Construction Law
Project Agreements
Effective containment of risk and expense in construction projects begins with carefully prepared project agreements. Properly crafted contract language avoids disputes that might stall or delay timely completion, and can limit exposure when claims are pressed. The project agreement drafting process requires a comprehensive knowledge of all the elements of a construction project from scheduling provisions to provisions for extra or disputed work.
Stuart Levine has over forty years of experience in drafting and reviewing project contracts. He understands how a project works and he is aware of the significant pitfalls to performance and completion of projects. Stuart provides architects, contractors and owners with project- specific, tailored advice on the advisability and content of contract provisions with the goal of maximizing protection of the client’s stake in the project.
Project Advice
When disagreements on a construction project occur, sound, well-documented positions should be taken promptly, with a view to early resolution where possible, and the development of a defensible strategy where it is not.
One of the most cost effective legal services provided by Stuart Levine is evaluating and negotiating resolutions of construction project problems as soon as they arise.
Stuart’s ability to speak the language of construction and to understand what motivates the various parties enables him to resolve disagreements to his client’s advantage.
Construction Litigation
Construction Projects Delays or Defects - In cases where project litigation is necessary on technical issues, scheduling and cost records must be analyzed and understood, because effective litigation strategy depends upon a comprehensive understanding of the facts.
Stuart Levine’s years of experience and familiarity with the construction industry enable him to quickly and comprehensively isolate and grasp project related facts. This factual grasp, which allows development of strategy tailored to the case, provides the client with a decisive edge in obtaining successful results whether a case goes to trial or is settled. .
Settlement
Successful, cost effective resolution of a case often means settling it, whether the client is an owner, contractor, design professional or architect.
Where global settlements are not practical, Stuart has repeatedly developed creative strategies for separate settlements of specific issues with specific parties, isolating and reducing the issues and parties.
Cost Considerations
Success in construction litigation is ultimately driven by cost considerations. Current and anticipated costs are discussed with the client on an ongoing basis and compared with the likelihood of a successful result. A competitive fee schedule and ongoing sensitivity to the settlement opportunities combine to produce cost controls that enhance the value of favorable results.