Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Illinois

You cannot garnish his wages unless you have a judgment against him (you have to sue him). He may voluntarily agree to allow you to withhold money from his paycheck, however.

First you have to file a lawsuit against him. Then, if you win, you may be able to garnish his wages, depending on how much he makes. I would imagine holiday gatherings may be a bit chilly if you go this route. I generally assume loans, to use that word loosely, to friends and family are gifts, and I might be pleasantly surprised if I am repaid. Otherwise, we end up asking about suing family members and friends.