Construction: California

THE FIRM This preeminent firm is considered an excellent one-stop shop for construction work. Its practice goes hand in hand with its project development, insurance, environmental and land use expertise. As such, the group is able to handle a broad range of claims on behalf of its developer and construction clients, aided by its excellent trial, dispute resolution and arbitration experience. Significant work highlights include advising Hokuli`a Community Association in relation to claims arising from the development of a master-planned community in Hawaii. Notable clients of the firm also include GE, the Port of Oakland and the County of Alameda.

Sources say: “Farella Braun + Martel is top-drawer, professional and responsive."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Deborah Ballati is both well known and highly respected. She is a favorite among peers, and clients note that she has a “broad and deep understanding of both insurance and construction law.” She wins particular acclaim for her work on behalf of the Port of Oakland.

Charles Sink has an extensive practice representing both private owners and public entities, including architects and contractors. He is recommended by sources for being an “expert of experts” and an “exceptional strategist.” Recent highlights include work for Wisconsin Energy relating to the development of a $2.3 billion coal-fired power plant.

Jeffrey Sykes is known to be particularly adept at representing public owner clients, advising them on developing project delivery systems, project management, bid protest matters and prosecuting bond surety claims. His highlights include advising the County of Alameda on the $460 million expansion of the Highland Hospital campus.

Carl Switzer is noted for his work on both public and private projects. He recently represented Thomas Morone, the receiver for the Ritz Carlton Hotel, in Lake Tahoe, in relation to alleged design defects and lien claims.

Alan Harris has a long-standing reputation in the legal construction industry. He has a vast body of knowledge and a significant workload involving arbitrations and mediations.

THE FIRM The arrival of a complement of construction attorneys from Howrey in February 2011 has helped to secure this firm a leading reputation in the field. The group brings a depth and breadth to the field that is unseen in many of its competitors and has enabled the team to handle major projects globally. It represents key public players, such as the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and the Los Angeles Unified School District, as well as significant private, international owners such as MGM Resorts International.

Sources say: “They have a strong construction connection.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Stephen O'Neal is an “extremely talented attorney” who wins particular praise for his recent representation in relation to an $8.5 billion CityCenter project in Las Vegas.

David Buoncristiani is considered one of the country's leading construction experts. The international nature of his practice is reflected in his advice to PB Americas on issues relating to the construction of a radar facility for the government of Taiwan.

Daniel McMillan has a long-standing reputation in the industry for handling cutting-edge cases and for his excellence as a trial attorney. Sources say that “when it comes to the ins and outs of working on a complicated contract he is one of the best.” His recent casework includes the representation of MTA in relation to disputes arising from the construction of a section of the Metro Rail subway system.

THE FIRM This firm has an undisputed reputation for housing one of the premier construction teams in the state. The group is renowned for representing design professionals and general contractors, and for providing a broad spectrum of services, including construction and design defect work, surety, drafting contracts, supervising negotiations and resolving subcontractor claims. Recent highlights include its representations of major contractor joint ventures, such as its role on behalf of Clark/McCarthy Joint Venture in a bid protest, and Traylor-Shea in claims relating to a $198 million public works project.  

Sources say: “Exceptionally fine lawyers."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  The firm's managing partner Michael Long "exhibits a high level of professionalism and is very sharp," say sources; "the combination of these traits along with his expert knowledge of construction law yields a level of service that really can not be surpassed.” His recent highlights include representing the Western University of Health Sciences in claims relating to the construction of new facilities on its campus.

Gregory Dukellis is renowned for his public works projects expertise. Observers say he has “exceptional instincts and understands before anyone what the proper course of action is.” His recent work has involved matters for constructor joint venture clients.

Bennett Lee is recommended as one of the best construction lawyers in Northern California. Clients say he is someone “who will go the extra mile when needed and is ready to think outside the box.”

Robert Niesley is considered a go-to expert in the area of construction surety bonds. Peers recommend him as “a good advocate for his clients and a nice guy to work with.”

THE FIRM This group's strong reputation for representing contractors has lent itself well to Allen Matkins's recent body of work in the public sector and its expansion into renewable energy construction. Sources especially note the firm's recent work on behalf of construction firms, universities and hospital groups. The team's highlights include its advice to Skanska in relation to contract claims against the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts.

