Posts By: Chris Wielinski

San Antonio Construction Attorney Stephanie O’Rourke Honored as Fellow of American College of Construction Lawyers

Principal of Cokinos | Young and esteemed construction attorney in San Antonio, Stephanie O’Rourke, has been accorded the prestigious position of Fellow within the American College of Construction Lawyers (ACCL). As a distinguished national entity in the domain of construction law, the ACCL extends Fellowship exclusively by invitation to legal professionals who have distinguished themselves in the practice or academic sphere of construction law and dispute resolution relating to the infrastructure sector. Selection as a Fellow signifies a career distinguished by ethical integrity, intellectual leadership, dedication to professionalism, and a spirit of collegiality, along with a dedication to contribute positively to the construction sector. The ACCL’s fellowship encompasses eminent lawyers from across the globe, including the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and France. Stephanie has the unique honor of being the first San Antonio-based construction attorney to be invited to join this elite international assembly.

“We are thrilled that Stephanie has been invited to join this prestigious organization,” said Principal and CEO Gregory Cokinos. “Her unwavering commitment to the construction industry, expertise, high ethical standards, professionalism, and collegiality will be invaluable to the College’s mission and noble efforts to improve and enhance the practice and understanding of construction law.”

As a vital part of the litigation team at the San Antonio office, construction attorney Stephanie O’Rourke brings her expertise to the forefront of the firm’s legal services. Her specialized practice is primarily dedicated to representing general contractors in San Antonio, steering them through the intricacies of construction contract negotiations, dispute resolutions, and multifaceted business litigations. Stephanie’s track record is adorned with a series of successful verdicts and settlements, cementing her reputation as a prominent construction attorney in San Antonio. Her legal prowess is acknowledged by several prestigious directories and institutions, such as Chambers USA and Best Lawyers in America, highlighting her as a preeminent figure in the construction law arena.

Stephanie will be formally inducted into the American College of Construction Lawyers during its February 2024 meeting in Carlsbad, California.

Stephanie L. O’Rourke

About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

We are Doing Good, But We Can Do Better – The Importance of Safety in Construction

Houston Principal Patrick Garner recently wrote the following article for the November edition of Construction News magazine. Here, Patrick discusses the importance of safety in construction.

“There are three kinds of lies: Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics” — This famous quote has been attributed to Mark Twain, but no one really knows where it originated.

Regarding construction safety information, the majority of information comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and according to the BLS, there were 5,190 workplace fatalities in 2021. More than 1,000 of those fatalities were in the construction sector. Furthermore, more than one hundred sixty-nine thousand two hundred (169,200) non-fatal construction related injuries occurred in 2021. However, that is not the worst part.

What is worse — the statistics only represent those incidents reported and recorded. Approximately 65% of incidents are never reported, recorded, or documented as a construction injury. That is a lot of lost time, lost productivity, and lost opportunity.

The good news is… We are getting better. The numbers are actually trending downward.

Construction sites are dynamic environments where skilled workers labor to bring architectural visions to life. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s essential to remember that safety should always be the top priority. The risks inherent in construction work can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities if proper precautions aren’t taken.

Protect Lives and Livelihoods

The most compelling reason to prioritize safety on a construction site is to protect the lives of workers. Construction is inherently dangerous, with hazards ranging from falls, machinery accidents, electrical shocks, to exposure to hazardous substances. As shown above, nearly 20% of all worker fatalities in the United States occur in the construction industry. This alarming statistic underscores the vital need for stringent safety protocols.

Beyond preserving lives, safety measures also safeguard the livelihoods of workers. A construction accident can result in debilitating injuries that lead to extended periods of recovery or even permanent disability. This can have devastating financial consequences for both the affected worker and their family. Additionally, accidents can result in costly lawsuits and fines for construction companies, potentially jeopardizing the viability of the project and the business itself.

