how to file a lis pendens
a lis pendens can only be filed if an action is pending additionally the pending suit must involve real property such as land and buildings if these requirements are not met the notice can be expunged filing requirements vary by state but generally there are two steps first a lawsuit must be filed with the county clerk and the suit must be pending second the lis pendens must be recorded in the county land records so that it can be attached to the property s title filing the lis pendens generally serves as the notice that there is a dispute on the property but the requirements to serve notice also vary by state because lis pendens requirements vary by state you should contact a real estate lawyer in your area to learn if you need to file one and how it is served it is possible to draft a lis pendens yourself based on information you can find online however this is a complex document that uses specific wording one error or mistake can cause it to be expunged so it is best to have an attorney familiar with real estate laws in your area prepare it if you can t afford an attorney you may be able to find public assistance programs in your area that can help frequently asked questions