Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Ohio

Civil Judgements

I am in the process of buying a house and was going to ask a family member to co-sign for me. This family member was involved in an accident where a woman was killed. He was found to be at fault and served prison time. He now owes this womans family restitution and has other civil judgements pending. By him co-signing for my house, am I in jeopardy of losing my home because of all these judgements against him? He also just purchased a home of his own. Will they take his house too?


Asked on 8/26/04, 9:55 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Guehl Guehl Law Offices

Re: Civil Judgements

I'm surprised that your prospective co-signer can get a loan, with his record. You would be at risk if he was co-owner of your property, but probably not a problem if he was merely a co-signer on the loan obligation. The difference is: someone with a civil judgment can attach assets (title to real estate), versus his obligation to repay YOUR loan, but with no ownership interest in the property to attach.

The details of the deal should be reviewed by your attorney, to assure there are no "surprises."

Good luck,

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Answered on 8/26/04, 2:31 pm


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