Sources say: “The type of firm that works harder than most on relationships."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Raymond Buddie has been involved in numerous litigation, bid protest and contract negotiation assignments on behalf of an enviable client roster, which predominantly features contractors. Clients note that he has “excellent knowledge on anything construction” and a “demeanor that is good for getting a resolution.”

THE FIRM This boutique firm wins special recognition for its superlative expertise in the areas of construction litigation and collection work, among other types of matter. The firm's ability reflects its strong public client base, which includes the cities of Glendale, Pasadena, Huntington Beach, Riverside, Victorville and others.

Sources say: “An excellent firm that provides high-quality legal services at a reasonable price. They are very responsive and user-friendly.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Glenn Turner is praised for his dedication to his clients; he “brings a passion to making sure that we prevail, he goes beyond simply doing a job," mentioned one happy source. His impressive track record of engagements has recently included his work on behalf of the City of Victorville in a claim relating to the design and construction of a power plant. This case also resulted in a first ever decision in California whereby an engineering firm was found to have breached a fiduciary duty.

Barbara Gadbois is adept at drafting contracts and advising on public works disputes for her primarily owner-oriented client base. Her capabilities are reflected in the words of her clients, who say that she “is the consummate lawyer and has my complete trust and faith in handling business in a manner that is without equal.”

THE FIRM This firm's well-established practice is famed for the full host of services it offers, including advice on traditional construction matters, building integration modeling, construction litigation, sustainability issues and advice relating to California's lien laws. A number of clients highlight the group's recent work in the integrated project design (IPD) space, while others praise its all-around excellent experience with construction contracts. Recent highlights include its recent appointment to represent the America's Cup Event Authority.

Sources say: “A firm that is up on contemporary issues regarding sustainable technology and construction, that speaks to an enlightened consciousness there.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Howard Ashcraft has a solid practice representing design professionals and public owners. Like the firm, he is especially praised for his knowledge of IPD-related work. Clients say: “His knowledge of the IPD process is without equal. He helped to guide us through the process and identified pitfalls and successes from other projects he worked on.” His recent work highlights include the representation of Sutter Health System in a $6 billion-plus construction program.

THE FIRM This firm is viewed as a major player in the construction field and is especially highlighted by sources for its representations of major civil contractors. The group's expertise includes public and private construction disputes, construction project management services and construction defect litigation, among other areas.

Sources say: “They are a go-to team in LA.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Patrick Duffy has a leading practice representing contractors, subcontractors, design professionals and owners. His clients praise his experience: “He has a very good grasp of what's going on, having had years in the field.”

Michael Minchella is an established construction expert with in-depth experience of complex federal and state construction litigation. His peers note his strong capabilities during mediations and declare him to be “one of the best construction lawyers in Southern California.”

THE FIRM This firm's assignments illustrate the broad range of construction projects it becomes involved in across both the public and the private sectors. Examples include its successful representation of the RCI/Herzog joint venture in claims relating to the construction of a 4.5 mile segment of the Seattle light rail system.

Sources say: “I am very impressed with the quality of representation we receive from the firm.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Christian Roux is renowned as a strategic thinker with excellent client relation skills and the ability to see the overall landscape during a case. He led in the team's representation of RCI/Herzog, and is an expert in acting for owners and subcontractors.

THE FIRM This firm has a highly respected construction practice, and a particularly strong reputation for undertaking labor-related concerns. The group's recent highlights include its appointment as special counsel to the City of Long Beach in relation to its public construction projects. The team has also been acting for design firm HOK in litigation arising from the construction of a medical facility.

Sources say: “A professionally run firm that delivers a positive experience."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Mary Salamone is highly regarded for her work involving large, complex public works projects, and for her effective representation of contractors and subcontractors. Her recent work includes the representation of a contractor in relation to the LA Live project.

Michael Baker has broad-ranging experience, and wins particular acclaim for his work with construction claims and for his representations of design professionals. His recent highlights include his work for an international design firm in respect of claims relating to the building of hospitals in Santa Monica.

Thomas Kovacich has significant experience drafting and negotiating project labor. Sources praise his "excellent grasp of how the whole legal system works."

THE FIRM This national firm offers a broad spectrum of services to its clients across all manner of disciplines. The group's body of work has come to include project management and design defect litigation for large-scale public utilities projects. Significant examples of the group's work include its representation of Highland Construction and California's Department of Transport in a multimillion-dollar claim relating to construction on a state highway.

