A lien is a claim that effectively places a hold or freeze on property (bank accounts, real estate, a car or truck, insurance proceeds) to ensure payment of a debt by the owner of the property. In the child support context, a parent who is owed child support—or the state’s child support services in the Office of Attorney General—may place a child support lien on property owned by the parent who owes child support.

In most states this child support lien arises automatically and without the need for a court order. Banks, insurance companies, and real estate title companies are given notice of a child support lien (1) by the attorney for the parent who is owed child support; (2) by the state’s child support services; or (3) by checking a lien registry or child support lien network for liens. In some circumstances the parent who is owed child support, or the state’s child support services may force the sale of property to satisfy a child support lien.

In Louisiana (LA), a child support lien can be used as a legal tool to ensure that a parent who owes child support fulfills their obligation. This lien can be placed on the delinquent parent's property, such as bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, or insurance proceeds. The lien acts as a hold on the property, which can prevent the owner from selling or refinancing it without first satisfying the owed child support. In Louisiana, the lien for child support can be established automatically by law without the need for a court order. The state’s child support enforcement agency, under the Department of Children and Family Services, or an attorney representing the parent who is owed child support, can notify financial institutions, insurance companies, and real estate title companies of the lien. Additionally, Louisiana participates in the Child Support Lien Network (CSLN), which provides a database of individuals who owe child support and are subject to liens, helping to facilitate the enforcement process. In certain situations, the property may be forced into sale by the owed parent or the state to satisfy the child support lien.