In a civil suit, when a jury awards a plaintiff $200,000, what are the payment terms? Who decides?

Question

There should be limits, or the defendant could take 10 years to pay,

Answer 1

Most judgments become final after the period of time for seeking a re-hearing has run. Varies by state, but is often about 10 days. From that point on the entire sum is due and can be collected by levy upon assets, garnishment, etc. If the defendant chooses to appeal they can "stay" execution of the judgment by posting a bond -- usually for the entire sum of the judgment plus a year's interest. Once an appellate court has ruled, (& the time for re-hearing of that has run) the "stay" is removed or the winner can "execute" the judgment on the bond. Very often, where defendants have insufficient assets to pay a lump sum judgment; they'll work out a payment agreement with the plaintiffs, often secured by a mortgage or lien on assets.

Answer 2

In most states the Court in which the case was heard will, after the verdict, issue a document called a judgment, setting forth the terms under which payment is to be made. Typically it's payment on demand.

If someone fails to pay under a judgment, there are a variety of collection options open - you need to consult an attorney in your state who is aware of the limitations imposed by the relevant federal and state laws concerning collection practices.

Answer 3

Yea they could take ten years to pay. It depends on the type of damage. Some settlements are structured to last out your life others are lump sum. depends on wheather or not the defedant has assets or if its a insurance company etc, The Judge will decide.