My Experience at the ABA Forum on Construction Law 2025 Annual Meeting

April 29, 2025

By: Dan Copeland, Senior Business Development Executive

I recently had the opportunity to attend the ABA Forum on Construction Law's 2025 Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas. This meeting is always a highlight. The primary focus was on the critical issues facing contractors in today's market, and the sessions were incredibly informative.


A major takeaway for me was the emphasis on pre-construction services. It's clear that these services are no longer just a nice-to-have; they're essential for the success of modern construction projects. The panelists provided valuable insights into best practices, the importance of clear communication, and the challenges involved in this crucial phase.


The meeting also featured a wide range of other relevant topics, including productivity and disruption claims, subcontractor relations, surety issues, and delegated design management. The content was top-notch, and I left with a wealth of knowledge to apply at The Primestone Group.


But beyond the educational value, what truly struck me about this conference was the atmosphere. It seemed less like a formal conference and more like a reunion of old friends. Many of the attendees have been involved with the ABA Forum on Construction Law for a long time, and catching up with familiar faces is always a pleasure. For me, it was more than just a professional gathering; it was a chance to reconnect with people I've known and respected for years. Seeing familiar smiles, shaking hands with colleagues who have become friends, and feeling the warmth of this close-knit community of lawyers was truly special. The whole experience was incredibly inviting.


In addition to the sessions, the conference provided ample networking opportunities. I connected with colleagues from across the country, as well as vendors and experts in the construction industry. These connections are invaluable, and I'm grateful for the chance to have made them.


The 2025 Annual Meeting was more than just a conference; it was an experience. I came away with new knowledge, valuable connections, and a renewed sense of enthusiasm for my work in construction law. I'm already looking forward to the next one!


November 26, 2025
At The Primestone Group, we understand the construction process inside and out. Too often, cost estimators are brought in after the design has been finalized, leading to redesigns and delays. To avoid this, an effective strategy is bringing in a cost estimator on board right at the beginning. This isn’t just best practice, it’s how The Primestone Group guarantees budget confidence for your project. Early Cost Involvement Engaging cost estimators at the start of a project provides benefits including: Risk Mitigation: Identifying cost drivers early prevents surprises later on. We can flag materials or scopes that present budget threats. Informed Decision Making: Early estimates allow for multiple design concepts against targeted budgets before too much time is invested. Value Engineering: Providing the team early analysis on different systems, materials and options. The Primestone Way At The Primestone Group, our team acts as proactive partners. We help the design team stay on budget by having constant communication with the team throughout the life of the project. Our team has access to in-depth cost data bank and “real time” cost and production information. We work closely with local contractors and vendors for instant market feedback. This allows us to accurately forecast costs, anticipate price hikes, address supply issues, and secure accurate pricing for major equipment. Ready to discuss your next project?  Connect with our Senior Vice President, Kirk Miller
By looka_production_156706265 November 25, 2025
As the season of giving approaches, we want to share a story of hope and need from a community fighting for safe passage every single year. For months, members of The Primestone Group have volunteered their time alongside Engineers Without Borders DC to tackle a problem in the rural village of Dumangbe, Sierra Leone. Pro bono services provided included expert cost estimating and contract review services for the design of a permanent and resilient bridge. Imagine a village that watches its lifeline disappear under raging water year after year. Every rainy season, the floods return, cutting off Dumangbe's children from their schools, isolating the sick from vital hospitals, and preventing families from reaching essential markets. It's a terrifying disruption to life, health, and opportunity. In April 2026, Shantel Evans, The Primestone Group's President will be boots on the ground, traveling to Dumangbe to help with the physical construction and pouring of the culvert. We need your help to turn this hope into reality. This #GivingTuesday, we ask you to take a moment and feel the weight of this impact. Your contribution will provide safe access for every man, woman, and child in Dumangbe. Help us build this lifeline and ensure the people of Dumangbe can reach where they need to go, year-round, without fear. Every dollar brings a community closer to safe access. Give today