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The Blumberg 120 form plays a crucial role in the execution process against property in New York. This form is designed to facilitate the legal procedure for garnishing wages or seizing assets to satisfy a judgment. It includes essential sections for identifying the parties involved, such as the judgment debtor and the garnishee, ensuring that all necessary information is documented clearly. The form stipulates that a sheriff is responsible for serving notice to the garnishee, which is vital for initiating the garnishment process. Additionally, it outlines exemptions that protect certain amounts in a debtor's account from being levied, specifically referencing statutory limits that safeguard funds deemed necessary for the debtor's reasonable living expenses. The form also requires the inclusion of pertinent details such as the index number, court information, and the attorney's contact information, ensuring that the execution is properly recorded and executed. By adhering to these guidelines, the Blumberg 120 form helps streamline the garnishment process while providing necessary protections for debtors.

Form Sample

120 Execution Against Property, To Sheriff, Notice to Garnishee;
©
2012 by BlumbergExcelsior, Inc., Publisher, NYC 10013
Blank Court. 6 blanks suggested: original; office copy; 2 copies each www.blumberg.com
for debtor and garnishee if officer cannot serve personally. 6–12
Pursuant to CPLR § 5205(l), $2,625 of an account containing direct deposit or electronic payments reasonably identifiable
as statutorily exempt payments, as defined in CPLR § 5205(l)(2), is exempt from execution and the garnishee cannot levy upon or
restrain $2,625 in such an account.
Pursuant to CPLR § 5222(i), an execution shall not apply to an amount equal to or less than 90% of the greater of 240 times
the federal minimum hourly wage prescribed in the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 or 240 times the state minimum hourly wage
prescribed in Labor Law § 652 as in effect at the time the earnings are payable, except such part as a court determines to be unnec-
essary for the reasonable requirements of the judgment debtor and his or her dependents.
Dated: Signature Print name signed
Plaintiff(s)
Defendant(s)
against
INDEX NO. COURT COUNTY OF
Attorney(s) for
Office and Post Office Address
and that, as to them, the execution must be restricted as below prescribed.
Attorney(s) for
Please take notice that the following named defendants were not served with a summons herein, viz.:
Name and Address of Garnishee
Address of Judgment Debtor
Location of Property
with interest from
Sheriff of any County
Levy and collect as within directed
besides your fees, etc. Dated and time received
Sheriff
ENDORSEMENT
LAW OFFICES OF
Execution
AGAINST PROPERTY
With Notice to Garnishee
An execution against property shall not be levied upon the sole property of such a defendant, but it may be collected out of
real and personal property owned by him jointly with the other defendants who were summoned or with any of them, and out of
the real and personal property of the latter or any of them.

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The Blumberg 120 form is used for executing a judgment against a debtor's property and notifying a garnishee.
Governing Law This form is governed by the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR), specifically sections 5205 and 5222.
Exempt Amount Under CPLR § 5205(l), $2,625 in certain accounts is exempt from execution, protecting specific types of income.
Copies Required It is suggested to prepare six copies of the form: one original, one office copy, and two copies each for the debtor and garnishee.
Minimum Wage Calculation CPLR § 5222(i) states that execution does not apply to amounts equal to or less than 90% of 240 times the federal or state minimum wage.
Defendant Notification The form requires notification if any defendants were not served with a summons, restricting execution against their sole property.
Joint Property Collection Execution can be collected from real and personal property jointly owned by the defendant and others who were summoned.
Signature Requirement The form must be signed and dated by the attorney or plaintiff to be valid and enforceable.
Contact Information It is essential to include the names and addresses of the garnishee, judgment debtor, and attorney for proper processing.

Steps to Filling Out Blumberg 120

Filling out the Blumberg 120 form requires careful attention to detail. Each section must be completed accurately to ensure proper processing. Follow these steps to fill out the form correctly.

  1. Obtain the Blumberg 120 form from a reliable source.
  2. Fill in the INDEX NO. section with the relevant index number assigned to your case.
  3. Enter the COURT name where the case is filed.
  4. Specify the COUNTY OF where the court is located.
  5. In the PLAINTIFF(S) section, write the names of the plaintiffs involved in the case.
  6. In the DEFENDANT(S) section, provide the names of the defendants.
  7. Fill in the ADDRESS OF GARNISHEE with the complete address of the garnishee.
  8. Complete the ADDRESS OF JUDGMENT DEBTOR with the debtor's full address.
  9. Indicate the LOCATION OF PROPERTY where the execution is to take place.
  10. Sign and date the form in the Dated section.
  11. Print your name in the Print name signed area.
  12. In the ENDORSEMENT section, list any defendants who were not served with a summons.
  13. Review the completed form for accuracy before submitting it.

