I work for a car dealership and we had a small claims judgment against a customer. She brought her car in for service and I was wondering if we legally have to release it back to her?
This is a classic common-law mechanic's lien situation. As a general matter, if you are in possession of the customer's vehicle and the customer owes you money for work performed on the vehicle, you may retain possession until the customer pays. Your mileage may vary under the specific circumstances of this case. Consult a local attorney.
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