Contract Disputes
When legal professionals approach us for assistance with a contract dispute, they are often dealing with questions about the terms of the agreement, performance failures, or possible breaches that may have led to significant financial losses or delays. In these cases, they need forensic expertise to dig into the details of the contract, the parties' obligations, and the actual performance against those terms. At CESI, we specialize in providing forensic contract analysis and we have extensive experience in helping legal profossionals understand how breaches or performance issues arose and whether the contractual terms were properly interpreted and followed.
Legal teams want to know whether the contract was clear and enforceable, whether the parties adhered to their obligations, and if deviations from the agreement were justified. We thoroughly review the contract in question, the project documentation, communications between parties, and any relevant supporting materials like invoices, change orders, and work logs. Our experts identify key contractual issues such as, performance criteria, or violations of terms—and provide detailed analysis of how those issues impacted the overall outcome of the contract. At our firm it is our goal is to present a clear understanding of the facts, supported by evidence, so that legal professionals are able to make informed decisions on how best to proceed.
What sets us apart is our ability to translate complex contract language into practical, understandable findings that are relevant to the case. We work closely with legal professionals to ensure our analysis focuses on the issues that matter most to the legal strategy, whether that is identifying possible breaches, quantifying damages, or evaluating claims of misperformance. Our forensic reports are designed not only to provide clarity on contractual obligations and performance, but also to explain the potential legal implications in a straightforward, effective manner.
Our experience extends to testifying as expert witnesses in contract dispute cases in trial, mediation, or arbitration. We have supported both plaintiffs and defendants in complex commercial and construction contract disputes, offering expert testimony that clarifies contractual obligations and performance metrics. We are prepared to present our findings in a way that strengthens your case, whether it is in depositions, mediation, or trial. By working with us, you gain a partner who understands both the technical and legal aspects of contract disputes, and who can support your case with integrity and authority.
Do you have a contract dispute where you need expert analysis to help clarify the key issues and strengthen your legal arguments? CESI can help.
A forensic architect provides an expert investigation of defects in the built environment, researches relevant building codes, building design and construction standards, and building design and construction contracts for matters in litigation.
Forensic architecture helps in legal cases by reconstructing and analyzing physical environments, to provide context. This can be used to support or challenge testimonies, verify events, or provide clarity in complex situations.
Forensic architecture is used in a wide range of cases, including environmental disasters, building collapses, slip, trip, and falls due to defective walking surfaces and defective construction. It is particularly useful in situations where physical evidence or witness testimonies need to be verified or clarified.
While traditional forensic science focuses on physical evidence, forensic architecture focuses on the spatial and environmental context of an incident. It uses architectural analysis, spatial relationships, and visual evidence to reconstruct events and provide a more comprehensive understanding of what happened.
Forensic architects often collaborate with other experts, including engineers and forensic scientists. They may work alongside teams of investigators to analyze physical evidence, interpret data, and present findings in a way that supports legal objectives.
Forensic analysis is more detailed and typically performed after a problem has occurred (e.g., structural failure), focusing on cause, liability, and often litigation.
- General contractors
- Subcontractors
- Architects and engineers
- Project managers or consultants
- Material suppliers
- Property owners or developers
Liability depends on contracts, negligence, code violations, or breach of duty.
- Structural failure or collapse
- Water intrusion or mold
- Code non-compliance
- Poor workmanship or material defects
- Delays and cost overruns
- Foundation and soil issues
- Safety or OSHA violations
- As-built drawings vs. design plans
- Inspection reports and punch lists
- Photographs, videos, drone footage
- Material test results
- Correspondence, emails, RFIs
- Building code references
Yes. Courts and arbitrators can apportion fault based on responsibility, contract terms, or contribution to the issue.
P.E. — President, Civil Engineer
Ronald J. Cohen, P.E., is a Civil Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree and over forty years of engineering experience. Mr. Cohen joined the firm in 1994 and has served as its Vice President since 2003. Prior to joining Consulting Engineers & Scientists, Inc., Mr. Cohen was…
Civil Engineer
Harry J. Dales is a Civil Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and over 25 years of engineering experience. Mr. Dales has extensive experience in engineering and construction, including roadways, highways, parking lots, traffic controls…
AIA, NCARB — Vice President, Registered Architect
David M. Kenney, A.I.A., is a Registered Architect with a Bachelor of Architecture degree and over twenty-five years of architectural experience. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Kenney was founder and President of DM Kenney Architects with architectural and construction management…
