Construction Super Conference 2018

Ellen Chapelle
J.D., Partner
Gould & Ratner LLP


As co-chair of the firm's Construction Practice, Ellen Chapelle has a wide range of experience that spans both the litigation and corporate sides of representing construction clients. After beginning her career as a complex commercial litigator, Ellen began applying the knowledge gained through litigation to commercial contracts, including construction contracts, vendor agreements and non-disclosure agreements. Ellen’s work in the construction industry involves representing corporations, partnerships, owners, general contractors and subcontractors in connection with both public and private projects. Her experience includes handling construction defect claims, change orders, delay claims, claims for cardinal changes in the contract, mechanics lien claims, bond claims and claims involving “pay when paid” clauses. In the corporate arena, Ellen negotiates and drafts contracts, including construction contracts, vendor agreements and non-disclosure agreements. She drafts specifications for insurance, including scope of coverage and additional insured requirements. Ellen counsels clients concerning risk avoidance in the contracting process, including the importance of identifying gaps between insurance and indemnity provisions. Ellen also has extensive experience in commercial litigation involving bankruptcy, contract disputes, trade secrets, defamation, professional liability, local governmental taxation and constitutional issues. She has practiced in both state and federal trial and appellate courts, as well as appearing in administrative proceedings. She is also experienced in alternative dispute resolution. With respect to insurance coverage matters, Ellen has represented clients in disputes with their insurers for coverage under property, general liability and builders risk policies. In addition, she has litigated cases seeking insurance coverage for property damaged by construction defects.

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