What are the requirements to place a mechanic's lien on an automobile?
Full Question:
Answer:
While it is somewhat confusing, a “mechanic’s lien” ordinarily involves a lien on real property. For example, persons who furnish materials for building houses, are entitled to a lien on the house if not paid. The lien is used to enforce payment in order to clear the title to the real property, because real property with a lien on it cannot be easily sold until the lien is satisfied (paid off).
The Illinois Mechanics Lien Act does not cover disputes that arise out of fixing machines, like cars or trucks. Why? The answer is that the name was invented before there were cars or trucks, and really before there were very many machines at all. Back in the 1700's, anyone who did physical labor might be called a "mechanic," so it included people like carpenters, plumbers, and laborers. The name has just stayed the same while the technology of the world, and the way we talk about technology, has changed.
The Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White provides information regarding how to file a lien against a vehicle for which you have done repair work and/or provided storage. A Mechanics’ Lien Affirmation form published by the Illinois Secretary of State has been sent to you by separate e-mail. The web site is www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/vsd5268.pdf
