Securing a Judgment Lien on a New Jersey Workers' Compensation Order

To place a judgment lien on a New Jersey workers' compensation order, you must first obtain a court judgment confirming the employer's liability, then file the lien with the county clerk where the employer's property is located, and finally serve proper notice to the employer.

1. Obtain the Workers' Compensation Judgment

File a claim with the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation. If the employer disputes liability, the case proceeds to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Once the ALJ issues a decision in your favor, request a formal judgment from the Superior Court, which converts the ALJ order into a judgment enforceable as a lien.

2. Prepare the Lien Documents

Draft a lien affidavit that includes:

• The claimant's name and address
• The employer's legal name and property address
• The judgment amount, interest, and costs
• The specific workers' compensation case number

Attach a certified copy of the judgment and any supporting orders.

3. File the Lien with the County Clerk

Submit the affidavit and supporting documents to the clerk of the county where the employer's real property is situated. Pay the filing fee, which varies by county (typically $30‑$50). The clerk records the lien in the county land records, creating a cloud on the title.

4. Serve Notice to the Employer

Within ten days of filing, serve the employer (or their legal representative) a copy of the recorded lien via certified mail, return receipt requested, or personal delivery. This notice triggers the employer's right to contest the lien within 30 days.

5. Enforce or Release the Lien

If the employer does not contest, the lien remains until the judgment is satisfied or the lien expires (typically ten years in NJ). To enforce, you may initiate a foreclosure action on the property. To release, file a lien release with the clerk and provide notice to the employer.

Key Timeline Overview