Business Details
Expert Legal Representation in Construction & Surety Law
SMTD Law LLP is a boutique law firm specializing in construction, surety, business, and real estate litigation. Our attorneys bring decades of experience in handling complex disputes unique to the construction and surety industries, combining deep industry knowledge with a client-focused approach. We prioritize understanding our clients' objectives to deliver tailored legal strategies that mitigate risks and achieve measurable results. Our streamlined infrastructure ensures cost-effective representation without compromising the quality or depth of service.With a proven track record in state and federal courts, arbitration, and other tribunals, we advocate fiercely for our clients while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Our commitment to civility and diversity strengthens our ability to serve clients across California, the Southwest, and beyond. We pride ourselves on fostering long-term relationships built on trust, transparency, and a relentless focus on client success.
Services
Construction Litigation
Surety Litigation
Business Litigation
Real Estate Transactions
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Highlights and features
- We offer decades of experience in construction and surety litigation.
- Our boutique firm structure ensures personalized, cost-effective legal solutions.
- We maintain a proven track record in state and federal courts nationwide.
- Our ADR practice is led by a nationally recognized arbitrator with 45+ years of experience.
- We are recognized by Chambers USA and Best Lawyers in America for construction law excellence.
Associations and certifications
- Best Lawyers in America
- Chambers USA
- American Arbitration Association
- California Public Works Arbitration Program
Services
Construction Litigation
Our attorneys handle all facets of construction disputes, including contract negotiations, bid protests, payment disputes, and litigation in state and federal courts. We counsel clients on risk mitigation, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution to ensure project success. With decades of experience, we provide strategic legal solutions tailored to the unique challenges of the construction industry.
Surety Litigation
We represent sureties in complex bond-related disputes, including performance, payment, and bid bond claims. Our services include defending against fraud claims, pursuing indemnity actions, and resolving priority disputes. Our deep understanding of surety law ensures effective advocacy to minimize financial exposure and protect client interests.
Business Litigation
We resolve business disputes across industries, including breach of contract, real estate conflicts, and bankruptcy representation. Our approach focuses on aligning legal strategies with business objectives to achieve favorable outcomes. We handle cases in state and federal courts, emphasizing cost-effective solutions for complex commercial matters.
Real Estate Transactions
We counsel clients on commercial real estate acquisitions, development, leasing, and dispositions. Our services include drafting contracts, entity formation, and due diligence reviews. With experience in transactions exceeding $700 million, we provide comprehensive legal support for developers, owners, and investors in diverse real estate projects.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Led by a nationally recognized arbitrator, our ADR practice resolves construction and commercial disputes through mediation, arbitration, and neutral evaluation. We prioritize efficient, cost-effective solutions to avoid litigation, leveraging decades of industry experience to facilitate fair resolutions for all parties involved.
People
Marilyn Klinger
Managing Partner
With 45+ years of experience, Marilyn Klinger leads SMTD Law's ADR practice and serves on the AAA national roster of construction arbitrators. She specializes in construction law and dispute resolution, representing clients across the industry spectrum.
Questions
What areas of law does SMTD Law LLP specialize in?
We specialize in construction, surety, business, and real estate litigation, along with alternative dispute resolution services.
Do you handle cases outside California?
Yes, we handle matters throughout the Southwest, nationally, and in jurisdictions where our clients require representation.
What experience does your firm have in construction law?
Our attorneys have decades of experience in construction litigation, contract counseling, and dispute resolution for public and private projects.
How does your ADR practice benefit clients?
Our ADR services provide cost-effective alternatives to litigation, led by a seasoned arbitrator with 45+ years in construction law.
Can you assist with surety bond disputes?
Yes, we represent sureties in performance, payment, and bid bond claims, focusing on risk mitigation and indemnity recovery.
What types of business litigation do you handle?
We address breach of contract, real estate conflicts, bankruptcy representation, and complex debt collection matters in state and federal courts.
