Speak to an Engineer-Lawyer now
Seasoned construction experts with extensive project knowledge.
Baker Merz Construction Lawyers brings together expertise in both quantity surveying and law, overseen by the Law Society and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
Why choose a law firm that depends on external consultants when you can work with specialists who have managed countless projects even before becoming legal experts?
Our team is more than just a group of lawyers; we are experienced engineers, quantity surveyors, and contract managers who have worked directly on projects, tackling real-life challenges alongside clients, consultants, subcontractors, local councils, and licensing bodies. Our principal, holding a DJUR with MCIBSE, MAIPM, MRICS, and C.Eng qualifications, has been involved with Bateman, AECOM, Fluor, and Tenova across various regions of Western Australia, including Joondalup. This hands-on experience helps us truly understand your issues and craft practical strategies.
We also have considerable experience as adjudicators and frequently represent clients in disputes under the Building and Construction Industry (Security of Payment) Act 2021, as well as in mediation, arbitration, and litigation.
We offer both guidance and representation to safeguard your interests—whether it’s drafting or reviewing contracts, securing payment for your work, obtaining permits from local authorities such as the City of Joondalup, or managing claims for delays or construction defects.
Key Factors to Consider
Expertise in Project Planning and Development: Professionals who have hands-on experience in both construction sites and design environments are best suited to interpret construction contracts effectively. This insight is crucial when navigating the construction industry in Joondalup.
Familiarity with Local Requirements: Understanding the approval processes, compliance obligations, and licensing standards specific to Joondalup is vital to successful project delivery.
Expert Knowledge of Construction Contracts: Thorough knowledge of a wide range of construction contracts (such as EPCM, PMC, PMCM, EPC, JVs, RCAs and TAs) ensures your interests are well protected.
Specialisation in Resolving Disputes: We have likely encountered similar disputes before. Nearly half of our clients reach settlements without needing formal legal action because we prepare comprehensive claims that cover variations, delays, payment issues, and costs—leading to early resolutions.
Client-Focused Service: Exceptional service, cost management, and responsiveness are key priorities. We value building long-term relationships with our clients.
Why engage us?
Over 50% of our clients settle their disputes even before legal action commences. This is because we prepare fully substantiated cost and delay claims that deal with defects, variations, valuation, disruption, and payment disputes on their projects with a solid contractual/legal argument that leads to amicable commercial negotiations and early settlement.
With 30 years of experience participating in design engineering teams and on-site construction as EMs, PMs or CAs, for leading companies such as CPB, Lend Lease, AECOM, Fluor, Worley Parsons, FMG, Rio Tinto, Worsley, and BHP, we guarantee our complete understanding of the issues that arise on heavy industry construction sites and understand the perspectives of all participants and stakeholders involved in a construction dispute - we likely already dealt with a dispute involving similar circumstances to what brought you to this website.
Why Choose us?
Regulated by RICS: We do not need to engage external construction experts; we are the experts. We are the only law firm in Australia regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This prestigious accreditation demonstrates our contracts/planning/ costing knowledge and commitment to upholding the construction industry's highest professional and ethical standards.
Tailored Solutions: Whether you are a contractor, developer, supplier, or consultant, we have the technical and commercial expertise to navigate the legal challenges you may encounter. We understand that every construction project is unique and pride ourselves on delivering tailored legal solutions that meet your needs.
Proactive Approach: We strive to identify and defuse potential issues before they escalate. Our attention to detail and thorough understanding of industry regulations ensure you receive comprehensive legal guidance at every stage of your project.
Client-Centred Service: Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We prioritize open communication, responsiveness, and a collaborative approach to ensure that we fully understand your goals and concerns. Our team is dedicated to providing you with personalized attention and guidance so that you can confidently make informed decisions.
Industry Connections: Over the years, we have built strong relationships with key stakeholders in the construction industry, including contractors, developers, architects, and engineers on every discipline. Our extensive network allows us to connect you with trusted professionals who can support your success.
Why engage a Law Firm that needs to be assisted by a “team of experts” when you have access to our Construction Experts that developed 100s of projects before coming into the law.