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Recent Articles from Sean Gay
Starting work before a contract is signed: risks, realities, strategies | Opinion
Consider these common approaches, associated pitfalls, and practical strategies for managing the desire to move forward with project construction before the contracts are complete.
A primer for decoding legal jargon in construction contracts | Opinion
It is likely that, for the foreseeable future, legal documents will include some measure of jargon. Consider these commonly misunderstood legal terms found in modern construction contracts.
Lesser-known insurance policies for addressing project risks | Opinion
In addition to the policies that form the core of any construction project insurance program, several other types should be considered.
Oregon’s Employer Liability Law: It is time for a change | OP-ED
Contrary to ELL鈥檚 original aim, the current statutory scheme arguably prioritizes risk shifting over worker safety.
OP-ED: How to know when bidding practices cross the line
As economic stimulus and infrastructure spending increase, an unfortunate side effect is an environment that encourages unethical and illegal bidding practices.
OP-ED: Strategic tips that parties should consider when mediating disputes
Although much of the work preparing for mediation is done by lawyers, clients should keep some considerations in mind to maximize the possibility of a successful outcome.
OP-ED: Warning signs that a contractor may be overextended
One of the challenges for construction companies during the building boom is recognizing and avoiding work with other firms that have bitten off more than they can chew.
OP-ED: The sureties strike back: the expedited dispute resolution bond
Subcontractor default insurance (SDI) has been gaining in popularity among general contractors. SDI is insurance that covers certain losses related to a subcontractor鈥檚 material breach of a subcontract. Contractors favor […]
OP-ED: A lawyer’s checklist for starting a project in a strong position
The start of construction is the culmination of significant effort on the part of the owner, designers, contractors and others. It is an exciting 鈥� and often hectic 鈥� time. […]
OP-ED: When the best project team may not be enough
In this month's Construction Advice column, attorney Sean Gay offers a list of the basic points a teaming agreement should address.
OP-ED: Seven habits of successful negotiators
If you dislike negotiating, you are not alone. The number of 鈥渘o haggle, no hassle鈥� car dealerships is but one indication that many people would rather not negotiate. At those […]
OP-ED: 10 important termination considerations
There are not many actions a contracting party can take that involve more risk than the decision to terminate a contract for default.
News
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $10.6 million in top bidders | July 31, 2026
- Many Oregon counties struggling to maintain their fairgrounds
Commentary
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization 鈥� the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion
- Adjust to legal changes now to ensure compliance later | Opinion
