Dispute Resolution

We offer a comprehensive approach to dispute resolution from technical analysis determining the true causes of project concerns to quantifying the financial damages that follow. Our experts have extensive experience testifying during depositions, mediations and arbitrations, and our clients can count on our track-record of success in courtrooms if their claim goes to trial.

Track-Record of Success in Courtrooms 

SOCOTEC supports clients by successfully resolving complex disputes in a variety of industries. We offer a comprehensive approach to dispute resolution from technical analysis determining the true causes of project concerns to quantifying the financial damages that follow. Our experts have extensive experience testifying during depositions, mediations and arbitrations, and our clients can count on our track-record of success in courtrooms if their claim goes to trial.  

SOCOTEC professionals consult with a wide array of public entities, governmental agencies, private companies, sureties, and the law firms who serve them. SOCOTEC combines established methods with its extensive experience to provide its clients with efficient analysis, critical guidance, damages calculations, expert reports, and expert testimony. 

Through numerous engagements, we have provided a wide variety of services including claims evaluation and resolution, financial damage assessment, insured loss analysis, construction claims preparation and review, project management advisory services, fraud investigations, and class action administration and distribution. 

Our Dispute Resolution Team has 120+ experts across 11 offices in the US 

Technical Analysis to Financial Damages Quantification 

In the unfortunate event an engineering or construction claim does occur, SOCOTEC is equipped to provide ongoing support in assessing or validating a party’s entitlement and quantification of damages. By analyzing the contract documents and the parties’ performance throughout the project duration, SOCOTEC constructions claims consultants identify causes of impact, the effect of those causes on a project, and the associated quantification of damages. 

Initial Decision Maker 

With the 2011 revision of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Form A201, the concept of an “Initial Decision Maker” (IDM) was introduced. 

Traditionally, the architect has performed the contractual function of deciding disputes between owners and contractors. For various reasons, the parties are often uneasy with this situation. Therefore, the parties can choose an Initial Decision Maker (IDM) to resolve disputes prior to, and potentially in avoidance of, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. If an IDM is not identified in the contract, the Architect typically serves as the default decision maker. 

SOCOTEC’s team of design professionals, builders, and financial experts make us uniquely qualified to serve as an IDM on complex construction projects. Our extensive experience in complex construction situations enables us to be consistent in reviewing facts and apply standard industry practices to the unique situations that may arise during construction.