You are right, there is a difference,and I apologize for not being clearer in the original post.  In Wisconsin, if you file a case against a debtor and you can show that you are actually owed the money, the court will file a judgment against the debtor. 

Several years ago, we had a customer file bankruptcy and close their doors and we were paid .30 on the dollar for the $1000 they owed us.  If we had filed a lawsuit, were awarded a judgment and docketed (perfected) it, would our lien have any kind of priority over other monies owed?

Judgments docketed against individuals are effective, especially if they own a home, but I don't have any knowledge of the effectiveness of filing them against a corporation.  If you have any experience with this, I'd appreciate it.  Thank you :)