Legal Definitions - charging lien

A charging lien is a type of attorney's lien that gives the lawyer the right to claim a portion of any money paid to the client due to a judgment. This lien arises when the client fails to pay for legal services.

For example, if a lawyer represents a client in a personal injury case and the client wins a settlement, but fails to pay the lawyer's fees, the lawyer can place a charging lien on the settlement. This means that the lawyer can claim a portion of the settlement to cover their fees.

Another example is if a lawyer represents a client in a divorce case and the client receives spousal support payments, but fails to pay the lawyer's fees. The lawyer can place a charging lien on the spousal support payments, allowing them to claim a portion of the payments to cover their fees.

Overall, a charging lien is a way for lawyers to ensure that they are paid for their services, even if the client fails to pay. It gives the lawyer a legal right to claim a portion of any money paid to the client due to a judgment.