Building a new home or commercial facility is a complex process that requires expertise and great attention to detail. It means selecting suitable materials and building size and layout. It also involves selecting the best contractors, obtaining the proper permits, and scheduling the project timeline.
However, the work doesn’t stop there. You must also hire a construction lawyer to get legal advice and ensure you complete the project on time, within budget, and adhere to the applicable laws and regulations.
If you want your project to stay out of legal trouble, this article will help you ask the right questions and what to ask a construction lawyer. We’ll also provide tips on finding the best professional for your project.
How to Prepare the Right Questions about Construction Law
Taking the time to pick the right legal team is essential for a successful project. Before visiting your local construction law firms, you must prepare by brainstorming relevant questions. You should bring a pen and some paper to take notes and not sign any contracts during the first meeting.
5 Topics to Consider When Asking a Construction Lawyer
After providing some tips on preparing for your first legal consultation, this section will enumerate five things you can ask prospective construction lawyers.
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Their Legal Experience
Like finding contractors, you should also ensure that your construction lawyer has the proper knowledge and experience to handle your legal matters. Ask them if they’ve previously dealt with tasks similar to yours and if they achieved satisfactory results.
Some everyday duties that most construction law firms handle are drawing up contracts, settling disputes, and interpreting construction-related laws.
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Fee Agreements
Clients pay law firms for their services in various ways. Some pay construction lawyers for their time, while others require a single payment. Certain cases may also require clients to pay law firms a contingency fee, although they’re less common in commercial law than in other fields.
Before signing a contract with a law firm, you must understand their payment structure, how much you must pay, when they expect the payment and factors that could affect the amount. You can also ask for a copy of the contract to review.
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Their Legal Staff
When visiting the law firm, you must also know who else will be there to help you with your case. These other staff members can include your lawyers’ paralegals, clerks, and secretaries. Getting to know their legal staff better also allows you to ensure they’re qualified and capable of helping you with your project.
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Strategies in Handling Disputes over Construction Laws
Disputes are inevitable in building a new house or commercial facility and can be distressing. For this reason, you should seek legal help.
You must ensure your construction lawyers have the right qualifications and experience to handle your legal issues appropriately. Ask them about any past court cases and work they’ve managed. You should also request details on how they’ve managed other disputes to understand their capabilities better.
Moreover, your lawyer should explain your options, guarantee they’ll respect your rights, and advocate for you during negotiations and court proceedings if necessary.
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Other Relevant Construction Laws and Regulations
You can avoid unexpected issues by telling your construction lawyer about special legal needs regarding your project.
How to Find the Best Lawyer
You can find the best construction lawyer by researching law firms and comparing their credentials, contracts, and advice. You should also ask questions and gather information. That way, you can make a wise choice, confidently sign the contract, and proceed with the project.
Final Thoughts
Building a home or business goes beyond selecting the best materials and contractors; it also means understanding the applicable laws and regulations. You can make an informed decision and avoid legal trouble by consulting a reliable construction lawyer.
If you need a professional construction lawyer in Abbotsford, work with Pathfinder Law! We’re a law firm committed to upholding our client’s best interests and helping them obtain positive and timely results. Contact us now to schedule your complimentary consultation!
