Garnishment - May my creditor garnish my husband's wages? Our joint bank
account?
Question
If my husband's name and my name are on our checks, I do not have a job,
and I owe a dentist money, can she get the money out of our checking account.
Can she garnish my husband's wages to get the money I owe her?
Answer
The debt you describe would be your debt and not that of your husband.
Therefore, any judgment would only be against you. The creditor would
not be able to garnish your husband's wages. A joint account is subject
to attachment up to the extent of the interest of the debtor in the account.
Therefore, the money in any account which is joint with you and your husband
can be garnished up to the amount of your interest in the account.
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Last Updated: 7-23-02
Send your comments, questions and suggestions to Phil Harter at 161
E Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek, Michigan 49014 or e mail to pharter@calhouncountymi.gov