A mechanic’s lien is a privilege authorized by state law that permits contractors, suppliers and certain qualifying construction professionals who have provided labour or materials to improve real property to publicly record the value of the unpaid improvements against the property owner’s title. A judgment lien is created after a party has prevailed in a formal lawsuit.
A judgment lien is arguably more potent than a mechanic’s lien because it is associated with the party who lost the lawsuit rather than simply attaching to the improved property. However, pursuing a judgment lien by filing a lawsuit is less assured and more expensive than recording a mechanic’s lien claim.