Real Property Lien Law: When and How Real Estate Liens Come About

Filing a lien against a debtor's real property is an effective means of securing payment. In Massachusetts, liens may arise by operation of law or judicial orders. But which of these liens are enforceable and which have priority over others?

This program reviews liens filed against real estate, the priority of those liens, and when they expire, as well as which liens attach against after-acquired property, and liens that can gain priority over other liens.

The faculty discuss the effect of a foreclosure, deed in lieu of foreclosure, or bankruptcy filing on liens, as well as how a short sale may impact those liens, and what protection the Homestead Act provides to a homeowner. The panel examines liens created by divorce, death, and other probate actions. You also hear about challenges to the priority and validity of a lien, including discussion of equitable subrogation and other remedies affecting lien priority. Bring your questions and join the focused discussion.