Recording a judgment lien in Maricopa County is a crucial step in securing a creditor’s legal claim against a debtor’s real property.
But how long does the process actually take?
Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Obtain a Certified Judgment (1-5 Days)
Before filing a lien, you must obtain a certified copy of the judgment from the court where the case was decided.
Processing Time:
- Same day if obtained in person at the courthouse.
- 1-5 business days if requested online or by mail.
Pro Tip: Visit the court in person for the fastest turnaround.
Step 2: Prepare the Judgment Lien Form (1-2 Days)
A judgment lien must be filed with the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office.
Required Information:
- Debtor’s name & address
- Creditor’s name & address
- Judgment details (amount, court case number, and date of judgment)
Processing Time:
- Same day if all information is readily available.
- 1-2 days if legal assistance is needed for accuracy.
Pro Tip: Ensure all details match the court records to avoid delays.
Step 3: File the Judgment Lien with the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office (1-3 Days)
The Maricopa County Recorder’s Office handles the official recording of liens.
Filing Options:
- In person at the Recorder’s Office.
- Online via eRecording services.
- By mail (takes longer).
Processing Time:
- Same-day if filed in person.
- 1-2 business days for electronic filing.
- Up to 2 weeks if sent by mail.
Pro Tip: eRecording is the fastest method. Many legal document services offer eRecording options.
Step 4: Judgment Lien Becomes Public Record (Immediately to 3 Days)
Once recorded, the lien is officially attached to the debtor’s property and becomes a matter of public record.
This can impact property sales or refinancing.
Processing Time:
- Instant for electronic filings.
- 1-3 days for manual filings.
Pro Tip: Check the Maricopa County Recorder’s online portal to confirm the lien status.
Total Time to Record a Judgment Lien in Maricopa County
| Obtain Certified Judgment | Same day to 5 days |
| Prepare Judgment Lien Form | Same day to 2 days |
| File with Recorder’s Office | Same day to 3 days (longer by mail) |
| Lien Becomes Public Record | Instant to 3 days |
| Total Estimated Time | 1-10 days (depending on filing method) |
- Fastest Scenario: 1-2 days if all steps are completed in person or via eRecording.
- Slowest Scenario: Up to 2 weeks if using mail or waiting on court document requests.
Final Thought: How to Speed Up the Process
- Want it done fast? Get your certified judgment in person and file via eRecording.
- Going the slow route? Expect up to 10+ days if relying on mail and standard court processing.
In Maricopa County, efficiency is key—go digital whenever possible!
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