If we have an order on an account that does not have protected funds, can we charge a fee first or do we have to wait to charge a fee until after the order amount is taken and hope there is enough left to cover the fee?
Your state law likely has rules on charging fees. Even if your state laws permits charging a fee in this order it may not be permitted for certain garnishments. I recommend talking to your attorney, state banking association or department of financial institutions to learn what you can and can not do.