If you’ve worked in the construction business in any capacity, you’re well aware that things can get very complicated very quickly– and those complications can quickly turn contentious. 

Anyone who works within the field of construction may end up needing a construction lawyer at some point: contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, building owners, developers… the list goes on.

What do construction lawyers typically deal with?

Although construction lawyers can and do end up dealing with any part of the construction process, two issues in particular tend to arise most: issues with workmanship, and issues with payment.

Obviously, if a building is constructed in an unsafe way or is constructed poorly, requiring repairs, the building owner will probably be unwilling to just deal with those issues out of their own pocket– instead, it becomes necessary to determine who was responsible for these issues. 

Additionally, if (for example) sufficient payment has not been made to a contractor, that contractor will then be unable to pay any subcontractors they have working for them, leaving potentially a lot of people very unhappy. 

Do construction lawyers only get involved in the event of a dispute?

Although disputes are common, there are many other instances in which hiring a construction lawyer might become necessary.

The construction process can be quite complicated, requiring permits and contracts. Obtaining a permit for a specific project is a potentially complicated process; a construction lawyer who’s experienced and familiar with local zoning laws and permit applications will be able to guide a client through the process as seamlessly as possible.

A lawyer’s knowledge might also be beneficial if you’re dealing with environmental regulation issues or just need to put together contractors or other legal documents pertaining to the process.

What happens if I don’t want to spend money on a construction lawyer?

Of course, there’s no requirement that you seek a construction lawyer’s services. Lawyers are here to help you, but you don’t have to use our services.

However, when it comes time to deal with matters involving the law (like zoning laws and city codes), or employer/employee disputes, it can be greatly beneficial to work with someone who’s experienced and knowledgeable about the field and who has trial experience, helping clients reach their desired outcome.

If you attempt to go it alone, you may end up making errors that a lawyer could easily avoid. Although you may be experienced and highly knowledgeable about your field, some of the legal proceedings can be easily missed.

When should I hire a construction lawyer in Arkansas?

If you’re facing any kind of dispute regarding a construction case, it’s probably time to seek out the services of an experienced construction lawyer. A lawyer can provide assistance with virtually every aspect of the construction process– and a construction lawyer, specifically, has technical and practical knowledge of the process that comes in handy in the event of workmanship disputes.

Essentially, you’re better safe than sorry. If you’d like some extra guidance with a project, it can’t hurt to get in touch with a construction lawyer. At Davidson Law Firm, we have decades of experience that has prepared us to fight your case, file for permits, or simply resolve a dispute.Reach out today, and we’ll get started.