Construction Dispute Resolution: Managing Conflict for Results
The construction industry is inherently contentious. Clash of interests between the client, contractor, architect, and engineer is inevitable in large-scale projects. Construction Dispute Resolution covers a wide range of mechanisms — from negotiation to arbitration and litigation. Construction disputes are characterized by technical complexity: a lawyer must understand not only the law but also engineering details, drawings, and construction standards.
Mismanagement of a dispute can lead to project suspension, freezing of bank accounts, and company bankruptcy. In addition to traditional courts, Dispute Adjudication Boards (DAB/DRB) and mediation are actively used in modern construction to speed up the process. Legal.ge offers access to specialized lawyers experienced in resolving complex engineering-legal disputes who can protect your investment.
What Does Dispute Resolution Service Cover?
Specialists on Legal.ge offer strategic support:
- Negotiation and Mediation: Resolving conflicts at an early stage to maintain business relationships and keep the project moving.
- Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB): Establishing a special board under FIDIC contracts that makes operational decisions during construction.
- Arbitration: Resolving disputes in arbitration (local or international), which is faster and more technically competent than general courts.
- Court Litigation: Representation in common courts, applying interim measures (injunctions/attachments), and claiming damages.
- Technical Expertise: Engaging engineering and construction experts to gather evidence.
Common Scenarios and Real-World Examples
Disputes often concern:
- Payment Disputes: The client refuses to pay the final installment, citing poor quality. The contractor claims the work meets standards.
- Scope Increase: Rocky soil was found during excavation, increasing costs. Parties disagree on who should bear this cost.
- Calling on Bonds: The client demanded the Performance Bond amount from the bank. The contractor tries to stop this via court injunction.
Georgian Legal Framework
Dispute resolution is based on:
Civil Procedure Code: Defines rules for litigation in court. Due to construction specifics, forensic expertise is often appointed.
Law on Arbitration: Georgia is an arbitration-friendly jurisdiction. Arbitral awards are final and enforcement is streamlined.
Law on Mediation: Allows disputes to be resolved confidentially and quickly with the help of a mediator.
Step-by-Step Service Process
Working with a lawyer on Legal.ge involves:
- Case Analysis: Studying the contract and factual circumstances.
- Forum Selection: Court vs. Arbitration (if the contract allows).
- Strategy: Developing offensive (lawsuit) or defensive positions.
- Representation: Defending interests during the proceedings.
Why Choose Legal.ge?
A construction dispute is not an ordinary court case. It requires specific knowledge. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers with in-depth knowledge of Construction Law who can translate complex technical details into language understandable to a judge. Resolve disputes effectively.
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