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Abstract of judgment texas · Checked October 23, 2026

Abstract of judgment in Texas: a 10-year lien on real estate

General information, not legal advice. Ask a lawyer before you act on it.

In Texas the justice court that heard your case issues the Abstract of Judgment. Record it with the county clerk where the other side owns real estate, or may own it later, and it becomes a lien there for 10 years. A homestead is generally exempt.

Issued by
The justice court
Recorded with
The county clerk
Lien lasts
10 years

Work out your dates

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The steps

  1. Ask the justice court for it.

    Some justice courts post a request form on their websites; otherwise ask the clerk. Source

  2. Record it with the county clerk.

    Where they own real estate, or may own it later. Record in each county that matters. Source

  3. Know what it reaches. 10 years

    It is a lien on their real estate in that county for 10 years. A homestead is the most common exemption. Source

  4. Keep the judgment alive.

    The judgment is generally good for 10 years and can be renewed. Source

A worked example

An abstract recorded with the Bexar County clerk on November 2, 2026 is a lien on their non-homestead real estate in Bexar County through November 2, 2036. A rental house they buy there in 2028 is covered; their own home, if it is their homestead, generally is not.

Fees and forms change, and your court's clerk has the current ones. General information, not legal advice. Ask a lawyer before you act on it.

Ask once, in writing

Before the court steps, most winners send a letter asking for payment by a date. Fill one in and print it; nothing you type leaves this page.

Make the payment letter

Questions people ask next

Do I file it with the justice court or the county?

Both: the justice court issues it, and you record it with the county clerk.

Will it get me paid from their wages?

No. Texas wages are exempt from garnishment, and the abstract covers real estate only.

What else can I do in Texas?

A writ of execution for non-exempt property, a writ of garnishment for a bank account, or a turnover order when nothing else works.

Your state's full steps

Texas

Related guides

Judgment Lien After Small Claims Writ of Execution in Texas Justice Court Garnish a Bank Account With a Small Claims Judgment

Sources

Checked on October 23, 2026 against these pages.