District of Columbia Judgment Liens on Real Estate (DC)

A property lien may be utilized to collect a court judgment in DC. 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.

Under DC law, what types of property are susceptible to a judgment lien?

A judgment lien may be connected to the debtor’s real estate in all 50 states, which includes a home, condo, land, or other kind of property interest. In addition, certain jurisdictions permit judgment liens on the debtor’s personal property, including as jewelry, art, antiques, and other valuables.

However, in DC, a judgment lien may only be connected to real estate (house, condo, land, etc.).

In the District of Columbia, how can a creditor get a judgment lien?

The creditor files the judgment with the District of Columbia Recorder of Deeds to attach a judgment lien.

In the District of Columbia, how long does a judgment lien last?

In DC, a judgment lien remains connected to the debtor’s property for 12 years (even if the property changes ownership).

Keep in mind that in the District of Columbia, 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 DC bankruptcy and debt attorney to assist you in resolving any lien concerns.

Where can I get information about DC law regarding judgment liens?

If you want to go straight to the source and seek out DC 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 DC Code Ann. Sections 15-101 to 102.