John A Yacovelle

Practice Areas

John Yacovelle is an experienced first-chair trial lawyer who focuses on resolving disputes for clients in the construction and energy industries in California and beyond. Representing clients in jury trials, bench trials and domestic and international arbitrations, he has tried numerous cases to favorable verdicts or arbitration decisions.

In his construction litigation practice, John represents owners, developers, investors, designers and general contractors in connection with private and public works projects. He has been retained as lead counsel for a wide scope of projects including high rise hotels, hospitals, high speed railways, wind and solar projects, and major infrastructure projects. John handles the full range of claims arising from construction contracts, including claims relating to payment disputes, construction/design defects, delays and inefficiency, mechanic’s liens and stop notices, bonds and product liability issues John also negotiates construction and architectural agreements for his clients.

In his energy litigation practice, John has represented utilities in disputes related to power plants (including nuclear power plants), project financing, wildfire claims and other claims.

John also represents clients in complex commercial disputes, including corporate dissolution proceedings, enforcement of covenants not to compete, unfair competition, trade secret disputes, land acquisition and real estate disputes, matters before the probate court and breach of contract disputes.

Effective advocacy, for John, begins with understanding people. He takes the time to understand his clients’ goals, motivations and concerns, while also assessing the priorities and vulnerabilities of the other side. By figuring out what everyone at the table actually cares about, he is able to craft strategies that address what matters most and drive cases toward resolution.