Legal Question in Traffic Law in Florida

Extent of Responsibility for Auto Accident

I was in an auto accident 15 years ago, I was at fault. I had no insurance. The automobile insurance company of the driver that I hit won a judgement for the claim. There was a lien place on my house for the total amount of the claim. I am making payments. I missed a lot of payments recently and the law firm handling the claim had my licience suspended. I have since started paying again and my licience has been re-instated. At the amount that I am paying it will literlly take 40 years. My questions are; How long am I responsible to pay this, without them revoking my licience? How long is that lien good for on my property?


Asked on 5/10/02, 9:30 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Scott R. Jay Law Offices of Scott R. Jay

Re: Extent of Responsibility for Auto Accident

The life of a lien is dependent upon when it was filed as the applicable laws (Florida Statute 55.10) have changed several times over the last 15 years. A certified judgment filed prior to July 1, 1987, is a valid lien for 20 years from the date of filing/recording. A certifed judgment filed between July 1, 1987, and June 30, 1994, is effective for an initial term of 7 years from the date of filing/recording and can be renewed if refiled. A certifed judgment filed between after July 1, 1994, is effective for an initial term of 10 years from the date of filing/recording.

I strongly suggest that you meet with an attorney to review the judgment/lien and determine the life of the lien. It may be well worth your investment in the consultation fee.

Scott R. Jay, Esq., 305-249-8000

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Answered on 5/10/02, 6:21 pm


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