What is a Possessory Lien?

A possessory lien gives a creditor the authority to possess the property that is subject to the lien until the borrower has paid the subject debt or loan. A lien refers to a legal claim that a person has over somebody else’s property. The lien allows the subject property so serve as security for the payment a debt. A lien does not offer ownership over the security, instead it is a kind of encumbrance.