What is a Consummate Lien? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A consummate lien is a type of judgment lien that is established after a court denies a motion for a new trial. This lien is created when a judgment, which is a formal decision made by a court, is recorded. Essentially, it serves as a legal claim against a debtor's property, ensuring that a specified amount of money is paid to the creditor.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A creditor wins a lawsuit against a debtor for unpaid services. After the court denies the debtor's request for a new trial, the creditor records a consummate lien on the debtor's real estate to secure payment.

Example 2: A business files for a judgment against a former client for unpaid invoices. Upon denial of the client's appeal for a new trial, the business records a consummate lien against the client's assets to recover the owed amount. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Key Differences
California Allows for a specific duration for judgment liens.
New York Requires additional steps for enforcing a lien against personal property.
Texas Provides exemptions for certain types of property from liens.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Judgment Lien A legal claim against a debtor's property following a court judgment. Consummate lien specifically arises after a denial of a new trial motion.
Abstract of Judgment A summary of a court judgment that can be recorded. Abstracts can lead to liens but are not liens themselves.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself involved with a consummate lien, consider the following steps:

  • Review the judgment details and ensure it has been properly recorded.
  • Consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and obligations.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage the lien process effectively.

Quick facts

  • Type: Judgment lien
  • Creation: After denial of a new trial motion
  • Jurisdiction: Varies by state
  • Duration: Typically lasts until paid or removed

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A consummate lien is a judgment lien that arises after a court denies a motion for a new trial, securing a creditor's claim against a debtor's property.