Judgment Lien
A judgment lien is a court-ordered claim against a debtor's property that secures the payment of a money judgment. Once recorded, the lien attaches to all real property owned by the judgment debtor in that county and must be satisfied before the property can be sold with clear title.
Example
“When the contractor won the lawsuit but wasn't paid, the court granted a judgment lien against the homeowner's property for $25,000.”
Memory Tip
Think 'judge's chain' - the judge puts a legal chain (lien) on your property until you pay what the judgment says you owe.
Why It Matters
Judgment liens can prevent property sales and refinancing until the underlying debt is paid, making it essential for property owners to resolve judgments quickly and for buyers to verify clear title.
Common Misconception
Property owners often think judgment liens only affect the specific property mentioned in the lawsuit, but they typically attach to all real property owned by the debtor in the jurisdiction.
In Practice
When restaurant owner Maria lost a slip-and-fall lawsuit, the $50,000 judgment lien attached not only to her commercial property but also to her personal residence, preventing her from selling either property until the judgment was satisfied.
Etymology
Combines 'judgment' from Latin 'judicium' (judicial decision) with 'lien' from Old French meaning 'bond' - a court-ordered bond on property.
Common Misspellings
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