Nicholas Kauffman focuses on the representation of architects and engineers in prosecuting and defending professional liability matters involving construction defect and delay claims. He also has defended contractors, subcontractors and property managers in the full range of property damage and personal injury claims that can arise in the commercial construction industry.
While working in the firm’s Chicago office, Nicholas coordinated the national defense of product liability cases primarily involving medical products and industrial equipment. He re-joined the New York office construction litigation team in 2010, and continues to represent clients in product liability matters. Nicholas has experience in state and federal courts nationwide as well as in arbitrations and mediations, and has secured both jury verdicts and seven-figure settlements on behalf of his clients.
Nicholas is adept at formulating early case resolution strategies to help clients reduce their litigation costs and exposures. In his prior role as national product liability coordinating counsel, Nicholas reviewed claims handled by local defense counsel and developed a strategy for early resolution through mediation. Working with a network of mediators across the country, he resolved hundreds of claims for his clients through mediated settlement, realizing substantial cost savings for his clients.
Areas of Focus
Construction
In his construction litigation practice, Nicholas has prosecuted or defended numerous delay damage claims, design claims, lien actions, change order claims, injured worker claims and construction bond/surety claims arising from the construction of office, residential and institutional properties. This work has included significant litigation that permits architects to seek damages for economic losses. He also has represented clients in the negotiation of contracts between the various parties on a construction project. In addition, Nicholas has defended clients against safety and code violation citations by OSHA and the New York City Department of Buildings.