LIS PENDENS – A notice recorded in the official records of a county to indicate that an action affecting a particular property has been filed in either a state or a federal court.
A lis pendens is just a recording that gives notice that a lawsuit is pending that affects title to the property. If there is a lis pendens, then there has to be a lawsuit. You will have to defend the lawsuit and you may be able to request that the lis pendens be removed. You need a lawyer.
The party filing a lis pendens or the party's agent or attorney shall sign the lis pendens, which must state: (1) the style and number, if any, of the proceeding; (2) the court in which the proceeding is pending; (3) the names of the parties; (4) the kind of proceeding; and (5) a description of the property affected.
After a Lis Pendens is filed, it becomes part of the public record, warning anyone interested in the property that it is involved in a legal dispute. The property owner may challenge the Lis Pendens in court, seeking to have it removed if it was improperly filed.
Cloud on Title: A lis pendens creates a “cloud” on the title of the property. This means that there is a potential legal issue or claim that could affect the property's ownership or use. Transfer Restrictions: While a lis pendens is in place, it can restrict the ability to transfer ownership of the property.
The importance of Lis Pendens in real estate cannot be overstated. It safeguards claimants (those asserting a legal right to the property) by preventing sales or transfers that could undermine their claims. For buyers and lenders, it provides transparency, ensuring they have all the facts before making decisions.
LIS PENDENS – A notice recorded in the official records of a county to indicate that an action affecting a particular property has been filed in either a state or a federal court.
Expunging a Lis Pendens This can happen if the party believes that the lis pendens was improperly filed or if the underlying lawsuit has been resolved. Court Hearing: If a party seeks expungement, the court will conduct a hearing to determine whether the lis pendens should be canceled.