Minnesota Judgment: Types, Records, Duration, and What to Expect

A judgment is an official court ruling that decides a conflict and determines the rights and obligations of the parties. Judgments in Minnesota often arise from civil lawsuits, real property disputes, debt collection, or criminal restitution. A judgment becomes legally enforceable once entered and can result in negative credit reporting or wage garnishment.

What Is a Judgment in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, the definition is provided in the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 54.01. A judgment is defined as a decree and the final decision regarding the rights of the parties involved in a proceeding. It may require an individual to stop certain actions or to pay an amount of money to a creditor. Once recorded, a judgment has legal authority and can be collected through remedies like levies, garnishments, and liens.

For instance, a creditor may obtain a judgment requesting a debtor to pay an outstanding debt. Also, a judgment can establish the financial obligations in matters like child support or spouse maintenance. Until they expire, judgments in Minnesota may continue to impact a debtor’s finances and property ownership.

Types of Judgments in Minnesota

Minnesota courts may issue different types of judgments depending on the nature of the case. The authority for these judgments is outlined in the Minnesota Statutes and the Minnesota Rules of Civil Procedure.

1. Money Judgment (Minn. Stat § 548.09)

This is the most common type of judgment that requires one party to pay a specific amount of money to another party. The common examples of money judgments are Orders for Restitution for criminal cases and Orders for Judgment from Conciliation Court.

2. Default Judgment (Minnesota Rule of Civil Procedure, Rule 55)

A default judgment occurs when a defendant fails to respond to a lawsuit or misses a court appearance. It means that the plaintiff wins by default because no defense was presented.

3. Declaratory Judgment (Minn. Stat. § 555)

This is a formal court ruling that clarifies the duties and legal relationships of the parties without necessarily ordering money damages.

4. Order of Restitution (Minn. Stat. § 611A.04)

An order of restitution is a court ruling that requires a person convicted of a crime to compensate the victim for financial losses related to the criminal offense.

How to Search for Judgments in Minnesota

As part of Minnesota public records, anyone can find judgment records through:

1. Court Administrators’ Offices – Each District Court keeps judgment records through the Court Administrator’s Office. Anyone can request the certified copies of a judgment at the Administrator’s Office for a small fee.
2. Minnesota Court Records Online (MCRO): This is an online application that offers online access to Minnesota District Court records. Through this portal, users can search for judgment details by entering the debtor’s name.
3. Third-Party Services – While the MCRO portal and District Court Clerks are the official sources for judgment records, individuals can also use third-party websites that compile publicly available records.

When searching for judgment records, record seekers may find the following information:

• Case number
• Names of the parties involved
• Court location
• Judgment date
• The amount owed or relief ordered

Judgment Records in Major Minnesota Counties

Although Minnesota has a centralized court system, the way records are accessed can vary by county:

• Minneapolis (Hennepin County): The Hennepin County District Court is the busiest court in the state. Judgment records can be accessed online through the MCRO portal or by contacting the Court Administrator’s Office.
• St. Paul (Ramsey County): Ramsey County judgments can be requested in person at the Court Administrator’s Office or viewed online through the MCRO portal.
• Duluth (St. Louis County): St. Louis County provides access to judgment records through the MCRO portal and in person at the courthouse.

The statewide MCRO portalis the primary tool for conducting online searches, while certified documents must be obtained from local courts.

How Long Does a Judgment Last in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, a judgment is valid for 10 years from the date it is entered, as provided in Minn. Stat. § 541.04. During this time, a creditor may docket and collect the judgment through levies, liens, or garnishments. If the judgment is not satisfied within the 10-year period, it must be renewed before it expires. To renew, a creditor must begin a new lawsuit by using the Starting a Civil Case in District Court packet.

What Happens After a Judgment Is Entered in Minnesota?

Once a judgment is recorded, the creditors have the authority to collect the judgment. Debtors, however, must fulfill the legal and financial obligations.

For Creditors:

• Wage Garnishment: Until the judgment is satisfied, creditors can request a court order requiring employers to withhold part of the debtor’s wages.
• Judgment Liens: Creditors may record a legal claim on a debtor’s property until the debt is paid.
• Bank Levies: Funds can be seized directly from a debtor’s bank account with an approval from the court.

For Debtors:

• Credit Reporting: A debtor may be restricted from borrowing if a judgment appears on their credit report.
• Satisfaction of Judgment: This is the legal document that confirms that a debt is paid. It helps to clear a judgment from the debtor’s credit report.
• Appeals or Motions to Vacate: The debtor can appeal for a judgment to be vacated if they believe that it was unfair.