Need to get lien on a car...any idea how?

[yosshimura]

I have someone who owes me a sum of cash. Their car paid off, with wholesale of low-mid five figures, they have offered for me to take title to the car as security, with a signed Agreement. How can make sure I have rights to that car before anyone else filing a lien on that car?

I mean, I can get a promisary note but if some creditor wants to come and take his assets, including paid off car, I am out... I want to make sure my name is there for first dibs on that car should he not pay.

Any ideas? I mean this is what those title loan companies do in the poor parts of town.... I imagine they take the customer's car,and I could probably do the same.

Any one in legal that knows?