I agree with seesthru. Normally the "lien" threat is intended to really intimidate and frighten somebody into caving. As I understand it a lien doesn't yield any payment until property is sold or is in probate when somebody passes away.
I think that the other factor in your favor, Lori, is that you put an immediate stop payment on the check instead of letting it clear and then you bringing the cleaner to court months up the road.