Do you mean filing a "lawsuit" against them??  I beleive only
the court has power to enter a judgment after action is filed
and tried.  (Kevin correct me if I'm incorrect).

Also,  I beleive a judgment can be "discharged thru bankruptcy".
Come on Kevin, let us know.

My experience has been to file the case, hope you get the
judgment entered by the court and run like _ell to collect
before they file bankrupty, or get rid of all other assets.

Chasing deadbeats can be a good hobby, but you may
not collect much in some cases.  It becomes a case of
cat and mouse.
George