I am a licensed Architect in California and have unpaid design fees for a project that has not yet obtained a Building Permit or started construction. I will be filing a lien and am unsure of the process?
You might have a Design Professional Lien. Note that a building permit or other governmental approval in furtherance of the work of improvement must have been obtained in connection with or utilizing the services rendered by the design professional. You should consult with an experienced construction attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options!