Pass Christian Construction Law Attorney

Pass Christian Construction Law Lawyer

Construction work brings big expectations, but stress can take over when legal issues arise. An experienced Pass Christian, MS, construction law attorney can provide legal guidance to protect your projects and stop delays. They can help you use the rules to your advantage.

We Build Cases That Win

Construction problems can lead to legal disputes. We take these cases seriously. At Dunlap Fiore, LLC, we have over 80 years of combined legal experience. Every case gets our full attention. We talk in plain terms so our clients know where their case stands.

Common Types of Construction Disputes

Mississippi had a gross domestic product of $124.2 billion in 2025. Some of this includes construction projects. Here are some of the most common issues:

• Missed deadlines. Construction contracts include timelines. Property owners can face penalties if contractors fall behind. A missed deadline may lead to a breach of contract claim. However, owners can seek compensation for extra costs from the delay.
• Faulty workmanship. Poor work can lead to structural and other types of failure. Owners often have to pay out of pocket to fix mistakes. Construction law allows claims against the party responsible. A contractor might be required to pay someone else to fix it.
• Nonpayment. This issue often affects suppliers. When they don’t get paid, work stops. Mississippi law gives them the right to file a construction lien. That lien puts pressure on the owner to settle the bill.
• Contract disputes. Misunderstandings about the contract terms are common. These might involve the scope of the work. Pricing changes can also happen. Unclear terms can lead to one side saying that the other one breached the deal.
• Code violations. Projects must follow building codes. They also have to get proper permits. If not, cities can fine property owners. They might even force the work to stop entirely. These mistakes can lead to legal claims.

The market size for home builders in Mississippi is $292.4 million, which can lead to a lot of competition. Construction disputes can arise in this lucrative environment, leading to delays and lost profits.

Construction Liens

Construction liens give people a tool to recover unpaid debts. In Mississippi, this is known as a mechanic’s lien. This applies to anyone who improves a property and doesn’t get paid. In such cases, they can file a lien against the property itself.

That lien makes it hard to do anything with the property until the debt is settled. However, the law in Mississippi sets short timelines for this.

A contractor usually must file the lien within 90 days of finishing the work. The 90-day timeframe starts on the last day the services are provided. Once filed, the lien must be enforced by filing a claim in court. This step must be taken within 180 days.

Owners should watch for lien notices. This is especially true if payments to subcontractors fall behind. An attorney can confirm whether the lien was filed correctly.

Resolving Disputes

Not all disputes need a court. Many construction contracts include alternative dispute resolution contracts. They can either include mediation or arbitration.

Mediation involves a neutral third party helping both sides reach a deal. This informal process is most effective when both sides want to move on from the dispute.

Arbitration is more like a court setting. Each side presents their side. After this, a neutral third party decides the outcome. That decision is often binding. It can move faster than a court case.

Litigation is still an option. It may be the right choice if there is a lot of money involved. It might even be required if one side refuses to cooperate. Each path has pros and cons. The contract often decides which one applies.

Why Do I Need an Attorney?

Legal trouble doesn’t always start with a dispute. Sometimes, the signs show early. A lawyer can take preventive measures before these problems grow.

A legal review of the contract at the start of a project helps set clear terms. It can also prepare for and prevent common problems. If a dispute does come up, a lawyer can protect your rights.

Mississippi construction law has short timelines. Waiting too long can mean missing the chance to file a claim. A knowledgeable and experienced attorney can build a stronger case.

Project delays can cost money. Hiring a Pass Christian attorney can seem like an expense early on. However, the value is clear once solid contracts are in place. Their work prevents costly legal battles.

FAQs

What Are the Legal Remedies When a Contractor Fails to Meet a Deadline?

The legal remedies when a contractor fails to meet a deadline include filing a legal claim. They could file for a breach of contract. Mississippi law allows owners to seek damages. This is especially true if the delay caused financial harm. These damages can include building costs. Owners can also ask the contractor to fix the delay.

How Does Mississippi Law Handle Construction Defects?

Mississippi law handles construction defects based on the timing. Defect claims are subject to time limits. People have three years from the date they discover the defect to file. However, Mississippi also imposes a statute of repose. This limits the timing, regardless of when a defect is found. Claims are barred six years after the construction is finished.

What Happens If a Construction Project Violates Local Zoning Laws?

If a construction project violates local zoning laws, it could lead to a stop-work order. Zoning laws limit how land is used. Owners may need to make changes if the city steps in. In some cases, the work may need to be removed. Fines can follow if the violation is ignored. It’s important to review the plans with local officials before building starts.

How Can Alternative Dispute Resolution Resolve Construction Disputes?

Alternative dispute resolution can resolve construction disputes without going to court. The two main forms are mediation and arbitration. In mediation, a neutral third party tries to reach an agreement with both parties. It’s non-binding unless a deal is made. Arbitration is more formal. Each side presents their case to an arbitrator. That decision can be final.

Don’t Let Legal Problems Stall Your Progress

There was $3.986 billion in construction spending in Mississippi in 2023. Construction law is here to protect this funding. If you encounter a legal issue with your project, an attorney can understand what you’re facing. Schedule a consultation with Dunlap Fiore, LLC, for support.