If you are in the construction industry in Olympia, Washington, chances are you may require a construction law attorney. Complex legal issues that may arise throughout any construction projects. From contract negotiations to dispute resolution, navigating the world of construction law requires an experienced Olympia construction law attorney to obtain the best possible outcome.

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, our lawyers have more than 100 years of combined experience in construction law. We’ve assisted thousands of clients throughout the Pacific Northwest for more than 25 years. We can be your trusted advisers and advocates for any construction project issues you may encounter. Contact us today to request your no-obligation consultation.

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Our Olympia construction law attorneys play a crucial role in navigating the legal complexities and challenges that can arise in the construction industry.

Here’s an overview of our roles and the services we provide: 

• Contract Drafting and Review: We can assist in drafting and reviewing construction contracts. We can help ensure that agreements between parties, including owners, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers, are clear, comprehensive, and legally sound.
• Dispute Resolution: When disputes arise during construction projects, our attorneys can help resolve conflicts through negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. If necessary, we may resort to litigation. No matter the case, we work to protect our clients’ interests and minimize the impact on the project’s timeline and budget.
• Mechanic’s Liens and Bond Claims: We assist contractors and subcontractors in filing mechanic’s liens to secure payment for unpaid work. We also help with bond claims against performance and payment bonds to ensure financial protection in case of default.
• Regulatory Compliance: Our attorneys can help ensure that construction projects comply with local building codes, zoning regulations, environmental laws, and other regulatory requirements. We help clients navigate the permitting process and address compliance issues.
• Environmental Issues: We can assist with legal challenges related to environmental regulations and potential contamination of the construction site.
• Construction Defects: We can address issues related to construction defects, whether in design, workmanship, or materials. We can help you pursue or defend against claims, negotiate settlements, or, if necessary, litigate to resolve disputes.
• Insurance Claims: Our attorneys assist clients in dealing with insurance claims related to accidents, property damage, or other risks associated with construction projects. We can help you understand your coverage and navigate the claims process.
• Bid Protests: Our attorneys may assist with bid protests, challenging the awarding of construction contracts on grounds of unfair competition, bid irregularities, or violation of procurement rules.
• Workplace Safety Compliance: We can assist construction companies to ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. We can provide advice on safety protocols and assist in responding to OSHA citations.
• Contractual Disputes: Our lawyers handle disputes related to contract terms, scope changes, delays, and other issues that may arise during construction projects. We work to enforce contract provisions and protect clients from breach of contract claims.
• Delays and Time Overruns: We can help resolve disputes related to project delays, extensions of time, or claims for liquidated damages due to construction projects not being completed within the agreed-upon timeframe.
• Termination of Contracts: We can help with legal issues arising from the termination of construction contracts, whether due to default, convenience, or other reasons.

Our Olympia real estate lawyers provide proactive advice and counseling throughout the life of a construction project. We help clients identify and mitigate potential legal risks before they escalate.

While we prefer to resolve conflicts efficiently and cost-effectively through alternative dispute resolution processes, we won’t hesitate to litigate the matter in court if necessary.

If you have legal concerns about a construction project in Olympia, you must take prompt and strategic action to protect your interests.

Here are steps to consider if you find yourself facing legal issues related to a construction project:

• Document the Issue: Begin by thoroughly documenting the issue. Keep records of relevant documents, contracts, emails, photos, and any other evidence related to the concern. Detailed documentation can be crucial in building a case or supporting your position.
• Consult a Construction Law Attorney: Seek the advice of a construction law attorney with experience handling construction-related disputes. A legal professional can provide insight into the merits of your case and inform you of your rights and obligations. They can also advise about potential courses of action and help devise effective legal strategies.
• Review Contracts: Carefully review all contracts associated with the construction project with your attorney, including the main construction contract, subcontractor agreements, and any change orders. Understand the contractual obligations, responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in these documents. Do not sign anything without first reviewing it with your attorney.
• Issue Notice: If there are specific contractual procedures for raising concerns or disputes, follow them meticulously. This may involve issuing a formal notice to the other parties involved in the project, outlining the issue, and requesting a resolution.
• Understand Lien and Bond Rights: If non-payment is a concern, understand your lien and bond rights. Construction law often provides mechanisms for contractors and subcontractors to secure payment through mechanic’s liens or bond claims.
• Document Financial Losses: If your legal concern involves financial losses, meticulously document the losses you have incurred. This can include costs for corrective work, delays, or other damages. Accurate financial documentation is crucial if you decide to pursue a legal claim.
• Comply with Notice Requirements: Some construction-related disputes may involve specific notice requirements, especially if you plan to file a lawsuit. Ensure that you comply with any contractual or statutory notice provisions to preserve your legal rights.
• Evaluate Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policies to determine if coverage applies to the specific legal concern. Notify your insurance carrier of potential claims and work with them to understand the extent of coverage.

With your attorney, attempt to resolve the issue through negotiation. Open communication and a willingness to find a mutually agreeable solution can sometimes avoid protracted legal battles.

You may also consider arbitration or mediation as a less expensive and quicker way to resolve the issue than traditional litigation. However, if the other party refuses to resolve the issue through these methods, you may have no other recourse than litigation.

Your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit and represent your interests in court.

An experienced Olympia construction law attorney from Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess can help you navigate the legal complexities of any type of dispute and tailor their strategies to your specific situation, based on your needs and goals.

Our construction law attorneys typically represent a diverse range of clients involved in various aspects of the construction industry, including:

• General contractors
• Subcontractors and specialty contractors, such as plumbers, electrical workers, or roofers
• Construction managers and professionals or firms hired to manage and coordinate construction projects on behalf of the owner
• Property owners or developers initiating construction projects, including commercial, residential, or industrial developments
• Architects, engineers, and other design professionals involved in the planning and design phases of construction projects.
• Real estate developers and professionals or entities involved in the acquisition, development, and improvement of real estate properties.
• Material suppliers that provide construction materials, equipment, or services to contractors and subcontractors.
• Sureties and insurance companies that issue performance and payment bonds to contractors, as well as insurance companies providing liability coverage for construction-related risks.
• Homeowners and homebuyers undertaking residential construction projects, either new construction or renovations.
• Professionals or firms responsible for managing and maintaining properties, including overseeing construction projects.
• Homeowner Associations (HOAs) representing homeowners in planned communities or condominiums, especially in matters related to construction defects, repairs, or disputes.
• Lenders providing financing for construction projects, including construction loans and mortgages.
• Associations or organizations representing various segments of the construction industry.

At Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess, we represent virtually any individuals or entities facing legal issues, disputes, or claims arising from construction projects. We can provide trustworthy legal counsel and effective, customized solutions and strategies throughout the lifecycle of a construction project. 

With any construction project in Olympia, there’s typically a lot of money at stake. You want to ensure you have a dedicated resource looking out for your rights and interests.

The construction lawyers at Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess have the skills, knowledge, and resources to handle any legal issue you face concerning a construction project. We can even help you form your construction company properly and draft any business contracts for you.

Contact our Olympia law office today at (360) 742-3500 to discuss your case. We’re here to advocate for you and help you achieve the favorable results you deserve.

Dickson Frohlich Phillips Burgess – Olympia Office

Address: 111 21st Avenue Southwest

Olympia, WA 98501

Phone: (360) 742-3500