Can I Put a Lien on My Deadbeat Friend? A California Conundrum
So, your buddy owes you cash. It's been longer than it should have, and you're starting to think about drastic measures. You've considered everything from politely asking (again) to threatening to unleash your pet iguana on their doorstep. But now, you're wondering if you can take it to the next level: a lien. Let's dive into the wonderful world of California law, shall we?
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| Can I Put A Lien On Someone Who Owes Me Money In California |
What is a Lien, Anyway?
Imagine a lien as a digital sticky note on someone's property. It's basically a legal claim that says, "Hey, this person owes me money, and if they sell this thing, I get paid first!" It's like cutting in line, but for money.
Can I Just Lien Their Car?
Slow down, hotshot. While it might be tempting to put a big, red "I OWE MONEY" sticker on their car, it's not that simple. In California, to slap a lien on something, you generally need a court judgment saying the person owes you money. It's like getting a golden ticket to the lien party.
QuickTip: Let each idea sink in before moving on.
Okay, So I Need a Court Judgment?
Yep, you guessed it. You'll need to go through the legal process of suing your friend (or whoever owes you money) and winning. It's like a real-life courtroom drama, minus the fancy suits and dramatic pauses. Once you've got that judgment in hand, you can start thinking about liens.
What Kind of Liens Can I Put?
There are two main types of liens in California:
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
- Abstract of Judgment Lien: This is like a general sticky note that sticks to all the debtor's real estate in a county. It's a good option if you know they own property.
- Personal Property Lien: This one is for their stuff, like cars, boats, or valuable collections. But remember, you usually need to find and seize the property yourself. It's like playing hide-and-seek with your money.
Important Note: Is It Worth It?
Before you dive headfirst into the world of liens, consider the costs. Court fees, legal fees, and the potential stress of the whole process can add up. Sometimes, it might be easier (and cheaper) to just cut your losses and move on.
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How To Questions
How to get a court judgment?
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
- Consult with an attorney or file a small claims case if the amount is below the limit.
How to record an abstract of judgment?
- File the document with the county recorder's office where the property is located.
How to find out if someone owns property?
QuickTip: Skim for bold or italicized words.
- Check county recorder's office records or use online property search tools.
How to place a lien on personal property?
- Hire a sheriff or marshal to seize the property and sell it to satisfy the judgment.
How to know if a lien is worth pursuing?
- Weigh the potential return against the costs and time involved.
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