Understanding Construction Disputes and How an Attorney Can Help

by James J Corbett New York Civil Litigation Lawyer

Construction law in NYC is a multidimensional area encompassing a wide range of operations related to construction projects in the Big Apple, from residential to commercial. This expansive area of law helps prevent possible disputes from arising while resolving those that occur during the project life cycle. Because the construction of a building involves a great deal of coordination between numerous professionals—contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, architects, developers, and so on—planning is necessary.

If you want to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the construction project, it is strongly advisable to hire a New York construction lawyer during the planning phase. It is always a fair bit easier to address an issue before it becomes a problem.

Many people tend to underestimate the value of hiring a lawyer before signing a construction contract rather than when a dispute arises. They think of it as an additional expense. In reality, doing so is a relatively modest investment when you consider the myriad of issues—legal battles, complacent workers, delays in building, defective work, and cost overruns—you can potentially avoid when you hire a lawyer from the beginning of the project.

How can a lawyer help you with construction contracts?

Once you hire an experienced NYC construction lawyer at the very start of your project, you are already at an advantage. Here are a few things a lawyer can do for you:

A lawyer will help you determine the most favorable financial terms for you in your contract.
You will inevitably need to take a few risks when you are undertaking a complex construction project. A lawyer can help you identify and manage those risks.
A lawyer will help you determine whether you are at risk of financial loss on your project and how much you will be liable for if something goes haywire.

Another invaluable service that your construction lawyer can provide is the ability to assess unreasonable terms or conditions stipulated in the contract. There is no ideal contract, but both parties must be willing to come to mutually favorable terms. Don't rush to enter into an agreement to get the project off the ground or collect your first check. Doing so could put you in a precarious position.

Because so many parties are involved in the process, construction law in NYC is indeed very complicated. Besides the numerous professionals we mentioned earlier, there are also insurance companies, design professionals, lenders, trustees, building managers, and government entities to consider. Every link added to the chain adds to the project's complexity and the potential for conflict. If you do not have an NYC construction lawyer by your side, you can encounter some costly problems.

Whether you decide to hire a construction lawyer before starting your project or when a dispute arises, it is always worth asking yourself, "Where can I find an experienced construction litigation attorney near me?"

Serving clients throughout NYC and Long Island for 28 years, James J. Corbett is a civil litigation lawyer who understands the nuances of construction disputes in NYC. Contact the Law Office of James J. Corbett, P.C., for a free consultation.