More About Blumberg 120

What is the Blumberg 120 form used for?

The Blumberg 120 form is primarily utilized for executing a judgment against a debtor's property. This legal document notifies the sheriff to levy and collect on the property of the debtor. It also includes a notice to the garnishee, informing them of their obligations regarding the debtor's assets. This form is essential for creditors seeking to recover amounts owed through the seizure of property or funds held by third parties.

How many copies of the Blumberg 120 form are needed?

When preparing the Blumberg 120 form, it is advisable to create multiple copies. The suggested number is six: one original for the court, one office copy, and two copies each for the debtor and the garnishee. This ensures that all parties involved receive the necessary documentation, and the court has its records in order. If the sheriff cannot serve the documents personally, having these copies becomes even more critical.

What exemptions apply when using the Blumberg 120 form?

Exemptions are an important consideration when executing against a debtor's property. According to CPLR § 5205(l), certain funds are protected from execution. Specifically, $2,625 of an account containing direct deposits or electronic payments that can be identified as statutorily exempt is not subject to levy. Additionally, under CPLR § 5222(i), amounts equal to or less than 90% of a specified minimum wage are also protected, unless a court determines otherwise. These exemptions help safeguard essential funds for the debtor and their dependents.

What should I do if a named defendant was not served?

If a named defendant was not served with a summons, it is crucial to note this on the Blumberg 120 form. The execution against property must be restricted for those defendants. Specifically, the property owned solely by an unserved defendant cannot be levied upon. However, property that is jointly owned with other defendants can still be subject to execution. This ensures that the rights of all parties are respected while allowing the creditor to pursue the judgment effectively.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Information: Many people fail to fill out all required fields on the Blumberg 120 form. Missing information can lead to delays or rejections of the filing.

  2. Incorrect Signature: Some individuals forget to sign the form or do not provide the correct signature. This oversight can invalidate the document and halt the execution process.

  3. Failure to Specify Exemptions: It is crucial to identify any exemptions correctly. Not mentioning the $2,625 exemption or other applicable exemptions can result in improper garnishment of funds.

  4. Ignoring Court Requirements: Each court may have specific rules regarding the filing of the Blumberg 120 form. Ignoring these requirements can lead to complications or dismissals.

Documents used along the form

The Blumberg 120 form is used primarily for execution against property in garnishment cases. However, several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure a comprehensive legal process. Below is a list of these related documents, along with brief descriptions of their purposes.

  • Summons: This document notifies the defendant that a legal action has been initiated against them. It provides essential details about the case, including the court's name and the parties involved.
  • Complaint: This form outlines the plaintiff's claims against the defendant. It details the facts of the case and the legal basis for the lawsuit, serving as the foundation for the court proceedings.
  • Judgment: After a court decision, this document officially records the outcome of the case. It indicates the amount owed by the defendant and can be used to initiate collection actions.
  • Notice of Execution: This document informs the debtor that an execution order has been issued. It serves to formally notify them of the impending collection actions against their property.
  • Garnishee's Answer: This form is completed by the garnishee, usually a bank or employer, to respond to the execution order. It provides information on any funds or property held on behalf of the debtor.
  • Affidavit of Service: This document verifies that the required legal papers were delivered to the appropriate parties. It is crucial for establishing that the defendant has been properly notified.
  • Exemption Claim Form: This form allows the debtor to claim certain exemptions from garnishment. It details which assets or income should be protected from execution based on state laws.

These documents work together to facilitate the legal process of garnishment and execution. Each plays a vital role in ensuring that the rights of both the creditor and debtor are considered throughout the proceedings.

Similar forms

The Blumberg 120 form is similar to the Notice of Motion form, which is often used in civil litigation. Both documents serve to inform parties involved in a legal matter about specific actions being taken. The Notice of Motion outlines the request being made to the court, while the Blumberg 120 form notifies the garnishee and debtor about the execution against property. Each document requires clear identification of the parties involved and the specific relief sought, ensuring that all parties are aware of the legal proceedings in a timely manner.

Another comparable document is the Writ of Execution. This legal instrument is issued by a court to enforce a judgment by allowing the seizure of a debtor's property. Like the Blumberg 120 form, the Writ of Execution specifies the property subject to seizure and informs the sheriff of the actions needed to collect on a judgment. Both documents are crucial in the enforcement of court orders, providing clear guidance on how to proceed with the collection of debts owed.

