One of the ways to collect on a judgment is by placing a lien on real property owned by the debtor. Some types of real property are exempt from having a judgment lien placed on them. Homestead property is the most common exemption. If the debtor sells any non-exempt real property, the creditor may be able to get all or some of the money owed from the proceeds of the sale. A judgment lien lasts for ten years.

Generally, to file a judgment lien, an abstract of judgment must be issued by the justice court. Some justice courts have a form available on their website to request an abstract of judgment.

Once the abstract of judgment has been issued, it may then be filed with the county clerk's office where the real property is located or where property may be located in the future.

Texas Law

Understanding the Law

You can borrow the e-books below with your library account. Don't have a library account? Texas residents can register for a library account online! Learn more about how to register online.

These print books are not available online. They are available at the Texas State Law Library in Austin. If you can't visit the library in person, these books might be available at a law library near you or a public library near you.