Hawaii Real Estate State Practice Exam

Which of the following is TRUE regarding a judgment lien in Hawaii?

1. It lasts indefinitely

2. It can be removed without payment

3. It is recorded with specific property reference

4. It only applies to commercial properties

The correct answer is: It is recorded with specific property reference

A judgment lien in Hawaii is a legal claim against a person's property that arises when a court issues a judgment in favor of one party and against another. The correct answer, which states that a judgment lien is recorded with specific property reference, highlights an essential aspect of how these liens function. When a judgment is entered, the creditor can file the judgment with the Bureau of Conveyances or the Land Court in Hawaii, thus creating a lien against the property owned by the debtor. This recordation ensures that the lien is tied directly to a specific piece of property, which enables creditors to seek payment through the sale of the property if necessary. By recording the judgment lien, it becomes public knowledge and is attached to the specific real estate, providing the creditor with a legal claim to enforce against the property's value. In contrast, the other options present inaccurate or misleading information regarding judgment liens in Hawaii. The duration of a judgment lien is generally not indefinite; it typically lasts for a limited duration after which it must be renewed to remain enforceable. Removal of a lien usually requires payment or satisfaction of the judgment, not just any act of removal. Additionally, judgment liens are not restricted to commercial properties; they can apply to both residential and commercial properties based on the ownership and