Which of the following is an example of a voluntary lien?

A mortgage is classified as a voluntary lien because it arises from an agreement between the borrower and the lender. When a borrower takes out a mortgage to finance the purchase of property, they willingly sign a contract that grants the lender a secured interest in that property. This means that if the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender has the right to foreclose on the property to recover the debt.

In contrast, a mechanics lien, an income tax lien, and a judgment lien are examples of involuntary liens. A mechanics lien is placed by a contractor or subcontractor who has not been paid for work they have performed and does not require the property owner's consent. An income tax lien can be imposed by the government for unpaid taxes, again without the taxpayer's consent. A judgment lien can occur when a creditor obtains a court ruling against a debtor, leading to a lien against the debtor's property, which they did not voluntarily create.

This distinction between voluntary and involuntary liens is important in understanding property rights and obligations associated with borrowing and property ownership.