CONSTRUCTION LAW
Protecting Payments, Projects & Financial Interests
Financial issues can disrupt even the most well-planned construction projects. When payments are delayed, contractors face cash flow problems, or a party becomes insolvent, the legal and financial consequences can escalate quickly. At Davison Eastman Muñoz Paone, P.A., our New Jersey construction law attorneys help contractors, developers, subcontractors, and property owners navigate bankruptcy, restructuring, and creditor’s rights matters with clarity and strategy.
Whether you are seeking to recover unpaid funds or responding to financial distress within a project, we provide practical legal solutions to protect your interests and keep construction projects moving forward whenever possible.
Construction Payment Issues & Financial Risk
The construction industry is particularly vulnerable to payment disruptions. A delay or default by one party can create a ripple effect across the entire project.
We assist clients with:
- Non-payment and delayed payment disputes
- Contract enforcement and collections
- Financial exposure related to project delays
- Protecting rights under construction agreements
Our goal is to help clients take swift, effective action to minimize losses and maintain financial stability.
BRIAN W. KEATTS, ESQ.
With over 20 years of experience across multiple state and federal jurisdictions, Brian has represented clients across a wide range of industries, including the construction, energy, business, commercial real estate, environmental, banking, insurance and governmental sectors.
Brian Keatts’s practice focuses on all facets of complex commercial litigation and general liability matters, including construction litigation and dispute resolution, construction contracts and risk management advisory, drafting property right agreements, contractual disputes, condemnation/eminent domain, consumer fraud claims, regulatory claims and licensing (e.g., A901 licensing), and various tort and business interruption claims.
Mechanic’s Liens & Payment Protection
One of the most powerful tools available in construction is the ability to assert lien rights. Properly filed liens can provide security for unpaid work and materials.
Our construction bankruptcy attorneys guide clients through:
- Filing and enforcing mechanic’s liens in New Jersey
- Responding to lien claims and disputes
- Understanding lien deadlines and statutory requirements
- Protecting priority rights among creditors
Because lien laws are highly technical, timing and accuracy are critical. Our attorneys ensure your rights are preserved and properly enforced.
Bankruptcy & Insolvency in Construction Projects
When a contractor, developer, or property owner files for bankruptcy, it can significantly impact ongoing and completed projects. Payments may be delayed, contracts may be rejected, and legal priorities can shift quickly.
We represent clients in matters involving:
- Contractor or subcontractor bankruptcy
- Owner insolvency affecting project funding
- Claims in bankruptcy proceedings
- Protecting contract rights during financial restructuring
Our attorneys help clients understand their position and develop strategies to recover funds and reduce exposure.
Creditor’s Rights & Debt Recovery
For contractors and suppliers, unpaid invoices can create serious financial strain. We work with clients to enforce their rights and pursue recovery through appropriate legal channels.
Our services include:
- Demand letters and pre-litigation strategies
- Negotiation of payment plans and settlements
- Litigation to recover unpaid balances
- Coordination with lien enforcement and bankruptcy claims
By combining legal tools with practical negotiation strategies, we help clients maximize recovery while controlling costs.
Proactive Financial Risk Management
Many financial disputes can be avoided with proper planning. We work with clients to implement strategies that reduce exposure before problems arise.
This includes:
- Structuring contracts to protect payment rights
- Identifying financial risks early in the project lifecycle
- Advising on documentation and compliance best practices
- Coordinating legal strategies with overall business operations
Taking a proactive approach can significantly reduce the likelihood of costly disputes and financial losses.
Local Experience: Freehold & Toms River Construction Disputes
With offices in Freehold and Toms River, our attorneys represent contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, developers, property owners, lenders, and other construction professionals throughout Monmouth County, Ocean County, Central New Jersey, and across the state in construction-related financial disputes and bankruptcy matters. Our understanding of local courts, procedures, and industry practices allows us to provide efficient and effective representation tailored to each case.
Whether your project is local or spans multiple regions in New Jersey, we bring responsive, knowledgeable counsel to every matter.
Contact Davison Eastman Muñoz Paone, P.A. Today
Protect Your Financial Interests in Construction Projects
Financial challenges are an unavoidable reality in construction, but with the right legal strategy they can be managed effectively. At Davison Eastman Muñoz Paone, P.A., we help clients across New Jersey navigate bankruptcy, enforce creditor’s rights, and recover what they are owed.
If you are facing non-payment, financial disputes, or construction-related bankruptcy issues, contact our team today to protect your interests and move forward with confidence.
CONSTRUCTION LAW
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CONSTRUCTION BANKRUPTCY
What can I do if I’m not paid for construction work in New Jersey?
You may have several options, including filing a mechanic’s lien, pursuing a breach of contract claim, or initiating legal action to recover payment. Timing is critical, so it’s important to act quickly.
What is a mechanic’s lien?
A mechanic’s lien is a legal claim against a property for unpaid construction work or materials. It can provide leverage and security for payment if properly filed.
How does bankruptcy affect a construction project?
Bankruptcy can delay or limit payment, impact contract rights, and change how claims are handled. Creditors must follow specific procedures to recover funds in bankruptcy proceedings.
Can I still get paid if a contractor or owner files for bankruptcy?
Possibly. Your ability to recover depends on factors such as lien rights, contract terms, and your status as a creditor in the bankruptcy case.
How can I protect myself from non-payment in construction projects?
Financial challenges are an unavoidable reality in construction, but with the right legal strategy they can be managed effectively. At Davison Eastman Muñoz Paone, P.A., we help clients across New Jersey navigate bankruptcy, enforce creditor’s rights, and recover what they are owed.
YEARS OF
LEGAL EXCELLENCE
ATTORNEYS & STAFF
YEARS RUNNING
BEST LAWYERS®
MATTERS
Legal Questions? Let’s Talk!
We appreciate your interest and welcome any inquiries you may have. If you're seeking further information about our services, we're here to assist you. Feel free to use the provided contact form or reach out to us directly via email or phone. Thank you for considering Davison Eastman Muñoz Paone, P.A., and we look forward to connecting with you soon.
Legal Questions? Let’s Talk!
We appreciate your interest and welcome any inquiries you may have. If you’re seeking further information about our services, we’re here to assist you. Feel free to use the provided contact form or reach out to us directly via email or phone. Thank you for considering us, and we look forward to connecting with you soon.


