Schedule
Schedule

Counsel for Every Stage of Construction

From project strategy and contracts through claims and litigation management, we bring engineering insight and 48 years of construction law experience to projects of every size. Your Skilled Advisor from Concept to Project Occupancy.

Advisors to Twenty-Five of the top 100 US Contractors.

Decades of complex project resolution.

3,000+

Disputes Resolved

48+ Years

Practicing Since 1978

12 States + DC

Licensed in 12 States and the District of Columbia

Construction counsel from project planning through resolution.

Our specialized practice areas are designed to mitigate risk and ensure project success from inception to completion.

Project Strategy & Delivery Methods

Incorporation & Annual Reports

Licensing

Contract Review

Strategic guidance for structuring projects, delivery methods and risk from the outset.

Business formation, governance and ongoing compliance for construction industry participants.

Guidance through contractor licensing, regulatory requirements and multistate operations.

Construction-focused contract review designed to identify risk before work begins.

Bid Protests

Mechanics Liens

Claims Preparation

Litigation Management

Counsel for contractors navigating public procurement, bidding disputes and protests.

Protecting payment rights and navigating lien requirements, deadlines and enforcement.

Strategic development and documentation of construction claims before disputes escalate.

Experienced representation in complex construction and real estate disputes.

a crane is lifting a building into the air

Ernest C. Brown, P.E., J.D.

As a former U.S. Navy submarine officer and Naval Academy instructor, Mr. Mahan approaches complex project planning and contract drafting matters with disciplined analysis, strategic thinking, and practical problem-solving.

Mr. Mahan earned his J.D. from Stanford Law School with an M.B.A. from UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business. His experience as a Construction Attorney, Project Executive, and Naval Officer complements the firm’s deep construction and engineering expertise, helping clients successfully navigate global scale projects, develop their organizations, review complex contracts, chill disputes, and make intelligent and strategic decisions.

James P. Mahan, Esq.

Civil Engineering and Project Management Savvy

Trained in civil engineering and construction management at MIT & UC Berkeley, Mr. Brown brings an unparalleled legal and technical depth to construction megaprojects. As a law firm partner, Fluor Lawyer, CEO of Strabag USA and Sr. Vice President of Hill International, he offers a unique blend of legal, project management, and civil engineering insight to major projects.

Ernest has resolved over 3,000 construction disputes, serving as a trial lawyer, mediator, arbitrator, and Project Neutral®. His experience spans 40+ years, and is known for practical, cost-effective, and executive-level service.

Advisors to over $60 Billion in US and International Projects.

Our Guiding Principle

A Trial is a Failed Negotiation.

Our philosophy centers on proactive dispute resolution, minimizing litigation through strategic counsel, negotiation and Project Neutral® intervention. We prepare for every possibility while prioritizing early, efficient resolution.

Schedule a No Fee Consultation

Engage Counsel Early.
Build with Confidence.

The most effective construction law begins before a dispute. Bring experienced legal and engineering insight to your project early.

Disclaimer: Our firm DOES NOT handle single-family construction disputes.