Ritchie, Johnson & Stovall, P.C. has successfully represented contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers and owners in construction cases. The Firm has also successfully represented business clients and individuals in a variety of property and insurance coverage disputes. These types of cases require particular attention to detail for our clients. To achieve the best results, it is important for the Firm to be contacted as soon as possible once a dispute occurs. Many aspects of construction cases, property disputes and insurance coverage claims are governed by statutes and rules which have strict requirements and deadlines. Other aspects of these types of cases are determined by the terms and requirements of the parties’ contract. Preserving and confirming facts and records and meeting all required deadlines set by statute, rule or contract are critically important to a successful outcome.

How to Have Your Case Reviewed

The Firm is very selective in the cases it accepts and highly values its relationships with its clients. Before accepting a case, the Firm’s attorneys and paralegals meet with the potential client and often their families to learn the details of what happened and to discuss the potential client’s options for recovery. There is no fee or charge for the initial meeting. Most often, the first meeting is at the Firm’s offices. However, when individual circumstances make it more appropriate, a meeting may be arranged at a location outside the office, by internet or by phone.

Deadlines Applicable to Construction Cases, Property Disputes and Insurance Coverage Claims

There are deadlines and notice requirements applicable to construction cases, property disputes and insurance claims are often set by laws or contract terms which must be strictly followed. Otherwise, rights and remedies in this type of case may be lost, limited or waived. Also, to be prosecuted effectively, claims must be properly researched and investigated. Evidence is harder to find and preserve as time passes. For these reasons, it is important that businesses and persons who have suffered losses or damages during construction projects or as the result of property or insurance coverage disputes consult with an attorney as soon as possible after the loss or event occurs. Any delay in retaining an attorney may result in a significant disadvantage in the case.

How the Firm is Paid for its Work in Construction Cases, Property Disputes and Insurance Coverage Claims

The Firm is committed to helping its clients obtain the most efficient and cost-effective results possible in construction cases and property disputes. Usually, clients prefer to pay for the Firm’s work on an hourly basis at the Firm’s standard rates. However, each case and each client’s needs are unique and the Firm will consider fixed fee and alternate arrangements on an individual basis. In every case, the Firm’s agreement for fees and expenses is confirmed in writing at the beginning of the work.

The Firm’s Culture, Work Ethic, and Work with Referring Attorneys

The Firm work is client-focused and results oriented, recognizing that each case is unique and the work and strategy must be specific to each client’s goals. Aggressive representation, detailed investigative work and research, consistent communication, and accessibility are central to the Firm’s culture. The Firm’s attorneys enjoy a long standing, well-earned reputation for their work ethic and understand that when a case is successfully resolved before trial, it is most often because the attorneys have committed the work and resources necessary to be ready for trial. The Firm’s partners have tried many cases to verdict, both jury trials and bench trials. When consistent with the best outcome for its clients, the Firm also has secured successful resolutions of cases through mediation and other means of alternative dispute resolution. The Firm is often referred cases from other attorneys and when appropriate, welcomes the opportunity to work with referring attorneys on cases.