Default Judgment Entered Against You: Options Left

A default is not necessarily the end — the paths back depend on timing and the reason for the default.

The short version

Courts generally prefer cases decided on the merits. A motion to set aside a default usually needs a plausible defense, a prompt motion, and an explanation for missing the deadline. Act within days, not months.

What to do, in order

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Evidence and records to keep

['Get the case file and read what the collector actually proved.', "Check the deadline for your jurisdiction's set-aside motion.", 'Draft the meritorious defense you would have raised.', 'File the motion with supporting declaration.', 'Prepare to post a bond if the court requires one.']

Verify before you file

Deadlines, fees, and forms in this area are set by statute, court rule, or tribunal practice, and they change. Confirm the current requirement on the official your state self-help portal or with the clerk before relying on anything here. This page is general procedural information, not legal advice, and creates no attorney-client relationship.