Enhance Productivity and Efficiency

A safe work environment is also a more efficient one. When workers feel secure, they can focus on their tasks without the distraction of worrying about potential hazards. This fosters a culture of productivity and professionalism. Conversely, when safety is neglected, workers may be reluctant to fully engage with their tasks, leading to reduced output and lower-quality work.

Moreover, a safe work-site minimizes the likelihood of accidents and disruptions. A single accident can halt operations for hours or even days as investigations are conducted and damaged equipment is repaired or replaced. This downtime can lead to significant delays in project completion, incurring additional costs and potentially tarnishing the reputation of the construction company.

Comply with Legal and Regulatory Standards

Adhering to safety protocols is not just a matter of ethics; it’s a legal requirement. Regulatory bodies like OSHA in the United States and similar organizations worldwide impose stringent safety standards for construction sites. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines and even criminal charges in cases of gross negligence.

In addition to governmental regulations, many clients and project owners now require contractors to meet specific safety criteria as part of their contracts. Non-compliance can lead to the termination of contracts, loss of business, and damage to a company’s reputation.

Foster a Culture of Responsibility

Prioritizing safety sends a powerful message to workers that their well-being is valued. This fosters a culture of responsibility and accountability. When employees see that their employer is committed to their safety, they are more likely to take personal responsibility for their actions and the well-being of their colleagues.

Furthermore, when safety is a core value of a construction company, it attracts and retains high-caliber workers. Skilled laborers are more likely to seek out employers who prioritize their safety and well-being, leading to a more skilled and capable workforce.

Implement Safety Measures

Ensuring safety on a construction site involves a multifaceted approach. Here are some key measures that can be implemented:

  1. Regular Training: Provide comprehensive training to all workers on safety protocols, hazard recognition, and proper use of equipment.
  2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure that all workers have access to and are wearing appropriate PPE, including helmets, safety glasses, gloves, and harnesses.
  3. Fall Protection: Install guardrails, safety nets, and harness systems to protect workers from falls, which are a leading cause of construction accidents.
  4. Machinery Safety: Regularly inspect and maintain all construction equipment, and provide thorough training on their safe operation.
  5. Emergency Response Plans: Establish clear protocols for responding to accidents or emergencies, and ensure that all workers are familiar with these procedures.
  6. Site Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to identify and address potential hazards before they lead to accidents.
  7. Communication: Encourage open communication between workers and supervisors regarding safety concerns or suggestions for improvement.

Safety on a construction site is not a luxury but an absolute necessity. It protects lives, preserves livelihoods, enhances productivity, ensures legal compliance, and fosters a culture of responsibility. By implementing rigorous safety measures, construction companies can create a work environment that not only delivers high-quality projects but also prioritizes the well-being of your most valuable asset: your workers.

Houston Principal Patrick Garner is a trial lawyer with more than 26-years of experience handling litigation, administrative proceedings, arbitrations, and appeals in both federal and state court. His experience is handling matters involving commercial and industrial construction, construction safety, wrongful death, personal injury defense, premises liability, employment litigation and administrative proceedings, and commercial litigation. Patrick has handled matters all over the United States. 

Patrick is AV rated, a member of State Bar Litigation, Construction, and Labor & Employment Law Sections, as well as the Houston Bar Association Litigation, Construction, and Labor & Employment Law Sections. Patrick is a member of various professional organizations including: the College of the State Bar of Texas, Texas Association of Defense Counsel, Associated Builders & Contractors, Associated General Contractors of America, and the Society of Construction Lawyers – North America. He is admitted to practice in all Texas state and federal courts, as well as the Fifth Circuit and United States Supreme Court.


