Partner - Construction Law

A prominent New York City law firm is seeking a highly experienced Partner to lead its Construction Law practice. This position is ideal for a construction attorney with a strong record of client acquisition and retention, as well as a substantial portable book of business. The firm values diversity and encourages applications from candidates who will contribute to its inclusive culture. Compensation is highly competitive, with a focus on business origination and firm-wide collaboration. The firm also welcomes applications from small groups, provided their combined billings meet the firm’s threshold.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and expand the firm’s Construction Law practice, representing clients across all facets of the construction industry, including developers, contractors, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and suppliers.
• Maintain and grow a portfolio of clients, with a portable business of at least $600,000 in annual billings.
• Provide legal guidance on construction-related matters such as contract drafting and negotiation, project management, risk allocation, and regulatory compliance.
• Represent clients in disputes involving construction defects, contract claims, delay claims, and other construction-related litigation or arbitration.
• Offer strategic advice on project financing, public and private procurement, as well as construction insurance issues.
• Work closely with other practice areas to provide clients with integrated legal solutions on projects involving real estate, environmental issues, and regulatory approvals.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop junior attorneys to maintain the high standards of the practice while ensuring quality client service.
• Play an active role in business development by leveraging networks, participating in industry events, and identifying opportunities to grow the firm’s construction client base.
• Contribute to the firm’s diversity and inclusion initiatives by helping foster a more dynamic and culturally diverse workplace.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 8 years of experience practicing Construction Law, including litigation and transactional matters.
• Demonstrated ability to attract and retain clients, with a portable book of business generating at least $600,000 per annum.
• Deep knowledge of construction laws, including contract law, lien laws, and risk management.
• Extensive experience negotiating construction contracts, as well as handling disputes and litigation related to project delays, design issues, and construction defects.
• Proven leadership and team management experience, with the ability to mentor junior attorneys and oversee complex projects.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal issues into practical, actionable advice for clients.
• Ability to collaborate across the firm’s practice groups to offer clients comprehensive legal services on projects with multi-disciplinary aspects.

Education and Certifications:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Active membership in the New York State Bar (or eligibility for reciprocity).
• Certifications related to construction law or project management are advantageous but not required.

Desired Skills:

• Expertise in drafting, negotiating, and reviewing a wide range of construction-related agreements, including general contractor agreements, subcontractor agreements, and joint venture contracts.
• A thorough understanding of risk management and allocation in construction projects, with a focus on minimizing client exposure to legal and financial risks.
• Experience handling construction claims, including claims related to cost overruns, delays, scope changes, and unforeseen conditions.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on expanding the Construction Law practice and contributing to the firm’s broader business development initiatives.
• Commitment to client service, with the ability to manage multiple high-stakes projects while maintaining strong client relationships.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Compensation model focused primarily on business origination, with additional rewards for firm-wide collaboration.
• Competitive benefits package including 401(k) plan, health and dental insurance, disability coverage, and a subsidized gym membership.

The corporate law office is headquartered in New York. Over thirty-five veteran attorneys comprise their legal practice. They represent clients worldwide. The firm has eighty-five years of professional experience. There are six core areas of practice namely general corporate-securities, banking-finance, litigation, real estate, tax-tax planning and trusts-estates. Practice industries are diverse.