How often do you get (or give) Halloween treats without the magic words, “Trick or Treat!”?
Many Government Contractors are aware of and careful to include a proper certification of their contract claims to the Federal Government, as required by the Contract Disputes Act. But, they should also expressly request a Contracting Officer’s Final Decision on the claim. Without an express, or at least implied, request the various Boards of Contract Appeals may have no choice but to dismiss a Contractor’s later appeal.
Without a request for a contracting officer’s final decision, claimants may seek treats, but get tricked instead.
Appeal of Andrews Contracting Services, LLC, ASBCA No. 60808 (May 22, 2017).
Maropakis Carpentry, Inc. v. U.S., 609 F.3d 1323 (Fed. Cir. 2010).
Prime Contractor Had No Duty to Help Surety Investigate Sub’s Default
We all know what happens when we “ASS-U-ME” something. So, we should all carefully avoid assuming things unnecessarily.
It’s Good to Be the King
Mel Brooks in the movie History of the World: Part I (1981) said it best – “It’s good to be the King.” It’s also true when asserting claims against the State or an arm or agent of the State.
Smoke Without Fire: Damage from Concrete Dust Covered by Insurance
You’ve heard, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.” In this instance, the smoke was concrete dust that damaged a warehouse full of aircraft […]
Changes Made After Substantial Completion Did Not Extend Overall Project Time
Contractors take heed – a time extension may be issued after substantial completion for specific work and the Government can still assess […]
One-Sided Construction Arbitration Clause Valid in Virginia
When it’s time to butt heads, know how the local turf (court) will interpret the clause.
Manage the Risk of Construction Changes
Almost any problem on a construction project can be traced to one of two things: changes or delays (even delays are really just changes). As in life, embrace and manage the change don’t run from it.
Want Your Profit? Prove a Constructive Change, Not a Suspension of Work.
What’s the Difference Between a Suspension of Work and a Constructive Change? For federal contractors, there are two main differences: . . .
No Special Defenses to Arbitration Agreements
Arbitration agreements, whether they are separate or part of a larger agreement, are contracts – an enforceable set of promises between parties. […]
How to Find (and Confirm) the Plain Meaning in a Contract
Contract formation confirms the parties understand and agree to all the essential terms. When that understanding and agreement fades, how do you […]
