Construction

Chair of the firm David Dekker has exceptional expertise leading insurance coverage disputes at both the trial and appellate levels. He has further experience in a range of construction, surety and related commercial matters.

Jeffrey Gans, chair of Pillsbury's public-private partnership team, is noted for his work in construction contracting and disputes practice. He also handles litigation avoidance work. He has extensive experience advising owner, developer and contractor-side clients in the construction of energy and commercial projects.

"He's easy to work with, understands the issues and is very pragmatic in his approach. Packed into all that, he's a stern negotiator."

"His approach, expertise, results and professionalism are the platinum standard."

Michael Jaffe frequently represents project owners, contractors and other participants in domestic and international arbitrations.

"Michael is a very good trial lawyer. He is very analytical and very strategic. These are traits that we look for in trial lawyers."

"Michael is very smart and knowledgeable in construction law, but also at handling contracts and disputes. He has been wonderful and very attentive."

Michael McNamara handles insurance coverage, engineering and general construction disputes at trial and before arbitral panels.

"Michael is a go-to attorney for our complex disputes."

"The things I would highlight about him is his capacity in getting into the weeds and attention to detail, but not getting lost in it."

"He's an extremely skilled and tenacious litigator."

Melissa Lesmes cochairs Pillsbury's construction counseling and dispute resolution practice group. She has substantial experience in construction defect litigation as well as construction-related insurance coverage cases. She also advises on contract negotiation and risk management issues.

"I think she is very sharp but also very practical."

"She is a unicorn in the legal industry. She is personable while displaying an expert level of experience and knowledge."

"I would consider her the insurance recovery expert. She is excellent at understanding the policies and understanding the players in the world and is focused on cost-effective results."

Laura LoBue is well versed in handling litigation and arbitration matters, with a focus on construction, engineering and energy-related disputes.

"Laura manages to balance both an expert individual skill set while also engaging a diverse team of colleagues to provide complete coverage on our matters."

"Her energy and advocacy are both appreciated and directed toward achieving a best outcome."

"Laura is an excellent disputes lawyer who gives practical, results-based advice."

"Laura provides invaluable counseling and perspective on legal strategy on complex matters, and is a trusted sounding board for options and solutions in a dispute."