About the small claims judgment
A small claims judgment is final. It is rendered by the judge from the bench, or in writing after being taken under advisement.
Judgment by default
A judgment may be rendered by default when the defendant took no part in the trial or failed to attend the hearing.
Judgment on the face of the record
A judgment may be rendered without a hearing. The judge examines the entire record, then renders a judgment without a hearing.
Revocation of judgment
A defendant can apply for the revocation of a judgment rendered by default, for a valid reason.
Voluntary execution of a judgment
The debtor has a legal time limit from the date of the judgment to pay the amount owed directly to the creditor.
Forced execution of a judgment
If the debtor fails to execute the judgment within the time limit, the creditor can apply measures to force execution.
Last update: October 7, 2025