Articles
Residential Contractors Should Know Their Rights
In the January issue of Building Industry Hawaii, residential contractors were alerted to problems they may face if their written contract does not comply with Section 444-25.5 of the Hawaii Contractors’ Law. Hawaii law also provides certain positive rights to...
Holding On to Sub-Bids
Hawaii law limits the types of work that can be done by a general contractor. Under Okada Trucking v. Board of Water Supply, 97 Hawaii 450 (2002), general contractors must retain subcontractors for all work not automatically included in their A (engineering) or B...
Retaining Control of a Bond Claim
Most of the general contractors we represent have had to post performance bonds or payment bonds at one time or another. In addition to paying a premium, they have to agree that, if a claim or a lawsuit is filed against the bond, they will indemnify (i.e. reimburse)...
Before You Sue, Consider Mediation
Have you ever reached a point in your dispute with a contractor or another professional or a family member when you have said: “I’ve had it. I need a good lawyer. I’m going to sue!” As a lawyer with over 40 years in practice, let me offer a word of advice: Wait. Take...
Brokers are Liable
Stockbrokers and financial planners are required by law to “know their clients” and recommend investments that are appropriate for them. The rules governing brokers require that they have reasonable grounds for believing that every recommendation is suitable for the...