About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’sCokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

Cokinos Continues to Advocate as a Friend of the Court and the Construction Industry

Pat Wielinski and the Cokinos | Young Insurance Coverage Group have recently filed an amici curiae brief on behalf of Associated General Contractors of America, National Association of Home Builders, and three of their local Florida chapters in Case No. 23-12715-F, Liberty Surplus Insurance Corporation v. Kaufman Lynn, Inc. before the United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit. The brief was filed in support of Kaufman Lynn Construction, a general contractor, and addressed a troublesome issue as to the interaction of a course of construction exclusion and the extended completed operations coverage frequently found in controlled insurance programs (wrap-ups). These programs insure all participants on large construction projects. In this case, the district court declined to find a completed and occupied phase in an office project to be “completed,” thus denying coverage for property damage to the insured participants that were insured under the wrap-up’s commercial general liability policy. The brief argued that standard notions of completion within the construction industry and the insurance policy itself rendered each phase “completed” upon occupancy and issuance of a certificate of substantial completion. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Pat at pwielinski@cokinoslaw.com. A copy of the brief can be found below.



Patrick J. Wielinski

About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

Construction Law Firm Insights: Are You Ready for the Rise in DOL Audits on Your Jobsite?

In response to the Biden Administration’s commitment to increasing oversight, the Department of Labor (DOL) is intensifying its audit efforts in various industries, notably in construction. A notable Dallas construction law firm, Cokinos | Young, recently reported that one of their general contractor clients experienced an impromptu inspection by a pair of DOL investigators. Although the contractor was found to be in compliance, the DOL proceeded to interview approximately 8-10 subcontractor employees during their thirty-minute visit. The investigators inquired about wage compliance, child labor, and overtime payments, focusing on direct questions to the workers rather than requesting to review any official postings or documentation on the premises.

Cokinos | Young, a premier construction law firm in Dallas, is actively counseling general contractors on the formulation of comprehensive policies for their site managers to effectively manage such unexpected DOL visits. The firm underscores the importance of preemptive measures, including specialized training for site personnel to ensure preparedness for any DOL inquiries. This proactive strategy is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and demonstrating compliance during these increased regulatory activities.

If you need assistance in preparing your jobsite, the Cokinos | Young Labor and Employment Team is ready to assist. Contact our office at 713-535-5500 or by filling out the form below.

Cokinos | Young Nationally Ranked Tier 1 Law Firm in 2024 Best Law Firms®

Cokinos | Young is pleased to announce that the firm has been recognized in the 2024 edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers®, for the 14th consecutive year. Cokinos is listed nationally in 3 practice areas and regionally in 9 practice areas.

Firms included in the 2024 Best Law Firms® list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. To be considered for this milestone achievement, at least one lawyer in the law firm must be recognized in the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®.

The Best Lawyers in America® recognizes the top four percent of practicing attorneys in the United States. Cokinos | Young has twenty-seven lawyers listed in The Best Lawyers in America – Conor G. Bateman, Travis M. Brown, Craig H. Clendenin, Gregory M. Cokinos, Stephanie H. Cook, Stanley W. Curry, Jay K. Farwell, J. Parker Fauntleroy, W. Patrick Garner, Charles W. Getman, Anthony T. Golz, John L. Grayson, Gabriel S. Head, Michael B. Hiddemen, Philip Kinkaid, Beau E. LeBlanc, Dana Livingston, Robert J. MacPherson, Shelly D. Masters, Stephanie L. O’Rourke, Craig E. Power, Darrell W. Taylor, Roger D. TownsendJohn C. Warren, Peter Boyd Wells IV, Patrick J. Wielinski, Marc A. Young.

Ranked firms, presented in tiers, are listed on a national and/or metropolitan scale. Receiving a tier designation reflects the high level of respect a firm has earned among other leading lawyers and clients in the same communities and the same practice areas for their abilities, their professionalism and their integrity.

