Department profile
Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP

Construction

USA Guide 2026 : California

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Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP

Rankings

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Construction - California

Band 2

What the Team is Known For

Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP is recognized for its notable construction litigation capabilities, maintaining an active presence in disputes arising from major public projects. The team also frequently advises on contract negotiation and administration. It has significant experience advising insurance companies in their roles as sureties for construction projects. The firm offers particular strength in the south of the state from its Irvine office.

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Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Watt Tieder represented Travelers in a $35 million dispute arising from the default termination of general contractor Jokake Construction on a hospital project.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The team demonstrates subject matter expertise, excellent judgment and integrity.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • Watt Tieder has excellent legal strategists who take the time learn their client's needs and tailor their services to attain the best possible results.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • The firm is excellent all around.

    Construction respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • David F. McPherson
    David F. McPherson

    David F. McPherson

    David McPherson is the managing partner of the firm’s Irvine office and is well regarded for his construction practice, regularly handling disputes relating to significant infrastructure projects. He advises on contract disputes and has notable experience sitting as an arbitrator.

    • David is insightful and has our best interest at heart.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • I personally feel fortunate to work with Dave McPherson, and everyone at my organization feels the same way.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Robert Niesley
    Robert Niesley

    Robert Niesley

    Robert Niesley frequently acts for construction sureties in major disputes, including those involving delays, extra costs and contract terminations. He offers significant experience in both state and federal court litigation as well as ADR.

    • Robert Niesley provides great counsel, is deliberate in his approach and is always focused on the big picture.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Jane Kearl
    Jane Kearl

    Jane Kearl

    Jane Kearl represents developers, owners, and contractors nationwide in both transactional and litigation construction matters. She is regarded for drafting construction, consultant, and trade agreements for mixed-use, commercial, and residential projects, with a particular emphasis on multifamily developments and solar-related issues.

    • Jane Kearl has an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Jane is a phenomenal attorney and legal asset to our company.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Jane Kearl always makes herself available.

      Construction respondentUSA
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Ranked Individuals at Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP (3)

California

Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP has rankings in the following guides

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