Emalfarb Law LLC
Illinois Mechanic Lien and Construction Payment Dispute Attorney
Representation for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers in mechanic liens, bond claims, and construction payment disputes throughout Illinois.
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Trusted by Illinois Contractors and Construction Professionals
Our clients across Chicago, Cook County, and throughout Illinois rely on Emalfarb Law LLC to protect their mechanic lien rights and recover payments on construction projects. See what verified clients say about working with our construction law attorneys.
TrustScore 4.7 out of 5
Based on 26 reviews
Not your typical law firm
I am the principal of a small Commercial Subcontracting firm in business 25 years. I have had attorneys come and go, with lots of disappointments. By contrast, these guys are the real deal. Talented, knowledgeable and efficient. Don't waste your time elsewhere, get them on your team now.
January 2025
Trust Emalfarb for resolution
This was our first time engaging legal council for a dispute. Thomas listened to our legal challenge, provided his expertise throughout the process and took the time to explain the process. He is efficient with his time and proactive with outreach and follow up. Our issue had been going on over a year and after engaging Thomas; matter was resolved expediently and to our satisfaction.
November 2024
Absolute awesome job
Absolute awesome job. Helped collect 100% of what was owed to me. I didn't think it was possible, but I was wrong.
February 2026
Highly Professional and Reliable
Thomas was extremely helpful and responsive throughout the process. He guided me clearly with every step of the bond and lien request, making everything much easier and stress-free. I truly appreciate his professionalism and kindness. Highly recommend!
October 2025
Illinois Mechanic Lien and Construction Disputes
Emalfarb Law LLC specializes in construction law and is focused exclusively on mechanics liens, payment bond claims, and secured creditor remedies. We represent contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and lenders throughout Illinois in enforcing lien rights, bond claims, and payment remedies on private, public, and federal construction projects.
Illinois Mechanic Liens
Filing and enforcement of mechanic liens under the Illinois Mechanics Lien Act (770 ILCS 60) for contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers.
Learn moreIllinois Mechanic Lien Filing Deadlines
Navigate critical 90-day notice, 4-month recording, and 2-year enforcement deadlines that protect your construction payment rights in Illinois.
Learn moreIllinois Mechanic Lien Filing Process
Step-by-step guidance through the strict compliance requirements of Illinois lien law, from preliminary notices to lien foreclosure.
Learn moreIllinois Public & Private Projects
Understanding the differences between private mechanic liens and public fund liens, payment bond claims, and the Illinois Public Construction Bond Act.
Learn moreIllinois Mechanics Lien Authority
Construction payment disputes are governed by strict statutes and unforgiving deadlines. Missing a notice requirement or filing window can permanently extinguish otherwise valid claims. Emalfarb Law LLC advises and represents clients in:
- Illinois Mechanic Liens under the Illinois Mechanics Lien Act [770 ILCS 60]
- Illinois payment bond claims on public projects
- Federal Miller Act claims
- Lien foreclosure and enforcement actions
- Construction contract and payment disputes
- Secured creditor and UCC enforcement matters
Construction Project Planning
Illinois mechanic lien law is technical and deadline driven. Rights differ depending on whether the claimant is a general contractor, subcontractor, or material supplier, and whether the project is residential, commercial, or public.
- Notice to owner requirements
- Illinois Section 24 notice requirements for subcontractors
- General contractor, subcontractor and supplier lien deadlines
- Mechanic lien perfection, recording, and service requirements
- Mechanic lien foreclosure deadlines and strategies
- Priority disputes and lien challenges
Why Construction Companies Hire Emalfarb Law LLC
- We focus exclusively on construction payment law
- We understand every statutory deadline and notice requirement
- We litigate lien and bond claims aggressively
- We advise proactively before rights are lost
- We communicate clearly with business decision makers
Our goal is to secure your receivables. Enforce your claims. Enhance your recoveries.
Who We Represent
Serving Contractors Across Illinois
Based in Northbrook, Illinois, Emalfarb Law LLC represents clients throughout Chicago, Cook County including Arlington Heights, Cicero, Evanston, Hoffman Estates, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Schaumburg, Skokie, and Tinley Park.
We also serve DuPage County including Aurora, Naperville, and Wheaton; Lake County including Buffalo Grove, Highland Park, Mundelein, and Waukegan; and Will and McHenry Counties with nationwide reach for lien and bond matters across all 50 states.
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