Cokinos | Young received the following rankings in the 2024 Best Law Firms®:

  • National Tier 1
    • Litigation – Construction
  • National Tier 2
    • Appellate Practice
    • Construction Law
  • Regional Tier 1
    • Austin
      • Construction Law
    • Dallas/Fort Worth
      • Construction Law
      • Insurance Law
      • Litigation – Construction
    • Houston
      • Appellate Practice
      • Construction Law
      • Litigation – Construction
      • Personal Injury Litigation – Defendants
    • New Jersey
      • Litigation – Construction
    • San Antonio
      • Commercial Litigation
      • Construction Law
      • Litigation – Construction
  • Regional Tier 2
    • Austin
      • Appellate Practice
      • Litigation – Construction
    • Houston
      • Commercial Litigation
      • Corporate Law
      • Real Estate Law
    • New Jersey
      • Construction Law
  • Regional Tier 3
    • Houston
      • Admiralty & Maritime Law

ABOUT COKINOS | YOUNG

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

ABOUT BEST LAW FIRMS®

Best Law Firms® is the most credible rankings of exceptional law firms, rooted in a rigorous, peer-to-peer, industry-driven evaluation. Achieving a tiered ranking in Best Law Firms signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise. Ranked firms, presented in three tiers, are recognized on a national and metro-based scale. The reputation earned over the past 14 years and a future-focused commitment to innovation provides legal professionals with an elevated stature, validation and confidence that comes from being part of, and working with, a Best Law Firms honored practice.

ABOUT BEST LAWYERS®

Best Lawyers® is the oldest and most respected peer-review research and accolades company in the legal profession. Best Lawyers compiles extensive recognitions by conducting exhaustive peer-review surveys in which tens of thousands of leading lawyers confidentially evaluate the work of their fellow legal professionals within their local market and specialty. Lawyers are not required or allowed to pay a fee to be listed; therefore, recognition by Best Lawyers is considered a singular honor.

Houston Construction Lawyer’s Perspective: The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Construction – Impacts on Subcontractors, Bonding, Insurance, & Bidding

The construction realm is undergoing a profound shift as artificial intelligence and automation become increasingly prevalent. Innovative tech, such as drones, robotic devices, and sophisticated equipment, is revolutionizing the industry’s fabric. In our exploration, we delve into the effects these AI-propelled tools may have on subcontractors, their operations, and the bidding process for projects, as well as on the established norms of bonding and insurance within the industry—a topic of particular interest to a construction lawyer in Houston.

Transformative AI in Houston’s Construction Industry

Trailblazing firms are leading the charge in creating construction-specific aerial drones, autonomous robots, and intelligent machines. Drones, outfitted with high-definition optics by front-runners such as DJI and Parrot, are redefining the way site evaluations and inspections are conducted. Companies like Boston Dynamics are at the vanguard, offering commercially available robots like Spot—a nimble quadruped designed to independently carry out inspection tasks typically assigned to human inspectors. This company is also in the process of refining Atlas, a bipedal robot geared towards performing general labor tasks on construction sites, tasks that would benefit from the oversight of a construction lawyer in Houston. Furthermore, industry giants like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Volvo are advancing their heavy machinery, integrating sophisticated algorithms to enhance efficiency and output.

Houston Construction Lawyer’s Insight on Subcontractor Advancements

The application of AI and mechanization opens new doors for subcontractors, with drones expediting issue detection and robots potentially undertaking routine inspections. This technological leap could minimize human exposure to hazardous work environments, thus reducing labor costs and possibly ushering in a new era of construction methodology, underscored by the counsel of a seasoned construction lawyer in Houston.

Bonding and Insurance Adaptations in the AI Era

In the construction sector, bonding and insurance are critical for managing subcontractor risk. As a construction lawyer in Houston will advise, bonds assure that contractual duties such as on-time completion and adherence to project details are met. Insurance, meanwhile, provides a shield against the unexpected—from accidents to legal liabilities.

Navigating New Norms with Construction Lawyer Houston

With AI and robotics entering the fray, the parameters of bonding and insurance are set to shift. Bonds retain their importance, yet AI may introduce new criteria for bonding, necessitating a construction lawyer in Houston to navigate these changes. For insurance, the integration of technology could mean lower premiums due to enhanced safety, though the industry’s newness might bring insurer hesitancy.

