What is a Turnover Order?

A turnover order is a court-issued command requiring you to turn over specific assets or property to the judgment creditor. This often happens after a judgment has already been entered against you.

The purpose is to force the transfer of:

• Cash or funds in non-exempt accounts
• Vehicles or equipment (if not exempt)
• Stocks, cryptocurrency, or investments
• Other valuable non-exempt property

The order might require you to physically deliver the asset, write a check, or transfer funds.

📄 How Does a Creditor Get a Turnover Order?

After judgment, the creditor can file a motion for turnover relief with the court. They must show that:

• You own non-exempt property
• That property is not easily accessible through other means (like garnishment)
• The turnover is necessary to enforce the judgment

They may use discovery tools like:

• Post-judgment interrogatories
• Subpoenas for bank or financial records
• A debtor’s examination where you disclose assets under oath

🚫 What Happens If You Ignore a Turnover Order?

Ignoring a turnover order is a serious matter. Because it’s a court order, failure to comply could lead to:

• Contempt of court
• Fines or other penalties
• In extreme cases, civil arrest for non-compliance

The court may also allow the creditor to seize the property by force or obtain further orders to access your accounts or assets.

💼 Can You Fight a Turnover Order?

Yes, in some cases. You can object if:

• The assets are exempt under state or federal law
• You were not given proper notice or time to respond
• The motion is too broad or vague
• The debt has already been paid or settled

You may also request a hearing to challenge the specifics of the order or assert exemptions.