While the priority of construction contractors is very often to ensure high-quality work while keeping costs low, the need for legal and financial risk management throughout the life cycle of a construction project cannot be overstated. From contract negotiation to dispute resolution, the various stages of a project can present significant challenges and unanticipated costs. By retaining the services of a skilled construction lawyer, contractors could benefit through stronger agreements, reduced liability and greater effectiveness in pursuing the available rights and remedies, all of which contribute to lowering overall costs and producing higher quality work.

Contract Negotiation

Early in project development, contractors frequently must negotiate a variety of agreements—such as joint venture, supply and subcontractor agreements—to allocate the associated risks and responsibilities among the participants in the construction pyramid. It is essential that construction-related agreements be drafted properly, as they can rarely be changed after the project has begun. A construction lawyer could help promote a contractor’s interests by anticipating where the contractor will need protection, and negotiating and drafting a favourable contract which clearly defines each party’s obligations. A tight, well-written contract will set the contractor up for success should any disputes arise in the course of carrying out the project.

Dispute Resolution and Litigation

Construction contractors are susceptible to a host of potential legal claims, including claims for breach of contract, delay, lien, bond and breach of trust, among others. They may also be exposed to disputes arising from health and safety matters, environmental issues, and bankruptcy and insolvency. The rules and regulations governing such matters are complex, ever-changing and exceedingly difficult to navigate. With the help of a construction lawyer, construction disputes of all kinds can be efficiently resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration and, if necessary, litigation.

The lawyers at Sutherland Law have the knowledge and expertise to protect your interests at all stages of the construction process. Please contact one of our construction lawyers in Vaughan for more information.