Bidding in the Age of Automation

The bidding process is also undergoing changes. Subcontractors leveraging AI have an edge, potentially altering project economics. Yet, the cost of adopting such technologies could necessitate higher insurance coverage, balancing out any premium savings.

Conclusion: A New Blueprint for Construction

AI’s ascent offers a chance to redefine construction. Subcontractors, with the guidance of a construction lawyer in Houston, can leverage these technologies for greater productivity and safety. The future will see bonding and insurance evolve to fit AI’s unique risk profile, with savvy subcontractors potentially enjoying lower project costs and a competitive advantage in bidding.

Our team of attorneys at Cokinos | Young have extensive knowledge of construction law and the impact of AI on the industry. For more information about Cokinos | Young and our construction law services, contact our office at 817-635-3600.

About the Author

Jared Norton is an Attorney in the Dallas office of Cokinos | Young. His practice primarily focuses on construction law, insurance coverage, and commercial litigation. Prior to joining Cokinos | Young, Jared solely represented design and engineering professionals against malpractice, construction defect, breach of contract, and indemnity claims. Mr. Norton is experienced in all aspects of litigation in state courts from initial answer or petition, discovery, and case strategy to preparing and arguing motions, conducting depositions, and trial or arbitration preparation.


About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

Pat Wielinski and IRMI Webinar: Insuring Defective Construction Claims Over the Last 50 Years: The Song Remains the Same?

Dallas Principal Pat Wielinski and IRMI recently presented the webinar “Insuring Defective Construction Claims Over the Last 50 Years: The Song Remains the Same?” to launch the latest edition of Insurance For Defective Construction, recently published by IRMI.

WEBINAR Recording

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WEBINAR HANDOUTS

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About Insurance For Defective Construction

In 2000 Pat Wielinski published Insurance for Defective Construction with International Risk Management Institute (IRMI). Early editions of the book focused on commercial general liability (CGL) insurance coverage for construction defects, including evolution of the policy forms. They also detailed the raft of coverage litigation surrounding “occurrence,” “property damage” and “business risk” as applied to the property damage exclusions, describing the nationwide efforts of the construction industry to solidify the underwriting intent behind the policy. Subsequent editions have been expanded to update those developments and to include additional issues. The sixth edition continues that expansion with new discussions, including breach of contract exclusions, pros and cons of wrap-up programs, builders risk and subrogation, contractors professional liability, and pollution coverage as impacting insurance and risk management for construction defects. Along the way, Pat offers commentary, analysis and sometimes opinions drawn from over forty years of representing parties in construction coverage disputes and through risk management counseling. The new edition of Insurance for Defective Construction is available for subscription on IRMI.com, IRMI’s website. If you have any questions, please contact Pat at pwielinski@cokinoslaw.com or 817-635-3620.

Patrick J. Wielinski

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Construction: Subcontractors, Bonding, Insurance & Bidding

The construction industry is witnessing a revolutionary transformation with the integration of artificial intelligence and automation. Among the innovative technologies reshaping the landscape are drones, robots, and advanced machinery. In this post, we specifically explore how AI-driven advancements may impact subcontractors, their work, the bidding process for construction projects, and the traditional bonds and insurance practices they rely on.

The Rise of AI in Construction

Pioneering companies are at the forefront of manufacturing construction-specific drones, robots, and machines. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, produced by industry leaders like DJI and Parrot, have transformed site surveys and inspections. Advanced robotics manufacturers such as Boston Dynamics presently commercially manufacture Spot, a four-legged agile mobile robot capable of independently performing dynamic sensing and inspecting tasks on construction sites traditionally reserved for inspectors. Boston Dynamics has also been developing a bi-pedal robot, Atlas, to be able to perform general labor tasks one may encounter on a construction site. Even Tesla has promised to, one day, mass produce the Optimus humanoid robot, somewhat akin to the NS-5 as seen in the 2004 film starring Will Smith, I, Robot. Additionally, companies like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and Volvo are continuously improving on their construction machinery to better utilize algorithms to optimize performance and improve productivity.

