Towing Issues: tow liens in Alabama, 2000 chevy malibu, chevy malibu

Question
I have a tow company in Alabama.  My question is about impounded vehicles.  I was always under the impression that once we towed a vehicle we in effect had possessory lien over the vehicle until the impound and storage fees were paid.

There are several "tote the note" lots in our area.  That means the cars sold there are financed on the dealer's premises.  We impound several of these cars for various reasons for the local police department.

One of the dealer's lawyers has demanded a release on a 2000 Chevy Malibu.  He states that since his client is the lienholder with a secured interest in the car (title),he can retrieve the car without paying impound and storage fees---which leaves us with nothing.  Ever hear of this?


Thanks,

David

Answer
Well, you are correct in the fact that Alabama lacks a valid lien law.
I believe that the association has tried to get one several times, and been shot down several times by the big Lobby groups.

If you can check with the president of the association (Steve weil) up in Birmingham he might update you of the latest changes...
Sad to say that while I am in Alabama I have missed any changes that happened in the recent past..

Of course you know that other peoples lawyers might try to steer you wrong by saying things which are not correct.. I have had the "tote the note" people tell me the same thing, but we have kept the vehicle till paid..

Now one other thing is that tows ordered by police departments have different status at times.. There was one senate bill from 1998 that mentioned liens on tows ordered by law enforcement agencies.