Kevin's firm handled setting up my will and trust recently. They took something that seemed intimidating and made it easy to understand. I've also referred a couple clients to Kevin - he's trustworthy, approachable and very fairly priced.
"I've used Kevin and his firm's services since 2011. He gave undivided attention to my cases, advised me on different options and..."
"Kevin was extremely professional, responsive and knowledgeable when I came to him for help. I would definitely recommend O'Flaherty Law!"
Choosing the right law firm can change everything. At O’Flaherty Law, we pride ourselves on transparency, responsiveness, and personalized care. See how we compare to the industry standard.
A mechanic’s lien can be an important tool where a contractor, subcontractor or supplier has provided labor or materials but has not been paid. A properly filed lien can create a claim against the improved property, giving the unpaid party additional leverage in seeking payment. Illinois has specific rules about who can file a lien, what notices need to be provided, what information needs to be provided, and when action needs to be taken. Missing one of these requirements may impact whether a lien can be enforced.
Timing is especially critical in Illinois mechanic’s lien cases. Typically, contractors must file a lien within four months after completion to be able to maintain lien rights against certain third parties (such as subsequent purchasers or lenders). Subcontractors are generally required to serve the required written notice within 90 days after they have completed their work or have furnished their final materials. An action to enforce a mechanic’s lien must be brought within two years after completion of the contract or qualifying additional work. Since the right deadline will depend on the circumstances, dealing with a payment dispute early can safeguard your options.
O’Flaherty Law represents clients on both sides of mechanics lien disputes. We can assist contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers seeking payment, as well as homeowners, businesses, developers, and other property owners facing a lien on their property. Our attorneys can review contracts and payment records, prepare or evaluate notices and lien documents, negotiate releases and settlements, and represent clients when a dispute requires litigation. We emphasize straightforward discussion of your options and an attainable solution to the dispute.
Please contact our friendly lawyers to Schedule a Consultation.
The purpose of a consultation is to determine whether our firm is a good fit for your legal needs. Although we often discuss expected results and costs, our attorneys do not give legal advice unless and until you choose to retain us.
33 N. County St., Ste. 505
Waukegan, IL 60085
I am personally committed to ensuring that each one of our clients receives the highest level of client service from our team. Our mission is to provide excellent legal work in a cost-effective manner while maintaining open lines of communication between our clients and their attorneys. Many of our clients are going through difficult times in their lives when they reach out to us. They should feel comfortable leaning on the experience and knowledge of our attorneys as their counselors and advocates. We are here to help!

Potentially. Illinois law recognizes that additional labor, services, or materials may affect a mechanic's lien claim. Whether the additional work is lienable depends on the facts, the parties' agreement, and compliance with the Mechanics Lien Act. Extra work can also affect certain filing deadlines, so keeping clear records of change orders, invoices, approvals, and completion dates is important.
A property owner does not necessarily have to accept a lien simply because it was recorded. The lien can be reviewed to determine whether the claimant followed Illinois notice, filing, timing, and other legal requirements. Depending on the circumstances, the owner may seek a voluntary release, negotiate the dispute, or challenge the lien through the appropriate court process.
No. Recording a lien can provide significant leverage and preserve a claim against the property, but it does not automatically result in payment. If the dispute cannot be resolved, the lien claimant may need to file a lawsuit to enforce the lien. Under Illinois law, an enforcement action generally must be filed within two years after completion of the contract or qualifying additional work.