What type of lien is placed against a primary residence as part of a court proceeding for damages?

The correct answer is an attachment lien, which is a legal instrument that allows a creditor to place a lien on a debtor's property, such as a primary residence, as part of a court proceeding. This type of lien is often used to ensure that the property remains available to satisfy a potential judgment against the homeowner in the future.

In the context of court proceedings for damages, an attachment lien serves to protect the creditor's interest while the lawsuit is ongoing, effectively preventing the debtor from selling or refinancing the property without addressing the outstanding claims. This legal measure underscores the urgency and necessity of safeguarding a creditor's ability to collect what is owed once a judgment has been rendered.

Other types of liens mentioned, such as voluntary liens, arise from the property owner's actions, such as taking out a mortgage. A mortgage lien is a specific type of voluntary lien that secures the lender's interest in the property until the loan is paid off. An equitable lien is a different concept, often related to fairness in transactions and may arise through a court’s decree but is not specifically tied to a court proceeding for damages like an attachment lien is.