Ask the Lawyer received the following question (paraphrased for easier reading and clarity) from a reader on a legal matter that might be of interest to the entire audience. Q: Are FERS annuity retirement benefits subject to garnishment by the state court as a result of a civil verdict? A: That depends on the type of civil lawsuit. Generally, FERS benefits may not be garnished by state courts. This is explained by Title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 838. There is an important exception to this rule though. Title 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts…