Construction projects present unique legal and business issues for owners, general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. Cordatis has the experience and expertise to handle these problems. The firm’s Construction Law Practice represents owners and developers, architects and engineers, suppliers and subcontractors, and public and private entities at all critical phases of construction project management, from crafting comprehensive construction contracts to securing favorable resolutions when difficult disputes arise.

We offer specific expertise in several areas:

• Analyzing solicitation requirements and preparing bids and proposals
• Negotiating and drafting contracts, with particular emphasis on government construction projects
• Resolving project management and performance disputes
• Preparing and negotiating contract claims, including claims for delay (Eichleay claims)
• Resolving issues relating to CPM and other scheduling techniques
• Arbitrating and litigating construction contract disputes

Construction Contracts

Members of Cordatis’s Construction Law Practice bring a sophisticated and in-depth understanding of complex contractual arrangements construction clients face. We regularly advise clients on structuring contractual arrangements, complying with difficult submittal requirements, and preparing and negotiating the full complement of construction documents, including teaming agreements, subcontracts, escrow agreements, owner/architect contracts and construction management contracts. Whether a client wishes to modify standard contract documents, such as AIA agreements, or prepare customized agreements to meet unique or particular needs, Cordatis offers clients experienced counsel that takes into account the full range of legal and business issues that impact the contractual relationship. Our clients call upon the firm to provide legal interpretation and advice on issues such as:

• The interrelationship of plans and specifications
• The Buy American Act, the Davis Bacon Act, and other statutory or regulatory requirements
• Zoning and other local ordinances
• The preparation of CPM schedules and other project schedules
• The creation of safety plans and similar documents

Construction Disputes & Litigation

Cordatis provides effective advocacy for clients involved in construction contract disputes and construction litigation. At every stage of the construction project, the firm works with clients to prepare and negotiate change orders, cost proposals and requests for equitable adjustment in order to minimize risk and prevent unnecessary disputes from arising. Clients call upon the firm frequently to assist in issues relating to default terminations, termination for convenience settlements, actions on bonds under the Miller Act, and disputes relating to contract performance issues.

Although we attempt to address issues efficiently and effectively through negotiation wherever possible, our team includes experienced litigators who have successfully represented clients in numerous judicial and administrative forums, including state and federal courts, federal and state agency boards of contract appeals, as well as in arbitrations under the rules of the American Arbitration Association and other entities.