Guest post by Danielle Rodabaugh, a writer at suretybonds.com

Even though contractors know they need to file surety bonds before they can begin work on many projects, they might still be confused about the potential legal implications that can be involved with the process.

U.S. News and World Report has named Bowles & Verna, LLP a top Commercial Litigation law firm.

Bowles & Verna is a general civil practice law firm with a strong emphasis in civil litigation and dispute resolution. The firm also serves a growing number of companies as business and corporate counsel. Located in Walnut Creek, California, across the bay from San Francisco, the firm was founded in 1985. Its principal attorneys all have backgrounds with major regional firms. The firm handles legal matters throughout California, and its central location is ideally suited for efficient management of legal matters throughout Northern California, including the greater San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento and the Central Valley.

Two small changes are set to have a large impact on California’s Mechanic’s Lien Law in 2011. The changes, which became effective January 1, 2011, place new notice requirements on lien claimants and provide property owners with defenses against liens if lien claimants fail to comply with the new notice requirements.