What is a mechanic's lien primarily used for in New Mexico?

A mechanic's lien is primarily employed as a legal claim to secure payment for labor or materials provided in the construction or improvement of real property. In New Mexico, this mechanism allows contractors, subcontractors, and material suppliers to assert their right to collect payment when they have not been compensated for their work. The lien attaches to the property that was improved, ensuring that the payment obligation is prioritized in the event of a sale or refinance.

This legal tool is essential in the construction industry because it provides a level of protection for those who contribute their services and materials, ensuring they can recover debts owed to them. The process involves filing a lien notice with the county clerk where the property is located, which serves as a public record of the claim. This can create an urgent incentive for property owners to settle outstanding payments to avoid potential foreclosure on the property due to the lien.

The other options do not accurately represent the function of a mechanic's lien. For instance, claiming ownership of a vehicle relates to a different area of law, while enforcing contract terms and filing grievances against contractors do not specifically connect to the payment claims that mechanic's liens are designed to facilitate. Thus, option B accurately describes the primary purpose of a mechanic's lien in New Mexico.