Potential Impact on Subcontractors

AI and automation offer unprecedented opportunities for subcontractors. Integrating drones into site surveys and inspections enables a faster identification of potential issues, allowing for prompt resolution and improved project management. Robots and advanced machinery may enhance productivity by performing scheduled inspections in lieu of a human and mitigate workplace accidents by accessing areas that may pose a danger to a human, thereby reducing overall labor costs and potentially revolutionizing traditional construction practices.

Bonding and Insurance Considerations

Bonding and insurance serve distinct purposes in the construction industry and are essential aspects of subcontractor risk management. Bonds provide financial guarantees that subcontractors will perform their contractual duties, such as timely completion and adherence to project specifications. Insurance serves to safeguard subcontractors from potentially unforeseen accidents, damages, or legal liabilities.

With the rise of AI and automation, bonding and insurance considerations can be expected to evolve. Structurally speaking, bonds would continue to serve as a crucial bulwark for project owners, ensuring subcontractors meet their obligations. However, the influx of AI-influenced or robotics-styled construction work may pose new guidelines for bonding or avenues for the surety company to pursue reimbursement from the principal.

Concerning insurance, depending on the type of construction project, subcontractors that utilize drones, robots, or automated machinery may be viewed as having lower risk profiles. Employing the use of robots or automated machinery may improve the overall safety of the humans overseeing the work and, thus, reduce the subcontractor’s insurance premium. On the other hand, given the nascency of this area, insurance companies might be hesitant to implicitly endorse the use of robotics and machinery—what happens if a robot (Spot, Atlas, Optimus) harms, accidentally or otherwise, a human worker, or “disobeys” an instruction?

Contemplating the Bidding Process

Similar to insurance, the bidding process may witness shifts. Subcontractors employing advanced technologies may have a competitive edge, attracting projects seeking innovative solutions or improved efficiency. The use of drones and robots can enhance accuracy in estimating and project planning, possibly resulting in more competitive bidding amounts.

However, there are other considerations to address. Subcontractors relying on AI-driven machinery may face higher upfront capital expenditures for purchasing and maintaining these technologies. This investment might result in the need for higher insurance coverage, possibly canceling out any savings on premiums from utilizing the machinery in the first place. Separately, what if the robotics or machinery is leased? Such a situation could further complicate the chain of ownership, requiring greater scrutiny for all parties involved, especially if a machine goes awry.

Conclusion: It’s All the Same but Different

The rise of AI and automation presents a transformative opportunity for the construction industry and its subcontractors. By embracing cutting-edge technologies like drones, robots, and advanced machinery, subcontractors can enhance productivity, efficiency, and safety on construction sites. As the industry adapts to these changes, bonding and insurance practices will likely evolve, offering tailored solutions that align with the unique risks and benefits presented by AI-driven advancements. Additionally, while the long-term benefits of AI adoption could lead to lower overall project costs, issues such as initial capital expenditure may keep some subcontractors on a level playing field when it comes to bidding. By understanding and capitalizing on these developments, subcontractors who serve as the frontrunners in adopting these technologies may adapt sooner, and thus thrive, in this revolutionary era of construction.

Our team of attorneys at Cokinos | Young have extensive knowledge of construction law and the impact of AI on the industry. For more information about Cokinos | Young and our construction law services, contact our office at 817-635-3600.

About the Author

Jared Norton is an Attorney in the Dallas office of Cokinos | Young. His practice primarily focuses on construction law, insurance coverage, and commercial litigation. Prior to joining Cokinos | Young, Jared solely represented design and engineering professionals against malpractice, construction defect, breach of contract, and indemnity claims. Mr. Norton is experienced in all aspects of litigation in state courts from initial answer or petition, discovery, and case strategy to preparing and arguing motions, conducting depositions, and trial or arbitration preparation.


