Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino once again has been recognized in the Chambers USA guide in the “Construction” category. The 2019 guide describes VLMG as a "well-respected boutique comprised of construction law specialists on both coasts.  Handles sensitive and substantial cases for many of the country's top 100 industry players."  A client lauded the firm for "help[ing] us overcome major construction hurdles on key projects in a timely, intelligent and creative manner; they really know construction law and come up with great ideas and insights."

For 2019, VLMG is again ranked in Band 1 for Construction in Virginia, Band 3 Nationwide and Band 4 in California.

To identify and rank the world’s best lawyers and law firms, Chambers and Partners, a UK-based research and publishing group, employs a team of more than 200 full-time researchers to conduct an in-depth assessment of recent work and extensive interviews.

Chambers and Partners also recognized Paul Varela, Bennett Lee, Todd Metz, Joseph Guarino, Christopher Burke, and Brian Dugdale for their individual achievements.  As described by Chambers:

Ranked in Band 1, Paul Varela is regarded by market observers as a "truly outstanding lawyer" who is "very intelligent and smart."  One of the top construction lawyers in the Virginia, his extensive experience spans infrastructure, transportation, energy, and industrial projects.  He is skilled at advising on contract planning and administration matters, with additional expertise in contentious matters. 

Bennett Lee maintains a significant construction practice, representing clients in arbitrations, construction contract disputes, and projects. He has particular experience advising on transportation infrastructure. One client calls him "fabulously knowledgeable, practical, and responsive" while other sources describe him as "very strategic."

Todd Metz specializes in litigation and arbitration construction disputes arising out of domestic and international projects acting on behalf of owners, contractors, and design professionals.  One source stated:  "He's a very talented lawyer who did a phenomenal job in a challenging case."  Metz predominantly focuses on contentious issues arising from construction and infrastructure projects.

Joe Guarino regularly handles all manner of construction disputes, including arbitrations.  He is experienced at advising on projects in the energy, healthcare, industrial, chemical, and transportation sectors, among others.  He also advises on the preparation, implementation, and termination of state, federal, and private contracts.

Chambers recognizes Christopher Burke as “definitely one of the up-and-coming attorneys” in the area of construction law, according to interviewees.  His practice primarily focuses on disputes arising from the development of infrastructure and power projects.

Recognized as “Up and Coming,” Brian Dugdale handles both contentious and noncontentious matters in the construction industry including contracts, alternative dispute resolution, and litigation.  He is particularly experienced at handling power, infrastructure, industrial, and government projects. 

To view the 2019 Chambers USA rankings in their entirety, click on the links below:  

Construction - Virginia

Construction - California

Construction - Nationwide