A plumber did some work in a bathroom. The new marble counter was scratched when his worker installed a faucet. The plumber left a bill. I had told him about the scratches and I was in the process of finding someone reputable to fix the marred surface. He left a message on my phone telling me that if he was not paid by Friday that he would put a lien on my home. Can he do this or will he have to go to court? What else can happen?

In most states, a contractor who claims he has not been paid for his services, can file a lien against your property. I am not an attorney nor do I know what the law, procedures are in your state --- my experience comes from writing "release of lien bond" for condo owners who have disputes with contractors who file liens for their work. Maybe a call to an attorney is in order so you get accurate advice based on the law in your state.

By the way, can we assume you are in Alabama ?