Sources say: “Their advice is always extremely efficient and price-oriented.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Randall Erickson is a leading arbitrator and mediator, and a seasoned litigator. His peers recommend his “no-nonsense approach” to matters, while his clients say that “great intuition comes naturally to him.”

THE FIRM This solid team is recommended for its collaborative approach to problem solving. Much of the group's recent work has involved public sector matters and the representation of design professionals. It also wins significant praise for its expertise in insurance defense and construction defect cases.

Sources say: “I have always been impressed by their straightforward approach to risk management and integrity.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Kenneth Strong has a broad-ranging practice, but is best known for his expertise in design-related law, undertaking architectural and engineering issues. He has been heavily involved in a large telecommunication project in Dallas, as well as in the representation of a resort developer in Las Vegas.

THE FIRM Peckar & Abramson is famed for its construction litigation expertise and for its work on behalf of general contractor clients. Its recent highlights include cases for a national construction management firm regarding the construction of a skilled nursing facility. It has also been representing a general contractor for the construction of a 24-story hotel in Los Angeles.

Sources say: “The firm is excellent, with a good and well-earned reputation.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS  John Hanover is praised for his in-depth experience and his strong industry connections. His recent cases have included the representation of a major construction firm in relation to negligence and fraud cases.

THE FIRM This solid team is engaged in a combination of transactional work, project performance matters and litigation. The attorneys are known for being proficient trial lawyers and delivering superb results for their clients. Recent assignments include project development work for Baha Mar Development in connection with a $3 billion resort in the Bahamas, as well as bid protest work for Orange County.

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Harold Hamersmith is described as “very intelligent, knowledgeable, diligent and extremely responsive.” He has been heavily involved in the Baha Mar Development project, having provided advice on a broad range of issues, such as drafting and contract negotiation.

THE FIRM Cox Castle has a long-standing reputation as a player in the Los Angeles construction sector. Its attorneys are praised for their ability to handle development issues from beginning to end, undertaking both the transactional and litigation sides of construction projects. As a result, the group has a sizable portfolio of major infrastructure and building projects under its belt.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Los Angeles-based Mario Camara is a key contact.

THE FIRM Originating from the East Coast, Duane Morris has effectively established a strong foundation and an impressive client base in the areas of transportation, telecommunication and pipeline-related matters on the West Coast. The group provides a broad range of services, and is also increasingly active with integrated project design and PPP work. Recent highlights include its representation of Bechtel in a telecommunication construction claim, and its role on behalf of environment engineering firm Carollo in relation to litigation connected to the Walnut Creek pipeline explosion cases.

Sources say: “Excellent in whatever we ask them to do."

KEY INDIVIDUALS  Robert Hendrickson is a leading litigator and arbitrator in the field. Clients praise his excellent qualifications and industry knowledge, highlighting him as a great asset to their projects: “He knows the industry very well; a quick study when it comes to understanding the ins and outs of our company."

Lock Holmes is highlighted in particular for his expertise in rail-related construction work. His highlights also include his representation of Airis Holdings in relation to the development of a 400,000 sq ft air cargo terminal in San Francisco International Airport. His clients describe him as “very responsive and proactive, looking out for both opportunities and solutions.”

THE FIRM This firm's growing construction practice is greatly complemented by its solid real estate and energy practices, which ensure that the team has the breadth to approach a project from all angles. The firm's client base includes some of the largest construction groups in America, such as Shorenstein Properties, Balfour Beatty Construction and Hunt Construction Group. The team is also increasingly busy on behalf of its clients in the healthcare sector.

KEY INDIVIDUALS  John Heisse is an outstanding attorney who garners the respect of both clients and peers. Sources note that his background in engineering ensures that “he speaks the language of people in design and construction.”

Robert Thum is a talented attorney who brings his technical background to bear in order to deliver practical advice. His recent casework includes his work on claims relating to the building of two major hospitals in Los Angeles.

THE FIRM Sedgwick is renowned for its construction litigation expertise and for its work on behalf of contractors on a national basis. Among its highlights, the firm has been representing Vance Brown in relation to contractual disputes arising from the construction of a large residential complex in Northern California.

Sources say: “Truly has our interests at heart.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS The Los Angeles-based Marilyn Klinger leads the firm's construction practice group.