Lien clock

Definition

The dated steps between taking a vehicle in and being allowed to sell it.

Why It Matters

Florida runs the tightest version and it is all deadlines. A storage fee cannot be charged at all under six hours. The notice of lien goes by certified mail to the registered owner, the insurer and every other lienholder within five business days of storage. Notice of the sale itself goes out at least thirty days ahead, and the vehicle cannot be sold for thirty-five days if it is an older model or fifty-seven if it is newer. Records of every vehicle recovered, towed, stored or released are kept three years, and missing them is a first-degree misdemeanor on its own. Counties are required to set maximum rates, so the ceiling is local and a buyer has to read the county's schedule.