How to Collect a Judgment in Florida

The sheriff’s department will distribute the money in the following order:

1. The sheriff’s department will deduct their costs.
   • If the property sale covers those costs, you will get your deposit back.
2. The sheriff pays you $500 for your costs, regardless of the amount you actually spent.
3. If anyone else obtained a judgment lien against the debtor, the sheriff’s office will pay all of the creditors in the order their judgment liens were filed.
   • If the sheriff’s department disburses all of the money before getting to you, you will not receive any payment.
   • If there are no other judgment liens against the debtor, you will be paid first.
   • Remaining funds will be returned to the debtor.

How long is a judgment lien valid?

• A judgment lien is valid for 5 years.
• Florida law allows you to file a second judgment lien to extend the lien for an additional 5 years.

How do I get a judgment lien on the debtor’s real property?

File a certified copy of your judgment in the real estate records of the county in which the property is located.

• The lien is in effect for 10 years, and it can be renewed for an additional ten years.
• This type of lien is not filed with the Department of State.