Construction Executive magazine has recognized Offit Kurman as one of the “Top 50 Construction Law Firms” in the United States. Offit Kurman was ranked #37 on the list as published in the magazine’s June 2019 issue.  The ranking confirms Offit Kurman’s growing role in the construction law market.

The rankings took into account a number of different criteria that impact the ability of construction counsel to serve their clients.  As stated in the article announcing the rankings, today’s construction companies and professionals must contend with an “explosion” of technological advancements and constant contractual changes, as well as frequent updates to state and federal law and regulations. For these reasons, contractors cannot choose to work with just any legal partner. Cyeble Tamulonis, the author of the article, aptly noted that “[l]aw firms specializing in construction have the unique industry experience essential to guide their clients through a complex maze of compliance and contracts to ensure the health of the construction enterprise.”

For its inaugural ranking, the magazine polled hundreds of law firms with dedicated construction practices throughout the United States to evaluate the ability and sophistication of the nominated firms. Rankings were determined by an algorithm that weighted each firm’s 2018 construction practice revenue, the number of attorneys in the construction practice, the percentage of total revenue derived from the construction practice, the number of states in which the firm is licensed to practice, the year in which the construction practice was established, and other performance related criteria.

In addition to including Offit Kurman on the list, the article featured quotes from Offit Kurman’s Associate Managing Principal and Senior Construction Counsel Josh Quinter. Mr. Quinter offered insight into the risks construction law clients face and how an experienced legal advisor can help navigate around those problems.

“The most common issue our clients have is getting paid for their work,” he said. “While there is capital to build projects, cash flow remains tight for many owners and contractors. We deal with this in how we structure our clients’ contracts, encouraging them to actively manage their A/R, and not wait to take action if they aren’t getting paid.”

Mr. Quinter also commented about the increasing “risk for project delays, quality issues, and safety concerns” as contractors experience a shortage of skilled labor.  “There is pending legislation on apprenticeship ratios, training, and other issues that will impact the market,” he said. “Failing to manage safety in situations where people could get injured can end up being a big deal.”

The CE article, “The Top 50 Construction Law Firms®: Keeping a Sharp Eye on the Contract,” can be found here or in the magazine’s latest issue (PDF available here).

To learn more about Offit Kurman’s construction law services, click here.