Hiring a Construction Lawyer [Expectations vs. Reality]
If you work in construction, then you already know that most working sites are vulnerable to legalities. This could be due to federally-mandated restrictions, the potential for hazards, and the task of communicating changes between multiple parties.
From a family’s dream home to commercial, sports stadiums, and airports, any construction project—big or small—can include any (or all) of the following participants:
- Property owners
- Real estate investors
- Land developers
- Architects & engineers
- General contractors
- Construction managers
- Material suppliers
- Labor unions
- Equipment rental companies
- Insurance companies
- Crew workers, and more!
With so many parties involved, the potential for disagreements and miscommunications is extremely high. Hiring an experienced construction lawyer can help protect your interests, as well as keep your project on schedule.
You may be wondering what exactly construction lawyers do, or who they represent. In this article, we’ll provide a clear picture of what you can expect when hiring a construction lawyer for your next construction project.
Expectations vs. Assumptions
Most clients expect construction lawyers to help write and review contracts, help them meet zoning law compliance, or address any accidents or disputes that may arise. This may include:
- Jobsite injuries
- Construction defects
- Payment delay
Though these matters are important and can impact the future success of your business, a construction lawyer does much more than that! In fact, there is often the assumption that you only interact with your construction lawyer at the beginning of the process—and that relationship is mostly transactional.
Once construction is underway, the lawyer will only need to be consulted should a problem arise.
Reality of a Construction Lawyer
The truth is a construction lawyer is essential to your business for a variety of reasons.
For one thing, construction lawyers are well-versed in your industry. Many represent a variety of clients, from individuals and property owners, to large companies, federal projects, and sureties.
In addition to drafting contracts and meeting zoning compliance, construction lawyers will assist you with a myriad of other issues, such as:
- Project scheduling
- Project budgeting
- Acquiring building permits
- Filing liens or bond claims
- Meeting OSHA & other agency safety standards
- Payment issues
- Employment immigration
- Terminations
- Bankruptcy
- Avoiding litigation, arbitration, or other legal conflicts
If working on a project with many moving parts, you’ll want to consult with your construction lawyer through every step of the process—on both a transactional and advisory level.
Ultimately, an experienced construction lawyer will counsel you in a preventive manner, anticipating any disputes that may come up along the way to save you time, money, and stress.
Need a Construction Lawyer Near You?
As an extension of your construction team, a construction lawyer provides the support, tools, and industry insights to keep you protected and your business thriving.
Contact us at KTF Law Firm today to learn more about bringing construction law expertise to your team. We look forward to working with you!
