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 New Jersey, a child support lien can be placed on a delinquent parent's property to ensure payment of overdue child support. This lien can be applied to various types of property, including bank accounts, real estate, vehicles, and insurance proceeds. The lien serves as a legal claim against the property, which can prevent the owner from selling or refinancing the asset without first satisfying the owed child support. The New Jersey Child Support Program, which operates under the Office of the Attorney General, is responsible for enforcing child support orders and can place liens on property when child support is not paid. The lien can be initiated by the attorney representing the parent who is owed child support or by the state's child support services. Additionally, New Jersey participates in the Child Support Lien Network (CSLN), which facilitates the exchange of information between states to enforce child support liens. In certain situations, the sale of the property may be compelled to satisfy the child support lien. It is important for parents who owe child support to be aware of these potential legal actions to avoid the consequences of a lien on their property.