California Code, Public Resources Code - PRC § 3681

The lien shall be a first lien on the production and otherwise shall be of the same nature and subject to foreclosure in the same manner and within the same time as mechanics' liens. In any case where the lien claimant is in possession of the production which is subject to the lien, the supervisor may authorize the lien claimant to sell such production or so much thereof as may be necessary to satisfy such lien, provided that the supervisor shall hold or arrange for the holding of the proceeds of such sale for appropriate distribution upon a determination of the controversy.