Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2012 
Steve is a pragmatic, deeply experienced construction lawyer who represents clients in negotiating and drafting construction contracts and in prosecuting or defending construction-related claims. For over 30 years, he has represented members of the construction industry across a broad spectrum of matters.
On the transactional side, Steve works on behalf of owners and developers, construction managers, general contractors, subcontractors, and design professionals – including architects, engineers, and other licensed professions – to prepare and negotiate contract documents for commercial and residential construction projects in the New Jersey and New York metropolitan area. He has specific expertise advising condominium associations and unit owners on construction and renovation projects in condominiums and other common-interest communities.
Drawing on his experience with construction claims, Steve’s construction contracting work helps clients manage the risks inherent in construction projects so they can adequately protect their interests and avoid disputes in the future. He drafts, modifies, and negotiates customized contracts, as well as contracts based on standard industry forms from groups such as the American Institute of Architects, ConsensusDocs, and the Design Build Institute of America.
Steve also advises developers and owners on the selection of appropriate project delivery systems and provides follow-up continuity on contract administration and, when necessary, claims management.
When claims and disputes are unavoidable, Steve represents clients in state and federal court litigation throughout the New Jersey/New York metropolitan area, as well as in local and international mediations and arbitrations. He has defended and asserted claims on behalf of owners, developers, condominium associations, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, vendors, and sureties involved in public and private construction projects.
Steve has targeted experience with disputes involving home improvement contractor claims, construction, condominium, and municipal mechanic’s lien claims, construction defects, design and performance defects, and design professional errors & omissions and malpractice. His work includes disputes involving construction code violations and construction contract claims involving payment, acceleration, liquidated damages, delays, disruption, lost productivity, force majeure, site conditions, warranties, and payment and performance bonds.
He has represented clients in public contracting concerning violations under the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, in addition to clients who receive code violations lodged by state or local enforcement officials under the New Jersey Uniform Construction Code Act, defending them in proceedings in municipal court and before the Construction Board of Appeals and the Office of Administrative Law.
Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.
