Wisconsin’s lien statutes provide this powerful remedy for contractors to secure rights to payment, but adherence to procedures is critical to ensuring a properly perfected and enforceable lien. It can be all too easy to make an error that makes it impossible to enforce your rights. We know this area of the law, because we helped write Wisconsin’s lien law.
Liens can also present challenges to project owners, lenders and general contractors to protect their financial interests in the property that is being improved. Understanding the lien process and the rights and remedies available is critical to protecting property from foreclosure and avoiding potential double payments required by statute.
We have experience in preparing and filing liens, and effective strategies to ensure liens are properly perfected, including calculating deadlines, obtaining proper service, leveraging liens to negotiate payments, and foreclosing liens through sheriff’s sale and refinancing.
We also have experience in defending against improper liens by establishing lien invalidity, filing of undertakings and bonds, actions for slander of title and theft by contractor, and advancing claims for title insurance coverage.
When it comes to liens, timing can be everything. Do not delay in seeking legal advice regarding your rights when it comes to liens.