====== Liens ======

A **lien** is a **legal claim or encumbrance** against real property that is used as **security for the payment of a debt or obligation**.

===== Key Characteristics =====
  * Does **not transfer title**
  * Gives the lienholder the **right to foreclose**
  * Attaches to the **property**, not the owner
  * Can be **voluntary or involuntary**
  * Must usually be **recorded** to give public notice

===== Types of Liens =====
  * **Voluntary Liens**
    * Created by the property owner
    * Examples: mortgage, deed of trust

  * **Involuntary Liens**
    * Created by law
    * Examples: property tax liens, judgment liens, mechanic’s liens

===== General vs Specific Liens =====
  * **General Lien**
    * Attaches to all property owned by the debtor
    * Example: judgment lien

  * **Specific Lien**
    * Attaches to a specific property
    * Examples: property tax lien, deed of trust

===== Priority of Liens =====
  * Generally determined by **date of recording**
  * **Property tax liens** take priority over all other liens
  * Special assessments (e.g., Mello-Roos) may have priority

===== Removal of Liens =====
  * Payment or satisfaction of the debt
  * Foreclosure
  * Release or reconveyance
  * Expiration (statute of limitations)

===== Exam Tip =====
  * A lien is a **claim**, not ownership
  * Priority determines **who gets paid first**