Expertise Overview
Paul’s practice is focused on defending general contractors, real estate developers and specialty subcontractors in construction defect related litigation in both Oregon and Washington. Paul has over 25 years of experience in general litigation and appellate work, with the last 18 years devoted to construction defect litigation. He has gained significant expertise in defending design professionals in malpractice claims and defending builders against property owners in construction-related claims.
Prior to joining Smith Freed Eberhard, Paul worked for several years at a general practice firm where he focused criminal defense as well as on a wide range of civil litigation both at the trial and appellate level. Paul has experience in all phases of pre-trial practice, trial practice and appellate work.
Paul’s construction background includes a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering management from Central Washington State University. Before attending law school, he worked in the industrial construction industry as a construction engineer and project manager on large industrial and commercial construction projects.
Relevant Cases
Paul successfully appealed a fire loss case based on improper jury instruction as the measure of damages for injury to real property resulting in the reversal of a large award. He also successfully appealed litigation surrounding interpretation and application of Washington’s Notice of Construction Defect Statute. Paul has defended numerous dispositive motions in relation to
Insights & Thought Leadership
With a passion for his practice, Paul enjoys regularly giving presentations to construction professionals on legislative updates and case law affecting the Oregon and Washington construction industry.