Default “Orders”, Default “Judgments” And “DWPs” – Illinois Quick Hits

Jackson v. Hooker, 397 Ill.App.3d 614 (1st Dist. 2010) is dated but relevant for its interesting procedural history and nuanced discussion of appellate procedure, the difference between default orders and default (money) judgments and the appropriate time to vacate a dismissal for want of prosecution (“DWP”). After obtaining an order of default against the defendant, the plaintiff …

Mechanics’ Lien Doesn’t Secure Attorneys’ Fees and Costs – Utah Supreme Court

Q: Does a mechanics lien secure payment of attorneys’ fees and costs (in addition to the amount of improvements) incurred by a lien claimant under the Utah mechanic’s lien statute? A: No. In an earlier article (http://paulporvaznik.com/contractors-attorneys-under-illinois-mechanics-lien-law/502) I tried to harmonize some Illinois cases that discuss whether attorneys’ fees can be added to a mechanics lien …

Motions to Dismiss Where The Same Parties Are (Already) Litigating In Another Forum

In Hergan v. Pawlan Law, LLC (2013 IL App 1st) 113812-U, the First District applies the “same parties, same cause” motion to dismiss rule. The plaintiff sued defendant and her lawyer based on fraudulent statements made in connection with various loan transactions stemming from a realty investment contract. There were some four (4) other lawsuits pending …