of Judgment – Once the creditor has a judgment, they can enforce it through wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens.

Many people don’t realize they’ve been sued until their paycheck is suddenly reduced. Having a Los Angeles wage garnishment lawyer involved early can help you avoid or minimize the worst outcomes.

What is Wage Garnishment?

Wage garnishment is a legal process that allows a creditor to take a portion of your paycheck directly from your employer to repay a debt. In California, this typically occurs after a court judgment is entered against you in a debt collection lawsuit.

Here are key facts about wage garnishment in Los Angeles:

• Limit on Garnished Wages: Under California law, creditors can take the lesser of 25% of your disposable earnings or the amount by which your weekly wages exceed 40 times the state minimum wage.
• Judicial Process Required: Most creditors (except certain government entities) must sue and win in court before garnishment begins.
• Notice and Opportunity to Respond: You will receive a “Notice of Wage Garnishment” and have the right to object or file a claim of exemption.

How to Avoid Wage Garnishment

Facing a collection lawsuit doesn’t mean wage garnishment is inevitable. There are several legal and strategic options to prevent garnishment or stop it once it begins:

• Respond to the Lawsuit: Ignoring a debt collection lawsuit almost guarantees a judgment. By responding properly, you can raise defenses, challenge the debt, or settle before garnishment is ordered.
• Negotiate a Settlement: Many creditors are willing to accept less than the full amount owed if you offer a lump-sum or structured payment plan. This can prevent a judgment and wage garnishment entirely.
• File a Claim of Exemption: If your wages are low or you support dependents, you may be able to file a claim of exemption to reduce or stop garnishment. An attorney can guide you through this paperwork-intensive process.
• Vacate a Default Judgment: If you were never properly served or missed a court date for a valid reason, a lawyer may be able to file a motion to vacate the judgment—effectively erasing the basis for the garnishment.
• Bankruptcy Protection: In some cases, filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy can immediately stop wage garnishment through an automatic stay. Your attorney can help determine whether bankruptcy is the right choice.

FAQs About Wage Garnishment in Collection Lawsuits in Los Angeles, CA

Can all types of creditors garnish my wages in California?

No. Only creditors who have obtained a court judgment against you can garnish wages, with exceptions for things like child support, tax debts, and federal student loans, which don’t always require a lawsuit.

How will I know if my wages are about to be garnished?

You will receive a Notice of Wage Garnishment from the levying officer and/or your employer. This gives you time (typically 10 days) to object or file a claim of exemption.

Can I stop wage garnishment after it has started?

Yes, in many cases. You may be able to negotiate with the creditor, file a claim of exemption, or challenge the underlying judgment with help from a wage garnishment lawyer in Los Angeles.

Will my employer fire me for having a wage garnishment?

Under California law, your employer cannot fire you because of a single wage garnishment. However, multiple garnishments may increase the risk. It’s best to address the situation early.

Can I negotiate a lower garnishment amount?

While the garnishment formula is set by law, you can negotiate with the creditor outside of court for an alternate payment plan or settlement that may reduce your burden.

Why Hire Our Firm?

At Fitzgerald & Campbell, we are dedicated to helping individuals throughout Los Angeles County navigate the stressful and confusing world of debt collection lawsuits. Our legal team has:

• Deep knowledge of California debt collection laws
• Experience defending clients in collection lawsuits
• A strong track record of stopping or reducing garnishments
• Flexible, affordable payment options to get you back on track

You don’t have to face wage garnishment alone. We’re here to protect your paycheck, your rights, and your peace of mind.

By reaching out to us at (844) 431-3851, you’re taking a crucial step towards relieving stress and securing a more stable financial future.