A property lien may be utilized to collect a court judgment in New Jersey. 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.
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What types of property are susceptible to a judgment lien in New Jersey?
A judgment lien may be connected to the debtor’s real estate in every state, 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.
A judgment lien may only be affixed to real estate in New Jersey (not personal property).
In New Jersey, how can a creditor get a judgment lien?
A judgment lien is immediately placed on the debtor’s current and future property situated anywhere in the state for claims made in New Jersey’s Law Division. To file a claim in New Jersey’s Special Civil Part (only claims of $15,000 or less may be filed here), the creditor must first have the judgment docketed in the Law Division.
In New Jersey, how long does a judgment lien last?
In New Jersey, a judgment lien remains connected to the debtor’s property for 20 years (even if the property changes ownership).
Keep in mind that in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey bankruptcy and debt attorney to assist you in resolving any lien concerns.
Where can I get information about New Jersey judgment liens?
If you want to go straight to the source and seek up New Jersey 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 N.J. Stat. Ann. sections 2A:14-5, 2A:26-9 through 2A:26-11.