North Texas Construction Dispute Lawyers 

Texas attorneys advocate for clients’ interests when conflict arises over a building or repair project

Disputes in the construction industry can be costly in terms of money, time and relationships.  

The experienced attorneys at Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP work to secure favorable resolutions for contractors, property owners, suppliers, developers and other parties involved in conflicts over a construction job. Our North Texas construction dispute lawyers utilize traditional negotiations, alternative dispute resolution methods and litigation when necessary to resolve disagreements over Texas projects. In addition to our Denton office, we also meet with clients at locations in Flower Mound and Gainesville.   

Common causes of construction disputes

Construction disputes arise for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common allegations include breach of contract, non-payment of monies owed, design errors, material defects and unwarranted schedule delays. Whatever the reason for your dispute, a North Texas construction lawyer from our firm will investigate the situation and counsel you about possible resolution options.  

Parties commonly involved in Texas construction disputes

Disputes on construction projects in Texas are not limited to specific parties. A conflict that justifies legal intervention could involve any of the following stakeholders:

• Property owners
• Developers
• Contractors and subcontractors
• Suppliers
• Architects and building designers
• Engineers
• Tradespeople

Whether the dispute stems from unmet contractual obligations, defective work, material supply issues, payment concerns or something else, we will provide comprehensive legal guidance aimed at securing a prompt, successful resolution.   

Types of construction contracts and their role in disputes 

Our firm handles claims involving a full range of construction contracts, including the following agreements: 

• Fixed-price — This contract is just what it sounds like—the contractor typically assumes full risk for performing to the stated price.

• Cost-plus — Because the price is not fixed, costs can rise as the project progresses, leading to potential conflicts. 

• Design-build — In these contracts, one entity is employed for both design and construction.

 

We strive to reduce the potential for disputes when we negotiate and draft contracts by ensuring signing parties are fully aware of their options, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each choice. 

Dispute resolution options

Methods of resolving construction disputes include the following:

• Negotiation — With effective representation, you might be able to obtain a fair settlement through negotiations between the parties’ attorneys. 
• Mediation — Should you seek to avoid trial through mediation, a trained and neutral third party will listen to each side and attempt to find common ground. However, each side must agree to the resolution. The mediator does not make the decision for them.  
• Arbitration — In arbitration, the parties present their arguments to a neutral arbitrator that both sides have agreed should review the case. Unlike a mediator, the arbitrator renders a decision that can be binding or nonbinding. 
• Litigation — When other methods of resolving a case are not successful, the parties will head to court. 

Our lawyers have obtained strong results representing parties to construction disputes in every type of forum.

Construction dispute litigation process

If your case goes to trial, we will assist you through every step of the litigation process including filing the legal claim, investigating what happened, conducting discovery and engaging expert witnesses when appropriate. Even if a lawsuit is filed, it can settle at any time. If it does not, you can rely on us for strong courtroom advocacy.  

Risk management and dispute prevention 

Disputes can often be prevented in the first place when responsibilities and obligations are clarified through comprehensive and unambiguous contracts, clear communication, regular project audits and inspections to identify potential issues before they erupt into serious conflicts. We advise construction project stakeholders about methods for managing and reducing risk from the outset of a project. 

Contact a Texas construction dispute attorney

At Hayes, Berry, White & Vanzant, LLP, we represent Texas clients in all types of construction disputes. Call 940-230-2386 or contact us online to arrange a consultation in our Denton, Flower Mound or Gainesville location.