Removing a Lis Pendens in California Other than resolution of the pending lawsuit, the only way to remove a lis pendens is by expungement, which requires a court order from a circuit judge.
There is no specific time frame for how long a lis pendens is valid. Rather, a lis pendens is valid until it is expunged or the underlying case is resolved. If not expunged, a lis pendens is often removed as part of a settlement agreement reached between the parties.
Only an attorney or the court can sign a lis pendens. If your attorney filed the lis pendens, then ask her to sign and record a Notice of Withdrawal of Lis Pendens. Give a copy of the title officer. You can record a certified copy of the dismissal of the case and that will extinguish a lis pendens.
To file a lis pendens, the party filing must have or show one of two things: That there is a recorded instrument, usually some mortgage or encumbrance, or perhaps something related to a construction mechanics lien—that potentially provides the filer the right to the property on or in the document.