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1. What Is a civil judgment?

A civil judgment refers to a noncriminal legal matter. It is a decision by a court, or other tribunal, that resolves a controversy between parties. Civil judgments are recorded in the County's official records.

2. What is a civil action?

A civil action is a non-criminal case in which one private individual or business sues another person or business.

3. What is the difference between County Civil and Circuit Civil?

County Civil Court has jurisdiction in cases greater than $5,000 and up to $15,000. Circuit Civil Court has jurisdiction in cases greater than $15,000.

4. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

5. What is a civil Complaint?

A Civil Complaint is a legal document that usually begins a civil lawsuit. It states the alleged facts and identifies the action the court is asked to take.

6. What is a civil Counterclaim?

A civil Counterclaim is a claim made by the defendant in a civil lawsuit against the plaintiff. In essence, a counter lawsuit within a lawsuit. 

7. What is the difference between a subpoena and a summons?

A subpoena is a command to a person to appear and testify in a specific proceeding.  A summons is a document signed by a deputy clerk ordering a person to appear before the court. 

8. What is a Writ of Garnishment?

A writ of garnishment is an order that allows a creditor to seize money owed to the judgment debtor by third parties

9. What is a Writ of Replevin?

A Writ of Replevin is an order to recover personal property that has been wrongful taken or detained.