Hello!
CONSTRUCTION LAW HELP LINE
I have worked in and around many parts of the construction business for nearly 30 years – first as a laborer, carpenter, project manager and General Contractor, and for the last twenty years as an attorney focused on Construction Law. I have also worked as an arbitrator and mediator in construction disputes. Like you, I hate what happens to contractors and owners when they end up in court. Nobody wins and nobody can afford it (especially these days).
Over the years I’ve learned a lot about the kinds of problems that Contractors and owners face and, more importantly, ways to resolve or better still, PREVENT many of these problems from occurring in the first place. My approach to problems in the construction business is tempered by a strong dose of job site reality gained while working as a Contractor. This is why an important part of my work is focused on PREVENTATIVE STEPS both owners and contractors can take to better organize and streamline the business basics (e.g. contracts, subcontracts, paperwork with the owner, etc…) in a way that minimizes agonizing and costly disputes and allows contractors and owners to have a successful relationship and quickly resolve disputes.
I’ve developed two primary ways to preventatively deal with construction disputes in a way that can actually increase your profits. The first is a book I wrote published by the JOURNAL OF LIGHT CONSTRUCTION called THE CONTRACTOR’S LEGAL KIT. The KIT was developed as a practical “tool” or guide that is now in its second edition and gives you 376 pages of my best and latest Construction Agreements and business/legal insights in a book that comes with the editable contracts and forms on a CD that is convertible into either IBM or Mac format. This second edition also incorporates language to address mold liability, a mold chapter and a mold information and addendum form.
I also have a supplement for the California Home Improvement Contract laws that simplifies this confusing area of the law for those of you that do residential home improvement work and don’t want the CSLB knocking at your door. The cost of the new edition of the Contractor’s Legal Kit with software is $69.95, plus tax and shipping. This is the best money you’ll ever spend on a tool that will organize your business relationships and save you money! The CA Home Improvement Contract Supplement is $55.
The second way you can prevent or resolve many disputes is through utilizing services offered through the CONSTRUCTION LAW HELP LINE. I established the CONSTRUCTION LAW HELP LINE to provide convenient & easy access to construction related legal information, assistance resolving payment disputes, and construction contract review/drafting services. The idea behind the CONSTRUCTION LAW HELP LINE is that an “ounce of prevention” at the right point in time can help a contractor to avoid or resolve some serious disputes and/or financial losses. Those of you who have ever been confused by a contract, had to sue or file a Mechanic’s Lien to be paid, or been unable to collect on a valid Change Order know what I mean… In California call (831) 476-8784 if you want to order THE CONTRACTOR’S LEGAL KIT from my office or have a legal consultation related to the construction business.
LAW OFFICE OF GARY RANSONE
2825 Porter Street, Suite A, Soquel, CA 95073
Phone: (831) 476-8784 Fax: (831) 476-1623
Email: garyransone@sbcglobal.net
Recommended by SCCG member Michael Hartrich
Gary Ransone is a clear thinker helping to navigate the complex system of construction law.
The Contractors Legal Kit is a comprehensive resource; I have used his contracts for the past 15 years and find them to be invaluable, proven over the test of time. A good contract protects both the contractor and the homeowner. Gary understands how to support a win/win relationship through contracts that actually communicate what is important for both parties.
Over the years, I have consulted with Gary several times and he has been extremely informative and helpful. The construction industry is complex, especially for my business as a design build company. Gary has distilled his experience and knowledge and is an excellent resource to the Santa Cruz community. He is a big fish in a little pond, much to our benefit.
Michele Landegger
Boa Constructor Building and Design
I have worked with Gary Ransone several times over the past twenty years and have never been disappointed with the legal outcome.
When the unexpected arises, as we all know it can, I put my trust, and faith in Gary knowing that he will apply his vast knowledge of Law, and General Contracting to work to get the very best results possible.
I couldn’t ask for a better Friend, Attorney, or Construction Contract Advisor.
Sandy G. Charney
General Contractor