Steven J. Stuart

Outstanding guidance through a complex construction dispute

Our mid-sized commercial contracting firm was facing a significant payment dispute and potential lien claims on a multi-family project in Atlanta. The situation was complex, involving multiple subcontractors and a developer who was refusing to honor change orders we had properly executed. We needed counsel who understood both the legal intricacies and the practical realities of construction. Steven J. Stuart at Smith Currie Oles was recommended to us, and his involvement was decisive. Despite his relatively short time at the bar, his focused knowledge in construction law and litigation was immediately apparent. He didn't just recite legal theory; he explained the mechanics of lien waivers, payment bond claims, and the specific statutes governing Georgia construction projects in a way our project managers could grasp. His recognition in Best Lawyers for Construction Law and Litigation - Construction was evident in his strategic approach. Steven meticulously reviewed our project documentation, identified several contractual protections we had overlooked, and crafted a demand letter that was both forceful and professionally calibrated. Within three weeks, and without the need for us to file a lawsuit, he successfully negotiated a settlement that recovered 98% of our outstanding fees and preserved our relationship with the developer. His responsiveness and ability to translate legalese into actionable business advice were exceptional. For any Georgia contractor navigating a tough claim, Steven Stuart provides a formidable combination of sharp legal acumen and practical, results-oriented service.