After judgment, how long before they garnish my bank accnts?

[garagesale]

This is my first post but I've been a lurker here on the forums for several weeks and have learned ALOT!

But, I haven't found the answer to a couple of questions about bank account garnishments.

A federal judgment has been filed against me (but it's not the IRS/government -- it's the result of a lawsuit that I'm appealing). That in itself is a whole other can of worms, but, for now, I just need to use my checking account for a week or so.

Can they immediately freeze my checking account upon finding it since they have a judgment? Or are they required to provide me with some kind of notice before they can garnish?

Does it take time -- like days or weeks -- or can Defendants find and garnish my account instantly?

If I open a new checking accnt today, could I reasonably expect it to be safe for about a week? Or two? Will it look bad if I deposit thousands of dollars and withdraw it all during this short time even if I can show proof that it was all paid to my atty?

My home address is in California.

Thanks in advance for pointing me in the right direction. Stressful times.

[cupcake]

I am not familiar with California law, but in Michigan a judgment is not final for 3-4 weeks depending on the court and a garnishment writ cannot be issued until such time. I would think that most states have the same or similar laws.

[OhioFiler]

Usually when a judgment is rendered you have a specific period of time to appeal. No garnishment will occur before that time.

[garagesale]

Ah, good to know. I have 30 days from the date of judgment to appeal so I prob have roughly the same time before garnishment can occur.

Thanks cupcake and OhioFiler!