Losing a civil case can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the road. In Washington State, there are several ways to challenge or resolve a judgment, whether through appeals or settlement negotiations. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we’re here to guide you through your legal options. Below, we’ll explore what happens after losing a case and the steps you can take next.

Understanding the Judgment

A civil judgment is the court’s final decision, usually involving monetary damages or an order to act (or stop acting) in a certain way. If you receive an unfavorable judgment, you have two main options: appeal the decision or negotiate a settlement. Each route has its own pros and cons, depending on the facts of your case and your financial situation.

Filing an Appeal

An appeal allows you to challenge the court’s decision by arguing that legal or procedural errors affected the outcome. However, appeals don’t allow you to present new evidence—they focus solely on reviewing what happened during the initial trial.

If you believe the judge misapplied the law or made procedural mistakes, filing an appeal could reverse or modify the outcome. In Washington State, you must act quickly, as the deadline to file a notice of appeal is usually 30 days from the judgment. Working with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the appellate process and strengthen your argument.

Negotiating a Settlement

Not every unfavorable judgment needs to go through the lengthy appeal process. Settlement negotiations can offer a faster, less stressful way to resolve disputes. Even after losing in court, it may be possible to negotiate a lower payment, establish a payment plan, or request that the creditor dismiss part of the debt.

A settlement can benefit both parties—creditors often prefer to receive some payment without additional legal costs, and you gain more control over the outcome. Our team at the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer can help open lines of communication with the opposing party and work toward a resolution that fits your needs.

What Happens if You Don’t Take Action?

Ignoring a civil judgment won’t make it disappear. If left unpaid, the creditor can take legal steps to enforce it, including wage garnishment, bank account levies, or placing liens on your property. The longer you wait to act, the fewer options you may have.

By addressing the judgment promptly—whether through appeal or settlement—you have a better chance of protecting your assets and minimizing financial harm.

How We Can Help

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we understand how stressful it can be to face an unfavorable judgment. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps, whether that’s filing an appeal or negotiating a settlement.

If you’ve recently lost a civil case and need help, call us today at (360) 334-6277 for a consultation. We’re here to protect your rights and help you find the best path forward.