Michael C. Zisa

Mike concentrates his practice on Construction Law and Litigation – Construction, with a particular focus on construction, surety, and government contracts matters. He serves as Co-Managing Partner of the Washington, District of Columbia office of Peckar & Abramson PC, chairs the Surety and Construction Related Insurance Defense practice, and is Co-Chair of the firm’s Crisis Management team.

Industry feedback published by Chambers USA reflects that clients value Mike’s practical approach, attention to detail, and ability to keep projects and disputes aligned with business objectives. Clients note his focus on efficient problem-solving, clear communication, and thoughtful evaluation of available options when addressing construction-related challenges.

Mike represents sureties, general contractors, subcontractors, and owners in construction litigation before federal and state courts in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, as well as before contract appeals boards and in alternative dispute resolution proceedings. In addition to litigation, he regularly advises clients on strategies intended to reduce risk and avoid disputes, including contract drafting and negotiation, contract administration, and claim evaluation.

His practice includes representation on public and private construction projects involving breach of contract claims, requests for equitable adjustment, payment bond and performance bond claims, and mechanic’s lien matters. Mike also advises surety clients on bond claim analysis and defense, takeover agreements, and subrogation and indemnity actions. Beyond construction and surety matters, he represents business entities of varying sizes in commercial litigation and related transactional matters.

Mike frequently speaks and writes on construction and surety law topics. He has been recognized by Washington, D.C. Super Lawyers in the areas of construction litigation, surety, and government contracts since 2014, and by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers for Construction Law. He is also a Fellow of the Construction Lawyers Society of America.

Prior to joining Peckar & Abramson PC, Mike served as managing partner of a boutique construction litigation and surety firm recognized by Chambers USA. He resides in Bethesda, Maryland with his wife and three children.