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can my wages be garished for a hospital bill that's for my husband,?
Memphis, TN
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Posted 4 months ago in Debt Collection
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my husband is on disability and I recieved a notice that was sent to my employer to garnish my wages for his hospital bill. I did not sign any documents stating that I would be responsible for the bill, nor was my insurance used for his admission or hospital service. I work part time and my insurance only covers me. Can I file a lawsuit?
Answers (1)
Mark Hankins
This attorney is licensed in Colorado and 1 other state.
Posted 4 months ago.
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In many states, spouses can be held liable for debts incurred by the other spouse under the "doctrine of necessaries (or necessities--both terms are used interchangeably)" that applies to such things as food, clothing, shelter and in many cases medical care. There may or may not be a legal basis for the hospital to get a judgment against you, but if they are garnishing they either have a judgment (which you may or may not be able to have vacated), or the hospital is a public one and there is an administrative route for them to get paid which obviates the need for them to go to court.
You need a Tennessee attorney to tell you all the ins and outs. I will tell you that Tennessee is one of the easiest states for creditors to garnish in. Consequently Tennessee bankruptcies are rather high on a per capita basis. |
