Post-Judgment Collections in Illinois: Using Citations to Discover Assets

What Is a Citation to Discover Assets?

In Illinois, a citation to discover assets is one of the most powerful post-judgment remedies available to creditors. It is a court-issued process that allows a judgment creditor to examine the debtor — or even third parties — to identify and reach assets that can satisfy a judgment.

Unlike simple judgment liens, citations go further:

• They freeze the debtor’s non-exempt assets.

• They allow creditors to demand turnover orders compelling payment.

• They reach beyond the debtor to third parties, such as banks or employers, that hold the debtor’s property.

How Citations Are Issued in Illinois

• Filing: After obtaining a judgment, the creditor files a citation with the clerk of court.

• Issuance: The clerk issues the citation directed to the debtor (or third party).

• Service: The creditor must serve the citation in compliance with Illinois Supreme Court Rules. Once served, the citation acts as a lien on the debtor’s non-exempt personal property.

Remedies Available Through a Citation

With a citation in place, creditors may obtain:

• Asset freezes: Preventing the debtor from transferring or concealing property.

• Turnover orders: Directing the debtor or third party to deliver money or assets to satisfy the judgment.

• Third-party citations: Reaching property or debts owed to the judgment debtor by others (e.g., garnishing bank accounts or accounts receivable).

How Illinois Differs from Other States

Illinois’ citation process is more comprehensive than traditional post-judgment discovery tools in other jurisdictions. In many states, creditors must separately file garnishments, subpoenas, or debtor examinations. Illinois combines these functions into one streamlined procedure, making citations an especially effective enforcement mechanism.

Timing, Service, and Defenses

• Timing: A citation lien is effective upon service and generally continues for six months. It can be extended by the court.

• Service Requirements: Failure to properly serve the debtor or third party can invalidate the lien.

• Debtor Defenses: Debtors may object on grounds such as exemptions (e.g., income thresholds, retirement accounts) or improper service. Courts also scrutinize turnover orders to ensure fairness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a citation lien last in Illinois?A citation lien lasts six months from the date of service, unless extended by the court.

Can a citation reach bank accounts outside Illinois?Yes — if the bank is subject to jurisdiction in Illinois, a citation can require it to turn over funds, even if the accounts are physically located elsewhere.

What happens if the debtor ignores the citation?Failure to comply can result in contempt of court, fines, or even arrest warrants in extreme cases.

Does the citation apply to exempt property?No. Certain assets are protected under Illinois exemption laws, such as qualified retirement plans and limited personal property.

KS Law LLC: Local Counsel for Post-Judgment Enforcement

At KS Law LLC, we help creditors and out-of-state attorneys efficiently enforce judgments in Illinois. Our team is experienced in using citations to discover assets, securing turnover orders, and navigating debtor defenses.

👉 If you need local counsel in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois to collect on a judgment, contact KS Law LLC today. We provide practical strategies and aggressive enforcement to get results.