Connecticut Judgment Liens on Real Estate

A property lien may be utilized to collect a court judgment in Connecticut. This is how it works.

In a civil court matter, a judgment is issued by the court after a judge or jury renders a verdict – or after a court-approved settlement. A typical judgment includes an order for money to be paid from one person to another. However, the individual who owes the money (the debtor) does not always pay it back. A judgment lien is one method of ensuring that the person who obtained the judgment (the creditor) receives what is due to him or her. A judgment lien grants the creditor the right to receive a set amount of money from the profits of the debtor’s property sale.

What types of property are susceptible to a judgment lien in Connecticut?

A judgment lien in Connecticut may be connected to the debtor’s real estate (a home, condo, land, or other similar kind of property interest) or to the debtor’s personal property (items like jewelry, art, antiques, and other valuables).

In Connecticut, how can a creditor get a judgment lien?

The creditor must attach a lien to real estate during the case and submit a lien certificate with the town clerk in the Connecticut town where the debtor’s property is situated within four months after receiving a judgment. For personal property liens, the creditor files a judgment with Connecticut’s Secretary of State’s Office.

In Connecticut, how long does a judgment lien last?

In Connecticut, a judgment lien remains connected to the debtor’s property (even if the property changes ownership) for 20 years (for liens on real estate) or five years (for liens on personal property) (liens on personal property).

Keep in mind that in Connecticut, a creditor’s ability to collect under a judgment lien is influenced by a number of factors, including a fixed amount of value that cannot be touched if the property is the debtor’s primary residence (known as a homestead exemption), other liens that may be in place, and any foreclosure or bankruptcy proceedings. If matters get problematic, you should consult with an expert Connecticut bankruptcy and debt attorney to assist you in resolving any lien concerns.

Where can I get information about Connecticut judgment liens?

If you want to go straight to the source and seek out Connecticut laws on judgment liens – maybe you’re a party to a judgment or merely looking for possible encumbrances on property – the applicable statute(s) can be found in Conn. Gen. Stat. Ann. Sections 52-355a, 52-380a.