Construction Law Blog

What Law Students Learn in Construction Law Courses at U.S. Universities

As construction projects grow in scale, complexity, and cost, the legal issues surrounding them have become increasingly specialized. In response, many U.S. law schools now offer dedicated courses in construction law, exposing students to the legal frameworks that govern one of the largest industries in the country. These courses go beyond traditional contract theory, blending practical risk management, statutory analysis, and real-world dispute resolution.

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Enforcing Commercial Arbitration Awards Across Jurisdictions – Part Three

(Part Three) This is a continuing article series about enforcing commercial arbitration awards in New York and Florida, highlighting the legal frameworks, court procedures, and strategic considerations unique to each jurisdiction.

Part Three: Enforcing Arbitration Awards in New York and Florida

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Enforcing Commercial Arbitration Awards Across Jurisdictions – Part Two

(Part Two) This is a continuing article series about enforcing commercial arbitration awards in New York and Florida, highlighting the legal frameworks, court procedures, and strategic considerations unique to each jurisdiction.

Part Two: Key Enforcement Challenges in Multi-Jurisdictional Arbitration

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Enforcing Commercial Arbitration Awards Across Jurisdictions – Part One

(Part One) This is a continuing article series about enforcing commercial arbitration awards in New York and Florida, highlighting the legal frameworks, court procedures, and strategic considerations unique to each jurisdiction.

Part One: Why Winning an Arbitration Is Only the Beginning

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Don’t Get Burned: Red Flags to Watch Before Hiring Your Build Team

Hiring the right professional for a construction or renovation project can mean the difference between a smooth process and a costly dispute. Whether you are building from the ground up or remodeling an existing space, recognizing early warning signs can help you avoid delays, budget overruns, and legal issues. Below are common red flags to watch for when hiring a contractor, architect, or interior designer.

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Top 5 Mechanic’s Lien Waiver Pitfalls for Contractors and Subs

For contractors and subcontractors in New York, Mechanic’s Lien Waivers are a part of life, but the potential risks to the contractor in waiving more than intended or understanding of the terms are not always as common. Owners (and often their lender) require that the project be kept lien free through progression of the work to final completion.

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The Construction Bidding Process in New York and Florida: A Client’s Guide

Whether you’re preparing for a residential renovation or planning a commercial development, understanding the construction bidding process is essential. New York and Florida share many of the same foundational principles when it comes to bidding, but each state has its own legal requirements, licensing rules, and market conditions that shape how contractors prepare and submit proposals.

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What to Look for When Hiring Architects, Interior Designers, and Contractors

Embarking on a residential improvement project—whether a minor renovation or a ground-up new build requires a strategic approach to procurement and personnel management. The success of these endeavors depends heavily on the selection of qualified professionals who possess the technical expertise, legal standing, and communication skills necessary to execute a vision within budgetary and regulatory constraints.

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Subcontractor’s Arbitration Action Stayed by Supreme Court

The Supreme Court, New York County clarified how subcontract forum selection clauses requiring litigation interact with New York’s Prompt Payment Act and its mandatory arbitration provisions in construction dispute resolution.

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Long Island Construction Law Successfully Defends Homeowners Against Claims By Unlicensed Contractor

Despite much construction litigation, New York courts who govern Long Island construction law are agreed that an unlicensed home improvement contractor cannot recover against consumers. That has not, however, stopped unlicensed contractors from arguing exceptions to that rule. A recent court victory by John Caravella, Esq. confirms that courts remain unwilling to accept excuses from unlicensed contractors.

In Orefice v. Guma Development, homeowners sued an unlicensed contractor for defective construction. Notably, the local municipal code requires that any person doing business as a contractor be licensed by the municipality. A corporation does not require its own license if a licensed contractor is employed by the firm as a supervisor.

 

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Get an Experienced Construction Litigation and Arbitration Firm Fighting for You!

The Law Offices of John Caravella, P.C. offers a free initial consultation with a Long Island construction attorney to discuss your legal concerns with no obligation. To schedule an appointment, call our office today or fill out the form below.