In order for a mechanics lien claim to be valid, the claimant must be defined as contractor or subcontractor as described in the Mechanics Lien Act. In this article, we’ll discuss the various methods for evaluating the validity of a mechanics lien in Illinois. We cover topics such as the proper prerequisites to a mechanics lien, the difference between contractors and subcontractors and the work must have been done to satisfy a lien, information necessary in a mechanics lien, and deadline associated with filing a claim.