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NAHB Legal Services Help Builders Survive Downturn
From the first stages of a business transaction to full-blown legal disputes, NAHB members have access to many legal services that can help their business, and some are particularly geared to providing support in today’s tough economic times.
Legal services for NAHB members and affiliates include:
- Legal Consultation — Free business survival information on bankruptcy, reorganization, liens, subcontractor disputes and partnership issues. The information, prepared by the Texas-based international law firm Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP, is available at nahb.org/legalconsultation in a "Frequently Asked Questions" format. Members whose questions are not answered on the Web site posting will be able to call or e-mail the law firm for more information.
- Legal Research — Free legal research assistance and information on all building industry-related issues to all members and affiliated HBAs. The program cannot replace a local attorney but can provide an understandable response to a legal question, saving time and money. To make a request for research or information, contact the Legal Research Program online or call 800-368-5242 x8491.
- Legal Ordinance Review Program — Free legal review of local ordinances and state legislation that have an impact on the development and construction industry. To make a request for an ordinance review, contact an NAHB attorney online or call 800-368-5242 x8329.
- Legal Education Seminars — Basic knowledge, legal principles, concepts and applicable law for builders, developers and remodelers. The most popular educational program is the “90-Minute Law School,” but NAHB also offers more in-depth educational programs on specific legal issues affecting the residential construction industry. Programs can be tailored to the individual needs and concerns of any home builders association, 20 Club or other associated member group. To learn more, call 800-368-5242 x8491.
- Legal Action Fund — Funding to help defray the cost of litigation or support via an amicus brief to an appellate court in support of an ongoing case. The Legal Action Committee and Executive Board of NAHB consider grant applications during each of the three annual board of directors meetings. For a copy of the NAHB Legal Action Fund guidelines and an application, click here. For more information, call 800-368-5242 x8485.
- LANDS — A national network of land use and environmental attorneys representing affiliates and members in the courts. The LANDS program not only provides members and affiliates a resource for legal assistance but also offers regular opportunities for education, networking and expert advice for lawyers within the federation. For more information, call 800-368-5242 x8485.
- CLAF — A network of industry attorneys who dedicate a substantial portion of their practice to construction defect and builder liability issues. CLAF brings together attorneys on the front lines of today’s legal concerns. For more information, call 800-368-5242 x8317.
- Green Building — A brochure from the NAHB Building Products Issues Committee provides legal advice for home builders and remodelers who are turning their attention to green building. “Before You Build Green: A Primer on Avoiding Liability Pitfalls” offers pointers on marketing, contracts, warranties, training and compliance issues — all with an eye toward promoting successful green building projects and limiting exposure to liability. The brochure includes resources for builders for additional technical and educational assistance.
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