Each state has its own legal process for these actions. Strict compliance with the law is necessary.In Washington, a property lien can be used to collect a court judgment. Here's how it works. You can't pay bills with a judgment: How to turn a court victory into a judgment lien, and use it to collect from your customer's property. Welcome to Washington State Courts. Along with the affidavit from the newspaper, you will need the following documents: MOTION FOR CLERK'S DEFAULT. A judgment becomes a lien on real property for a period of 10 years. S.D. Codified Laws § 15-16-7. Judgment liens on personal property in Florida are filed with the Florida Department of State.