About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

Thirteen Texas Super Lawyers® Recognized at Cokinos | Young; Gregory Cokinos Named On The Top 100 Texas & Houston Super Lawyers List

We are excited to announce that thirteen Cokinos | Young attorneys are recognized as 2023 Texas Super Lawyers® and Gregory Cokinos is named on the Top 100 Super Lawyers® list for both Texas and Houston. This distinction is held by less than five percent of Texas lawyers and selections are made on a state-by-state basis.  Independent research consisting of an evaluation of 12 varying indicators of professional achievement combined with peer nominations and evaluations are employed to determine this accolade.

The full list of Super Lawyers will be published in:
– Texas Super Lawyers Magazine, in October 2023
– Texas Monthly, in October 2023
– Gregory Cokinos will be featured in The Top 100 Texas and Top 100 Houston lists

Our Texas Super Lawyers include:

Austin:
Dana Livingston – Appellate; Featured in Super Lawyers Women’s Edition
Marc A. Young – Construction Litigation

Dallas:
Travis M. Brown – Insurance Coverage
Patrick J. Wielinski – Insurance Coverage

Houston:
Gregory M. Cokinos – Construction Litigation; Top 100 List for Texas (14th Year) and Houston (17th Year)
J. Parker Fauntleroy – PI General: Defense
John L. Grayson – Construction Litigation
Craig E. Power – Bankruptcy: Business
Russell W. Smith – Construction Litigation
Roger D. Townsend – Appellate
John C. Warren – Construction Litigation

San Antonio:
Gabriel S. Head – Construction Litigation
Stephanie L. O’Rourke – Construction Litigation; Featured in Super Lawyers Women’s Edition

About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

Stephanie O’Rourke Elected Fellow of American College of Construction Lawyers

Cokinos | Young Principal Stephanie O’Rourke has been selected to serve as a Fellow with the American College of Construction Lawyers. The ACCL is the preeminent national construction law organization. Fellowship in the College is invitation-only and offered to those who are found to have mastered the practice or teaching of construction law and dispute resolution in the complex technical and legal fields shaping to the built environment, whose professional careers have been marked by the highest standards of ethical conduct, scholarship, professionalism, and collegiality, and who have demonstrated a commitment to “give back” to the construction industry. The College includes lawyers from the United States, Canada, Britain, Australia, and France. Stephanie is the first attorney invited to join this organization from San Antonio.

“We are thrilled that Stephanie has been invited to join this prestigious organization,” said Principal and CEO Gregory Cokinos. “Her unwavering commitment to the construction industry, expertise, high ethical standards, professionalism, and collegiality will be invaluable to the College’s mission and noble efforts to improve and enhance the practice and understanding of construction law.”

Stephanie is a member of the firm’s litigation practice group in our San Antonio office. Her practice focuses primarily on the representation of general contractors in construction contract negotiations, construction disputes, and complex business disputes. With a history of favorable verdicts and settlements, Stephanie has been recognized as a leading construction lawyer by numerous publications and organizations, including the highly regarded Chambers USA and Best Lawyers in America.

Stephanie will be formally inducted into the American College of Construction Lawyers during its February 2024 meeting in Carlsbad, California.

Stephanie L. O’Rourke

About Cokinos | Young

Cokinos | Young has led Texas construction and real estate law for over three decades. And today, our 100+ dedicated professionals operate coast to coast and proudly handle all aspects of construction law for owner/developers, project managers, general contractors, design professionals, subcontractors, sureties, and lenders. We provide both dispute resolution and transactional services to clients through all phases of commercial, industrial, pipeline, offshore, civil, and residential construction. Our reputation was built on relentless commitment to client service and the industries we serve, and that remains our primary driver. Dedicated. Resilient. Expertise. That’s Cokinos | Young. Learn more at cokinoslaw.com.

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