Which step typically precedes a wage garnishment?

• A. Directly sending a demand letter.
• B. Obtaining a judgment.
• C. Filing for bankruptcy.
• D. Making a settlement.

Answer: (B)

A wage garnishment is an enforcement action that requires a court judgment as its legal basis. Without a judgment, there isn’t a lawful order directing an employer to withhold part of the debtor’s wages. A demand letter might kick off collection activity, but it doesn’t create the binding authority to garnish wages. Filing for bankruptcy can pause or stop garnishment due to an automatic stay, so it isn’t the typical step that leads to garnishment; it’s a different legal path entirely. Making a settlement can resolve the debt and avoid garnishment, but it doesn’t by itself establish the authority to garnish. Therefore, obtaining a judgment is the step that typically precedes wage garnishment.