What does a judgment becoming dormant imply for creditors in Ohio?

When a judgment becomes dormant in Ohio, it implies that it cannot operate as a lien. A dormant judgment is one that has not been enforced for a specified period, which in Ohio is typically five years. Once it becomes dormant, a creditor loses the ability to use that judgment as a lien on the debtor's property, meaning the creditor cannot enforce the collection of the debt through that means.

The status of a dormant judgment indicates that it is no longer actively enforceable against the debtor’s assets. Creditors must take specific actions, such as reviving the judgment through court proceedings, to regain enforcement rights. While a dormant judgment may still be subject to revival or renewal, it fundamentally loses its immediate power as a lien during its dormant status. This understanding is crucial for managing judgments and creditors’ rights within Ohio's legal framework.