Varela Lee Metz & Guarino

VLMG is one of only 6 law firms in the United States to be nominated in the category of Construction for the prestigious Chambers USA Awards for Excellence 2016. To read more, click here. Chambers and Partners, a London-based publisher, selects leading firms and lawyers by researching firms and lawyers for each state, in over twenty areas of commercial law, and conducting over 5,000 interviews with top private practice attorneys and in-house counsel. The USA Guide was first published in 2003. As noted by Chambers USA, Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP is a "flourishing construction group" with "extensive construction industry experience and understanding" and a "deep bench of talent" in handling "national and international mandates with clear strength in dispute resolution. Credited with being "very responsive and very knowledgeable," clients praise the firm's "common-sense approach; premier litigation skills; and excellent value." Notable practitioners include Paul Varela, Bennett Lee, and Todd Metz: Paul Varela has a varied practice involving national and international mandates for clients from all sectors. He is adept at contract drafting, project management and litigation support. One effusive source reported that "he has decades of experience with significant projects all over the world." Bennett Lee is well regarded by commentators for his constructive approach to complex disputes. He is described as "an unflinching, seasoned construction litigator and powerful advocate," whose "ability to predict the opposing counsel's next move is uncanny." Todd Metz is well versed in the representation of contractors, owners, design professionals and sureties in a variety of construction matters. He works in numerous sectors, including transportation, energy and industrial projects. Sources say: "He will work incredibly hard for the clients' benefit. You can count on him for a thorough and complete analysis." VLMG is pleased to announce that three partners have been recognized in the 2014 edition of Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business, for their excellence in the practice area of Construction. Paul Varela of Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino is described as "tenacious but diplomatic - he has an excellent rapport with clients and opposing lawyers, with a great deal of experience across market segments. His practice centers on litigation and arbitration, representing major construction clients throughout the USA and internationally. Todd Metz of Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino is highly praised by commentators for his practical and collaborative approach to disputes. He is notably experienced in the representation of clients in the energy and utilities sectors, with an impressive track record in international matters. Bennett Lee recently joined Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino from Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald. According to observers, he is "a strong attorney" who "has a realistic approach to construction disputes. His practice covers a wide variety of matters concerning industrial and commercial construction. Observers highlight Bennett Lee as "a solid litigator with a very good understanding of the contractor surety side of the construction business. Sources also say: "He has the ability to combine solid business strategy and business sense with his legal advice. He is also well-respected for his work as a mediator. Todd Metz focuses on contentious matters, advising all parties on construction claims and bid protests throughout the USA and internationally. He is commended by sources as "a competent practitioner who presents his arguments persuasively." Paul Varela advised Tishman Construction Corporation on a $500 million multiparty dispute pertaining to the 18 million sq ft mixed-use development CityCenter, located in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Clients laud him as "a valuable asset who really understands our business."