Legal Question in Construction Law in Colorado

It is not an either or proposition. You should file a lien to protect your rights and maybe get them to negotiate matters. You then can file a lawsuit to get to a judgment and possibly foreclose on the lien (on the assumption that the amount at issue would warrant the cost of the process).

You should speak with an attorney about the lien as they must be completed and served in a certain manner. Good luck.

This answer is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice regarding your question. This answer does not establish an attorney-client relationship.