What is a Notice of Intent to Lien in California?

 

A Notice of Intent to Lien is a formal written notification sent to the judgment debtor(s) or other responsible parties. It states that if payment isn't received within a specific timeframe, typically 10 days, you intend to file a California lien against their property.Although not legally required in California, a Notice of Intent to Lien is one of the most effective ways to get paid before filing a real property lien or personal property lien. It's a final, serious warning that payment is due, without immediately escalating the matter to a lien to impact the debtor’s credibility

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Why sending a Notice of Intent to Lien works in California?

 

It gets you taken seriously.

 

• Unpaid judgments often go ignored until a formal notice arrives. A Notice of Intent to Lien signals you’re ready to act, creating urgency and making your demand harder to dismiss.

 

It protects relationships.

 

• Instead of jumping to a lien, a Notice of Lien offers a professional, final warning. It shows good faith and gives the debtor one last chance to resolve the issue.

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It saves time and money.

 

• Filing a lien takes more money and time. A Notice of Intent to Lien often gets results without going that far, saving you time, more fees, and unnecessary stress.

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Who should use the Notice of Intent to Lien service?

 

If you have worked hard to go to court and have your matter heard and your judgment is still unpaid, a Notice of Intent to Lien can do you some good. Some people are able to get paid just using this method and never have to proceed with filing a lien at all.

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When to send the Notice of Intent to Lien?

 

Timing is critical. Although the Notice of Intent to Lien is not required in California, you can send it before filing a lien, typically at least 10 days in advance. That gives the debtor a fair chance to respond and can keep things from escalating.

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What happens if the Notice of Intent to Lien doesn’t work?

 

You can still move forward with filing a lien. The Notice simply gives the other party one last chance to pay the judgment.

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Is sending a Notice of Intent to Lien mandatory?

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Even though a notice of intent to lien is not mandatory, notifying the affected parties is never a bad practice. Rocket Liens offers an Intent to Lien letter which is sent to all judgment debtor(s) involved in the court case. It states if the matter is not resolved within ten (10) working days the creditor will follow through with a Lien.