Thoughts on construction law from Christopher G. Hill, Virginia construction lawyer, LEED AP, mediator, and member of the Virginia Legal Elite in Construction Law

Author Archives: Christopher G. Hill

Starting July 1, 2020 General Contractors are “Employers” for All Workers on Their Jobsite

Originally posted 2020-05-13 11:56:14. I have discussed the impactful legislation to the Virginia construction industry in prior posts here at Construction Law Musings.  One of those statutes that will take effect on July 1, 2020 will fundamentally change the relationships between general contractors and their subcontractors and suppliers.

Why Attorney Fees Provisions Must Be in Your Contracts

Originally posted 2015-01-22 09:35:10. This past July, the Roanoke Circuit Court reminded us all of the need to put attorney fees provisions in construction contracts.  In the case of Shen Valley Masonry, Inc. v. Thor, Inc., et al., the Court, among other rulings, allowed the defendant to collect its attorney fees because Thor had such

Virginia Mechanic’s Liens- Defense Options

Originally posted 2015-08-24 09:00:15. Here at Construction Law Musings, I have discussed the filing of mechanic’s liens in Virginia and various cases discussing the pitfalls to be found in the filing of these powerful collection tools.  However, I have rarely discussed the affirmative steps that an owner can take in defending against the filing of

Thoughts on New Pay if Paid Legislation (UPDATED with Final Text)

Originally posted 2022-03-23 10:54:51. Recently, the Virginia General Assembly closed its session having passed legislation essentially banning “pay if paid” clauses in construction contracts, both public and private.  Assuming that Governor Youngkin signs the bill into law on or before his deadline of April 11, 2022, the following new requirement will be grafted into any

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About Construction Law Musings

I am a construction lawyer in Richmond, Virginia, a LEED AP, and have been nominated by my peers to Virginia's Legal Elite in Construction Law on multiple occasions. I provide advice and assistance with mechanic's liens, contract review and consulting, occupational safety issues (VOSH and OSHA), and risk management for construction professionals.

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