Department profile
Zetlin & De Chiara LLP

Construction

USA Guide 2026 : New York

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Zetlin & De Chiara LLP

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About

Provided by Zetlin & De Chiara LLP

Zetlin & De Chiara LLP provides sophisticated, innovative legal representation and business counsel to real estate owners, commercial and residential developers, architects and engineers on all aspects of construction projects and disputes. The firm's attorneys bring a rare blend of expertise to their work including in-house construction counsel experience, LEED accreditation, and education in architecture and engineering.

Zetlin & De Chiara provides counsel through the construction planning, design and building process, from drafting and negotiating contracts to developing risk management strategies. With a bench of experienced trial lawyers, we have been repeatedly brought in to solve massive disputes that inevitably occur in the construction industry. When construction-related disputes arise, we serve as advisors to our clients from the onset of litigation. We have a reputation and track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients, even in difficult circumstances. Our attorneys draft and negotiate the contracts necessary to bring our clients’ construction and design projects to life. Zetlin & De Chiara also assists clients with business formation, licensing and corporate issues. Zetlin & De Chiara has been involved with many iconic projects in the education, healthcare, hospitality, infrastructure, transportation, cultural, environment and energy sectors.

Industries (1)

  • Construction

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Construction - New York

Band 1

What the Team is Known For
Zetlin & De Chiara is a respected construction law boutique distinguished for its representation of architectural and engineering firms, and increasingly owners and developers. The firm has notable strength in litigation and arbitration in addition to contract review and negotiations. The team handles a wide range of public and private sector developments, including retail, infrastructure, industrial and residential projects. It demonstrates additional expertise in project labor agreements and real estate licensing agreements.
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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Zetlin & De Chiara has a cohesive team approach. As such, it is able to provide seamless support for its clients and make the process as effortless and painless as is practicable.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • The firm understands our sector and our specific needs. It can provide commercial and pragmatic advice and is very much a trusted adviser.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • Zetlin & De Chiara is at the forefront of this industry and as such is very knowledgeable and well respected.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • The attorneys at Zetlin & De Chiara are very knowledgeable and understand the practicalities of my business, not just the law.

    Construction respondentUSA

  • Zetlin & De Chiara has experienced legal professionals in real estate, design and construction.

    Construction respondentUSA

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Michael K De Chiara
    Michael K De Chiara

    Michael K De Chiara

    Michael De Chiara works predominantly with design-side construction professionals, including architects and engineers, on high-stakes structural or design defect suits. He is highly experienced in delay claims, costs issues and contract negotiation and drafting.

    • Michael De Chiara is incredibly proactive in helping his clients avoid legal issues before they become legal issues, as well as establishing very straightforward legal defenses for his clients. His background as both an engineer and as an architect gives him amazing insight into any issue that arises with his clients and in his cases.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Michael De Chiara is among the best in his area.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Michael S Zetlin
    Michael S Zetlin

    Michael S Zetlin

    Michael Zetlin has built an excellent practice representing design professionals in litigation and arbitration. He also frequently advises on risk management issues and other issues affecting developers during the course of projects.

    • Michael's years of experience and sophistication as a construction litigator are unparalleled. His ability to navigate complex issues swiftly and his presence when dealing with C-suite executives are impressive. He commands respect from attorneys, construction executives and field personnel alike.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Michael Vardaro
    Michael Vardaro

    Michael Vardaro

    Managing partner Michael Vardaro represents a broad range of sector clients, including architects and engineers, in construction-related disputes. He is particularly adept at advising on design and construction defect claims and contract issues.

    • Michael Vardaro is an industry leader and has a truly strategic mindset. He works well with others on his team to provide terrific insight and legal expertise to his clients. He has a welcoming personality with a demonstrable legal presence.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Michael is an excellent lawyer technically and commercially with an ability to deliver succinct and astute advice.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Raymond T Mellon
    Raymond T Mellon

    Raymond T Mellon

    Raymond Mellon is a litigator and arbitrator who focuses on design defect and damages cases. He has additional experience in general contract issues associated with construction projects.

    • Raymond Mellon is able to break down the issues in a matter and does not just go through the motions in trying to come to a resolution. He is very economical and succinct in trying to get the matter resolved.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Carol J Patterson
    Carol J Patterson

    Carol J Patterson

    Carol Patterson has an expansive construction practice encompassing both complex litigation and transactional matters. Her main areas of focus include advising architects in contractual and risk management matters.
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  • Bill Chimos
    Bill Chimos

    Bill Chimos

    Bill Chimos has notable experience representing architects, engineers, design professionals, contractors and other construction clients in litigation matters, as well as advising on issues related to licensing, contract drafting and risk management. He also has a significant alternative dispute resolution practice.

    • Bill is practical and business focused.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Bill is fantastic and a great lawyer. It is always a pleasure working with him.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Bill always goes the extra mile to make sure we are being guided in the right direction.

      Construction respondentUSA
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  • Jaimee Nardiello
    Jaimee Nardiello

    Jaimee Nardiello

    Jamiee Nardiello is a partner at the firm focusing on construction litigation and environmental law. She handles high profile and complex matters. In addition, she is currently chair of the D&I Committee at the American Bar Association’s Forum on Construction Law.

    • Jaimee is an incredible litigator.

      Construction respondentUSA

    • Jaimee is very bright and easy to work with.

      Construction respondentUSA
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Ranked Individuals at Zetlin & De Chiara LLP (7)

New York

Members

Provided by Zetlin & De Chiara LLP

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