Generally, filing fees for legal documents, including Lis Pendens, are determined by the local government or court where the filing takes place. These fees can range from a relatively low amount to several hundred dollars.
Recording with the Circuit Court Clerk: Once drafted, the lis pendens memorandum must be recorded with the Circuit Court Clerk in the jurisdiction where the property is located. Recording ensures that the memorandum becomes part of the public record and is accessible to anyone conducting due diligence on the property.
The doctrine requires more than a mere allegation of a pending suit; it requires proof the prior case is the same, the parties are substantially the same, and the relief requested is the same. This three-pronged identity test must be strictly applied when a party seeks to dismiss a claim under the doctrine.
A memorandum of lis pendens admitted to record in an action to enforce a zoning ordinance shall expire after 180 days.
For judgments entered in a general district court on or after January 1, 1985, no execution shall be issued or action brought on such judgment, including a judgment in favor of the Commonwealth, after ten years from the date of such judgment except as provided in § 16.1-69.55 B 4.
The Massachusetts lis pendens statute serves to protect the rights of the property owner as well. A memorandum of lis pendens associated with a parcel of real estate creates a “cloud on title” to the property, which can have harsh consequences.
Judgment Liens: State Va. Code §8.01-458 and 8.01-251 Expire 20 years from date entered, and may be renewed for an additional 20 years If real estate has been conveyed to a BFP, the lien is unenforceable 10 years after date of transfer. Known as “10 year out of title” rule.
One tool often utilized is the filing of a lis pendens, a Latin term meaning "suit pending." In Virginia, the lis pendens memorandum serves as a notice to prospective buyers, lenders, or interested parties that a property is subject to a claim involved in litigation.