Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Re: Mechinics Lein

As to liens on a vessel, you should try the Coast Guard, not the DMV. This isn't a vehicle.

Also, mechanic's lien is probably the wrong term. Mechanic's liens have to do with works of improvement to real property. A vessel of this kind would not be real property. Nor would an ordinary repairman's possessory lien under Civil Code 3051 apply if this is a vessel as defined in section 21 of the Harbors and Navigation Code.

If LawGuru has an Admiralty Law topic heading, I'd suggest you ask again under that topic.

Re: Mechinics Lein

Given the size of the ship I assume 300 ft. wasn't a typo), it is almost guaranteed not a DMV titled vessel and rather is a USCG Documented (or under foreign flag) vessel, which comes under primarily Federal jurisdiction (again, unless flying under foreign flag). Even if it is an aboration, and is DMV titled, you are going to have to contact a Maritime attorney, as the issue of title and lien rights is not covered by general California Mechanics Lien Law, but rather by Federal & State Maritime Law. There are a few good firms in the Long Beach area that specialize in maritime law, as I am sure there are some in the SF Bay Area as well. Maritime law is very unique, so make sure you contact a firm that specializes in nothing but Maritime Law. Good luck - sounds like a real project.

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