When a client falls behind on their debt, the creditor or collection agency will attempt to collect the debt. The collection process usually involves sending threatening phone calls and letters. In many cases, creditors will threated the client with garnishments, bank levies, and liens. However, the reality is that creditors cannot do these things without going to court. A creditor must file a lawsuit and obtain a judgment against a client in order to garnish wages, levy bank accounts, and put liens on property. Therefore, the threat to do these things are normally just threats unless a lawsuit has been filed.