"n. a lien on property imposed by a court in order to achieve fairness, particularly when someone has possession of property which he/she holds for another. See also: constructive trust equity lien "
A lien imposed on property by statute, a tax lien, for example--in contrast to an equitable lien, which arises out of common law.
A lien arising out of common law - in contrast to a statutory lien, which is imposed on property by statute.
Written contract or court judgment placing a lien on a parcel of property as collateral for a loan.