Which statement best describes a general lien?

Which statement best describes a general lien?

• A. A lien that encumbers all property of the debtor
• B. A lien that encumbers only the specific property
• C. A tax lien
• D. A mortgage

Answer: (B)

A general lien attaches to all property owned by the debtor, real and personal, not just a single asset. This means the creditor can reach any of the debtor’s assets to satisfy the debt, making the lien broader in scope. In contrast, a lien that encumbers only the specific property is attached to that particular asset and does not affect the debtor’s other property. A mortgage is a classic example of a lien on a single described property, while tax liens are typically considered general because they attach to all property owned to secure payment of the tax debt. Therefore, describing a general lien as encumbering all property captures its defining characteristic.

A general lien attaches to all property owned by the debtor, real and personal, not just a single asset. This means the creditor can reach any of the debtor’s assets to satisfy the debt, making the lien broader in scope. In contrast, a lien that encumbers only the specific property is attached to that particular asset and does not affect the debtor’s other property. A mortgage is a classic example of a lien on a single described property, while tax liens are typically considered general because they attach to all property owned to secure payment of the tax debt. Therefore, describing a general lien as encumbering all property captures its defining characteristic.