Much of the time of a construction lawyer is spent assisting clients in finding solutions to the many problems that befall the typical construction project. These problems range from simple contract preparation and negotiation to the more fact-intensive work of constructive defect litigation, surety claims, liens, and payment issues. Each construction project, no matter how complex or simple, involves the same basic issues:

• What is the scope of work that the parties agreed to?

• What documents or plans define the scope of work?

• How is the contractor to be paid for his work?

• How can the owner be assured that the contractor is doing the work properly?

• What is to be done when there are issues or problems with respect to any of the above?

The job of the construction attorney is to help chart a course through this minefield and ideally resolve issues without judicial intervention.

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