Boat Documentation Explained: the Notice of Claim of Lien

Boat Documentation Explained: the Notice of Claim of Lien

Are you contemplating the strategic move of initiating a “Notice of Claim of Lien” against someone, but find navigating the process challenging? Perhaps you’re a diligent worker left high and dry by a vessel owner who owes you for your toil. If so, we may be able to help. Here at the National Documentation Portal, we offer a comprehensive range of United States Coast Guard documentation services, including the “Notice of Claim of Lien.”

It’s imperative to note that merely completing and submitting this form through our platform does not guarantee the enforcement of your lien or automatic compensation. The merits of your claim must pass legal scrutiny. We strongly advise seeking legal counsel to determine the legitimacy of your claim before filing this form through our site. 

Where the Notice of Claim of Lien Comes From 

A “Notice of Claim of Lien” is often filed when financial dues remain unpaid or when one party has inflicted damage upon another’s property without recompense. Every vessel, each vessel owner, and the circumstances therein are unique. However, these scenarios consistently emerge as some of the most prevalent reasons for filing a “Notice of Claim of Lien” through our services.

Maritime liens primarily stem from breached contracts, maritime torts, and analogous transgressions. Consider unpaid crew wages. If you’ve served as a crew member on another’s vessel and been shortchanged, filing a lien may be the right course of action. Other scenarios encompass breached charters, unpaid freight charges, and others.

Another common catalyst for liens is damage, be it inflicted upon the vessel itself or upon individuals. Whether injuries occur onboard, during a collision, or through other mishaps, a valid case for a “Notice of Claim of Lien” may emerge. Outstanding bills for dockage, towage, repairs, crew provisions, and other services can also trigger the need to issue these notices.

Navigating the Labyrinth of the Notice of Claim of Lien Process

Filing a “Notice of Claim of Lien” is applicable to virtually any documented vessel. While the initial notice to the vessel owner is essential (signaling your intent to file a lien), it’s not the sole recipient. If there exists a mortgage on the vessel, it’s crucial to notify all mortgage holders as well. Following these preliminary steps, you can proceed to submit the claim through our platform.

The Preferred Ship’s Mortgage 

As you may know, one of the primary motivations for documenting a vessel is to secure financing through a Preferred Ship’s Mortgage. What may be less evident is that most preferred ship’s mortgages prohibit the imposition of additional liens (apart from the mortgage) on the vessel. This serves as a powerful incentive for vessel owners.

If they neglect to satisfy your lien, it could lead to significant problems for the vessel owner. A “Notice of Claim of Lien” can be a formidable tool for obtaining your rightful dues.

Boat Documentation Explained: the Notice of Claim of Lien

A National Documentation Portal for Boat Documentation 

Filing a “Notice of Claim of Lien” via our platform marks just one stride toward claiming what is rightfully yours, albeit a pivotal one. We cannot vouch for the legality of your claim. What we can do is to streamline and simplify the process, offering access to applications for this specific piece of documentation and beyond. To explore the complete array of forms we offer and the multitude of ways we can assist, head to our site.