The Judgment Lien form shares similarities with the Blumberg 120 form as well. A Judgment Lien establishes a legal claim against a debtor's property until the judgment is satisfied. Both forms serve to protect the rights of the creditor, ensuring that they have a legal avenue to pursue the collection of debts. The Judgment Lien form, like the Blumberg 120, must be properly filed and served to ensure that the debtor and any third parties are aware of the creditor's claim.

The Garnishment Order is another document that resembles the Blumberg 120 form. This order directs a third party, typically an employer or bank, to withhold a portion of a debtor's earnings or funds to satisfy a debt. Both documents require precise information about the debtor and the amount owed. They also establish the legal basis for the garnishment, ensuring that the creditor can collect the owed amount while adhering to legal protections afforded to the debtor.

Similar to the Blumberg 120 form is the Affidavit of Service. This document serves as proof that legal papers have been delivered to the appropriate parties. In the context of the Blumberg 120 form, the Affidavit of Service confirms that the garnishee and debtor have received notice of the execution against property. Both documents are essential for maintaining transparency and accountability in legal proceedings.

The Subpoena is another document that bears resemblance to the Blumberg 120 form. A Subpoena compels a person to appear in court or produce documents relevant to a case. Both the Subpoena and the Blumberg 120 form are tools for gathering information and enforcing legal rights. They require careful drafting to ensure that the parties involved understand their obligations and the consequences of non-compliance.

The Release of Judgment is akin to the Blumberg 120 form in that it signifies the conclusion of a legal obligation. When a debtor has satisfied their debt, the Release of Judgment formally removes the lien or claim against their property. Both documents are critical in the lifecycle of a judgment, marking the transition from enforcement to resolution, ensuring that all parties are aware of the current status of the debt.

Finally, the Satisfaction of Judgment form is similar to the Blumberg 120 form in its purpose of documenting that a judgment has been fully paid or settled. This form provides official confirmation to the court and the debtor that the creditor has received the owed amount. Both documents play a vital role in the legal process, ensuring that all parties have clarity regarding the status of the debt and the enforcement actions taken.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Blumberg 120 form, consider the following tips to ensure accuracy and compliance:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do provide all required information clearly and legibly.
  • Do check the number of copies needed for submission.
  • Do sign the form where indicated.
  • Don't leave any blanks unless specified.
  • Don't submit incorrect or outdated information.
  • Don't forget to include the proper court and index number.
  • Don't ignore the exemption rules related to garnishments.

Following these guidelines will help you complete the form correctly and avoid potential issues.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Blumberg 120 form is crucial for navigating legal processes related to execution against property. However, several misconceptions often arise. Here are eight common misunderstandings:

  • The Blumberg 120 form is only for creditors. This form can also be relevant for garnishees, as it provides them with essential information about their obligations.
  • Filing the form guarantees immediate collection. While the form initiates the process, it does not ensure that the creditor will collect the debt immediately.
  • All funds in a bank account are subject to execution. Certain funds, such as direct deposits that are statutorily exempt, cannot be levied upon, specifically the first $2,625.
  • The form is only necessary in New York. Although it originates from New York, similar forms exist in other jurisdictions, and understanding local laws is important.
  • Only the sheriff can execute the form. While the sheriff is typically responsible for enforcement, attorneys can also play a significant role in the process.
  • Once filed, the form cannot be modified. Amendments can be made if circumstances change, such as new information about the debtor or garnishee.
  • Execution against property is a simple process. The process can be complex, involving multiple steps and adherence to specific legal requirements.
  • All defendants must be served for the execution to be valid. If certain defendants are not served, the execution may still proceed against jointly owned property.

Clarifying these misconceptions can help individuals better understand their rights and responsibilities when dealing with the Blumberg 120 form.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Blumberg 120 form, keep these key takeaways in mind:

  • Multiple Copies Required: Prepare the original form along with an office copy and two copies each for the debtor and garnishee, especially if personal service is not possible.
  • Exempt Funds: Be aware that $2,625 in an account containing identifiable exempt payments is protected from execution and cannot be levied upon by the garnishee.
  • Minimum Wage Consideration: Understand that execution cannot apply to amounts equal to or less than 90% of 240 times the federal or state minimum wage, ensuring protection for the debtor's reasonable needs.
  • Defendant Notification: If any named defendants were not served with a summons, note this on the form to restrict execution against their sole property.
  • Joint Property Collection: Execution can be collected from jointly owned real and personal property of defendants who were summoned, even if some were not served.
  • Signature Requirement: Ensure that the form is signed and includes the printed name of the signer to validate the execution process.