A lien is nothing more than a property interest that secures a debt. A statutory lien is a lien that is created by law or statute, usually in favor of a taxing authority, like the state or the IRS. A statutory lien in proceeds from a personal injury lawsuit or settlement could also arise in favor of a state that pays for medical care. The most important thing to keep in mind about a lien is that it relates to a specific piece of property.