Bill > H0629

This bill clarifies that the Family Division of the Superior Court will have exclusive authority over legal actions related to judgments it issues, meaning that any lawsuits or requests to extend the validity of these judgments must be handled within that specific division. It also specifies how the time limits for these judgments, known as "tolling," will work, stating that a motion to renew a Family Division judgment for money or property must be filed within eight years of the original judgment or when the last required action is due, and that filing such a motion will temporarily pause the statute of limitations until the court makes a decision. Furthermore, the bill outlines actions that will restart the eight-year limitation period, such as a written acknowledgment of the debt, any payment made towards the judgment (even through wage withholding or by a third party on behalf of the obligor), or any action taken by the obligor to comply with the judgment's terms. Finally, all money or property judgments from the Family Division will now include a clear statement reminding parties that renewal requires a motion within eight years or the judgment will expire.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.629