Construction Law
Construction Law in Orlando
Types of Construction Legal Work
We often work for (or against) subcontractors, general contractors, architects, suppliers, builders, developers, and engineers.
Our legal team handles a wide scope of legal issues including:
- Contract Disputes
- Injuries
- Defects
- Construction Delays
- Permits and Bids
- Liens
- Bonds
- Warranties
- Employment Issues
- Unlicensed Contracting
Injuries
Construction work can be perilous. Sadly, injuries are commonplace on a construction site. When such an injury occurs, a worker may qualify to receive compensation. Likewise, a contractor has a right to a defense. Our Orlando construction lawyers represent both types of clients.
Involving several subcontractors and insurance companies can quickly complicate a case. With the wrong attorney, the time spent in court and legal fees can spiral out of control. Our Florida and Orlando construction lawyers have experience with injury cases and dispute resolution. Our firm can help you create an effective and cost-conscious strategy.
Contracts
Never sign a contract without letting one of our Orlando construction lawyers review it first. A contract may seem “standard” or “boilerplate.” However, you can negotiate it to provide you with better terms or to limit how liable your company is.
Contracts can also contain confusing or misleading terms. Our Orlando construction lawyers can assist when contract terms become an issue. We help craft contracts that are more easily understood to help you avoid ending up in court. Use an attorney before you sign a contract to reduce potential conflict and costs down the road. We can assist with:
- Contractor-Owner Agreements
- Subcontractor Agreements
- Licensing Agreements
- Distribution Agreements
- Teaming Agreements
- Joint Venture Agreements
- Guarantees and Promissory Notes
- Indemnity Provisions
- Disclaimer Provisions
- Notice Provisions
- Terms And Conditions
Defects (“Chapter 558 Claims”)
Our Orlando construction lawyers can assist you with both types of defects, including issues with:
- Mold Plumbing
- Electrical Systems
- Groundwork
- Drainage
- Rot
- Drywall
- Foundations
- Shifting Structures
- Roofing
- Structural Failures
- Water Damage
Construction Delays
Construction Permits and Bids
These may include licenses, electrical permits, plumbing permits, or demolition permits. Failure to adhere to government requirements could lead to delays or legal and financial consequences.
The more complex the project is, the more complex the issues become. Our firm can help you obtain permits or government clearance. We can also assist if someone accuses you of not possessing the proper authorization.
When a construction project is open to the public for contractor bid, it is important to understand that bid process. This includes what the contractor needs in order to bid. Our Orlando construction lawyers can help make that process go smoothly.
Liens & Bonds
They can place a construction lien on a property. Liens can prevent projects from advancing or the selling of the property. We can assist with obtaining liens and notices regarding non-payment. We can also assist your business with lien protection.
A non-lawyer may not be fully aware of the lien process, which can be technical with differing timing requirements. Work with Orlando construction lawyers to understand the ins and outs of lien placement, defense, and satisfaction. Among the issues we can assist with are:
- Notices to Owner
- Claim of Lien
- Final Payment Affidavits
- Notice of Contest of Lien
- Notice to Contractor
- Notice of Non-Payment
- Sworn Statement of Account
- Releases of Lien
- Partial and Final Payment Applications
Employment Issues
- Violations of the Fair Labor Standards Act
- Non-Compete Disputes
- Discrimination
Unlicensed Contracting
Unlicensed contracting in Florida can lead to significant criminal and civil ramifications. A person or entity found in violation of the contracting laws can face discipline through Florida’s Department of Business and Professional Regulations (“DBPR”), may be subjected to criminal proceedings, and can be liable to an aggrieved consumer (whether or not the consumer knew the contractor was unlicensed). In addition, a party may void a contract entered into with an unlicensed contract and may be obligated for treble damages – meaning three times the amount to repair or replace the unlicensed contractor’s work. The unlicensed contractor would also be subjected to paying the other party’s attorneys’ fees and litigation costs.
Unlicensed contracting is a significant problem and is governed by Florida’s complex statutory scheme related to licensing and contracting. There are several pitfalls that someone may inadvertently stumble upon without knowing or intending to do so.
Parties who have contracted with an unlicensed Florida contractor have significant remedies available to them.
Work with an Orlando construction lawyer to understand the ins and outs of unlicensed contracting.
Never sign a contract without letting one of our Orlando construction lawyers review it first. A contract may seem “standard” or “boilerplate.” However, you can negotiate it to provide you with better terms or to limit how liable your company is.
Contracts can also contain confusing or misleading terms. Our Orlando construction lawyers can assist when contract terms become an issue. We help craft contracts that are more easily understood to help you avoid ending up in court. Use an attorney before you sign a contract to reduce potential conflict and costs down the road. We can assist with:
