In Virginia, a judgment lien can be attached to real estate, but not to personal property. How does a creditor go about getting a judgment lien in Virginia?Any lien on any real estate, consensual or judicial, must appear in the county land records to be effective. You will not be arrested if you do not pay your debts, bills, or judgments. Not paying your debts, bills or judgments is not a crime. "This book continues to be the go-to reference manual for anyone seeking to enforce a judgment or lien in Virginia. Exemptions: Virginia law protects portions of your property from liens and seizure, like your primary residence up to a certain equity value. Such property is exempt. The Sheriff may not take or "levy on" certain property (§§ 34-26 and 34-27 of the Code of Virginia). A judgment lien on real or personal property expires after 20 years.