Missing a court date can have serious consequences, including a default judgment. In Washington State, when you don’t appear or respond to a lawsuit, the court may rule in favor of the other party by default. This judgment can lead to wage garnishments, liens on your property, or other financial penalties. However, you may still have legal options to reverse the judgment and protect your interests.

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help clients vacate default judgments and navigate the legal system with confidence. If you’ve missed a court date, acting quickly is crucial. Here’s what you need to know about default judgments and how to respond.

What Is a Default Judgments?

A default judgment occurs when one party in a lawsuit fails to appear in court or respond to the complaint. This allows the other party to win the case automatically. Even if you had a valid defense, the court assumes that you do not contest the claims if you don’t show up.

Once a default judgment is entered, the opposing party can take steps to collect on the judgment, which may include garnishing your wages, freezing your bank accounts, or placing liens on your property. These enforcement measures can have a significant impact on your finances and assets.

Steps to Vacate a Default Judgment in Washington

Although a default judgment may feel like the end of the road, there are legal steps you can take to vacate (cancel) the judgment. Washington courts allow individuals to request that the judgment be reversed, but time is of the essence. Acting promptly not only improves your chances but also shows the court that you take the matter seriously.

The first step is to file a motion to vacate the default judgment. This motion must explain why you missed the court date and demonstrate that you have a legitimate defense against the original claims. Valid reasons for missing court may include a medical emergency, improper service of notice, or other unavoidable circumstances. You’ll also need to briefly describe your defense to show the court that your case has merit.

Preparing for the Hearing on Your Motion

After filing the motion, the court will schedule a hearing to decide whether to vacate the judgment. During this hearing, you’ll need to explain your reasons for missing the court date and show that you were not acting negligently or in bad faith. You must also present a valid defense or counterclaim to convince the judge that vacating the judgment is warranted.

Our legal team will represent you at the hearing, ensuring that your argument is clearly presented and supported by the necessary evidence. A well-prepared motion and strong representation can make all the difference in persuading the court to give you another chance.

What If the Motion to Vacate Is Denied?

If the court denies your motion, there are still other ways to manage the situation. You may be able to negotiate a settlement with the opposing party to reduce the amount owed or arrange a payment plan. In some cases, you may have grounds to appeal the court’s decision if there were legal errors during the process.

Taking proactive steps—whether through settlement, negotiation, or payment planning—can help you avoid wage garnishments, liens, or additional collection actions. Our team can guide you through this process to minimize the impact on your finances.

Tips to Avoid Default Judgments in the Future

The best way to avoid default judgments is to stay on top of court deadlines and respond promptly to any legal notices. Make sure your contact information is always up to date with the court to avoid missing important communications. If you’re facing a legal issue, seeking legal advice early can prevent missteps and keep your case on track.

How We Can Help

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we understand how overwhelming it can be to face a default judgment. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case, help you file a motion to vacate, and represent you at the hearing. We are committed to protecting your rights and finding the best solution for your situation.

If you’ve missed a court date or need help vacating a default judgment, call us today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule a consultation. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Let us help you take control of the situation and move forward with confidence.