My wife had cosigned for a friend's auto 20 years ago and in 1996 there was a judgement against my wife for the lease which was never paid. This judgement does not appear on her credit reports and the law firm which represented the leasing company has split up. How long does this stay in effect in New York State and do they have to notify her if it is renewed?

Hello mister:

It's in effect for 10 years and can be renewed for another 10.

Do they have to notify her?? Nahhh.

But, you can find out if it got renewed by going back to the court who issued it in the first place.

Unless, of course, you'd rather find out about it by having your checks start bouncing around town.

excon

I spoke with the county clerk and found out that the jugement stays in effect againt her for 20 years and they verified that it still is there. The 10 years applies only to a lien against property. Guess she better wait until 2015.