Collections

Muskegon, MI

Expert Debt Collection Attorneys in Muskegon, MI

Is your business struggling to collect on unpaid invoices? Are late payments impacting your cash flow and profitability? Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices is here to help. We offer comprehensive collection services in Muskegon, Michigan, designed to take the burden off your shoulders and maximize your chances of recovery.

Helping Your Business Recover What It’s Owed

Outstanding debts can disrupt your cash flow, hinder growth, and create unnecessary headaches. That’s why efficient debt recovery is important. Let our seasoned debt collection attorneys help you quickly and effectively recover what you’re owed so you can focus on what matters most – growing your business. 

Understanding Debt Collection in Michigan 

Debt collection involves a legal process where creditors attempt to recover unpaid debts from individuals or businesses. If you are a creditor seeking to collect a debt, it is essential to understand your rights and obligations under Michigan law. Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices is here to simplify the process for you.

Small Claims Court

If you’re dealing with a debt under $7,000, Small Claims Court is the quickest and most cost-effective option. The court allows individuals and businesses to handle minor disputes without the need for extensive legal proceedings. You can easily initiate the process by filling out the required forms. While you can represent yourself in Small Claims Court, having professional guidance from a competent Muskegon lawyer can help ensure everything is handled correctly.

District and Circuit Courts

For debts over $7,000, the process moves to District or Circuit Courts, depending on the amount in question. District Court handles cases between $7,000 and $25,000, while Circuit Court deals with debts exceeding $25,000. Both courts have more formal procedures, and if you’re a corporation or LLC, Michigan law requires you to have legal representation. Our experienced attorneys are ready to advocate for your business, ensuring your case is presented effectively in either of these courts.

Our Approach to Debt Collection

Judgment Process

Obtaining a judgment against a debtor is a critical step in debt collection. A judgment legally confirms that the debtor owes you money and gives you the authority to enforce collection, even if the debtor is uncooperative. It empowers you to take further action to recover the debt, including wage garnishments, bank levies, or placing liens on the debtor’s property. With our help, you can put your business in a strong position to recover its debts.

Long-Term Protection

In Michigan, a judgment lasts for ten years and can be renewed, giving you extended security and the ability to enforce payment over time. It means that even if a debtor is unable to pay immediately, you have the legal means to pursue the debt over an extended period. Our collection services in Muskegon, MI, guarantee that your business remains protected, no matter how long it takes to recover the debt.

Turning Judgment Into Money

Securing a judgment is just the first step; turning that judgment into actual money is where the real work begins. Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices specializes in converting judgments into tangible debt recovery. We use every legal tool available to ensure your business gets paid. With our expertise in collection services, you can trust that we’ll do everything possible to help your business recover what it’s owed.

Our Collections Services

Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices offers a comprehensive range of collection services, designed to meet your specific needs and help you recover the money you’re owed. Our local Muskegon attorneys can provide you with personalized attention and effective representation throughout the entire debt collection process.

Small Claims Court Filing

If your debt falls under the Small Claims Court threshold, our skilled Muskegon lawyers can assist you with preparing and filing your claim, representing you in court if necessary, and ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.

District and Circuit Court Representation

For larger debts requiring litigation in District or Circuit Court, our Muskegon attorneys provide comprehensive legal representation. We’ll handle all aspects of your case, from preparing and filing the lawsuit to negotiating settlements and enforcing judgments.

Judgment Enforcement

Once a judgment is obtained, we don’t stop there. We utilize various legal tools and strategies to enforce judgments and compel debtors to pay what they owe. We take the necessary actions to guarantee the judgment translates into actual payment.

Post-Judgment Collections Strategies

Even after a judgment is secured, debtors might attempt to evade collection. We employ a range of post-judgment collection strategies, including asset investigation and contempt proceedings, to hold debtors accountable for their obligations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the steps to file a debt collection case in Michigan?

Filing a debt collection case in Michigan begins with determining the appropriate Muskegon court based on the amount owed. Once the correct court is identified, the process involves filing the necessary paperwork, serving the debtor with a summons, and preparing for a hearing. 

How long does the collection process typically take?

The length of the collection process can vary depending on several factors, including the court’s schedule, the debtor’s cooperation, and whether the case goes to trial. Small Claims Court cases can be resolved within a few months, while District and Circuit Court cases might take longer, especially if the debtor contests the claim. 

What are the costs involved in pursuing debt collection?

The costs of pursuing debt collection can include court filing fees, service of process fees, and attorney fees if you’re using legal representation. In some cases, these costs can be added to the original debt owed, making the debtor responsible for covering them.

 What happens if the debtor refuses to pay after a judgment?

If the debtor refuses to pay even after a judgment has been issued, you have several options available to enforce the judgment and collect the debt. These include wage garnishment, bank account levies, property liens, and even seizing assets.

Let Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices Handle Your Debt Collection

If you’re having trouble collecting debts, Bowen Hoogstra Law Offices is here to help you turn the situation around. Our goal is to ensure that your debt collection efforts are successful, providing you with the financial relief and stability you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. It’s time to put unpaid debts behind you and move your business forward.