Construction Law

Florida Construction Lawyer

Cotney Attorneys & Consultants is a construction law group with offices in major cities across the State of Florida. We specialize in providing legal counsel for general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, engineers and anyone else in the construction industry. What makes the team at Cotney Construction Law stand out is that each lawyer not only specializes in construction law, but has a background working in the construction industry prior to becoming a construction attorney in Florida.

Litigation and Arbitration

The attorneys at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants routinely represent their clients in construction disputes. Typically, these disputes involve: Miller Act Bonds, claims of lien, negligent design, defective construction, and breach of contract. These disputes can sometimes lead toward construction litigation or arbitration. Construction litigation is tried in court and decided by a judge or jury. However, litigation should be used as a last resort. Construction arbitration is a much easier, and less costly process. With arbitration, the dispute is resolved by a non-affiliated third party, and the resolution is legally binding.

OSHA Defense

If you are in need of a construction lawyer in Florida to handle you OSHA defense case, Cotney Attorneys & Consultants is more than suited to assist you. Whether your company needs help preparing for an OSHA inspection or needs counsel after receiving a non-compliance OSHA citation, we are ready to take your case.

Construction Lien and Bond Claims

As your construction attorney in Florida, we are prepared to help you with your lien and bond claims. Because of Florida’s complex rules, this process can be difficult. We can walk you through filing your Notice to Owner, Claim of Lien, Contractor’s Final Payment Affidavit, Notice of Contest of Lien, Notice to Contractor, Notice of Non-Payment, Miller Act Notice, Request for Sworn Statement of Account, Partial and Final Release of Lien, as well as partial and final payment applications.

Alternative Dispute Resolution

At Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, we offer alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services for those parties who wish to explore options other than litigation. Mediation is the most common ADR service, and has a high success rate. During mediation, the two parties that are disputing will have the chance to explain their side, guided by a non-partial mediator. The mediator does not have the authority to make a legally binding resolution, however they can offer strategies to the parties to help them resolve the conflict on their own.

License Defense

There are three classifications of licensed contractors: certified, registered, and specialty. These classifications are been divided into Division I and Division II licenses that relate to your specialized scope of work. As a construction professional, you are obligated to work only within your Scope of Work, and that state in which you are licensed. License non-compliance can lead to criminal charges, penalties, and/or license suspension or revocation. If you are a contractor or subcontractor who has been accused of contracting without a license, contact a Florida construction lawyer at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants, that has experience arguing these cases in front of The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DPBR) and the Construction Industry Licensing Board (CILB).

Bid Protests

If you are a contractor who believes your attempts to secure a bid on a project have been unjustly awarded to another bidder, we have plenty of experience dealing with the next vital steps you need to take in order to protest the bid. If on the other hand, you have won a bid, and it is being protested by the second of third lowest bidder, we can also provide counsel in protecting your award.

Contract Review And Drafting

When beginning the drafting process of your construction contract, it’s highly recommended that you consult with your construction lawyer in Florida. Construction contracts are very particular, and one failed step in a contract could lead to liabilities, disputes, and loss of money. We can assist you with your Scope of Work, Change Order Provisions, Indemnification Clauses, Payment Provisions, and other contract elements that protect you and your company.

If you are looking for an experienced Florida construction lawyer, please call us today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.