If you are awarded compensation through the courts,how longbdo they hold your funds untill it becomes void?

I was awarded compensation for damages to my car around 7 years ago.the guy was to pay the courts in installments for a period.I joined the armed forces and totally forgot about the case,I have not herd from anyone one since but presume the money is still there to be claimed.is there a limit? and how do I claim??!!!