ABOUT
James V. Petersen
A Construction Lawyer with Industry Experience
I am a Louisiana-barred attorney with a background in both construction and law. Before entering legal practice, I worked as a contractor and later served as in-house counsel for a construction company. That experience allows me to approach each case with a practical understanding of how projects are actually built, where problems arise, and how disputes develop.
I don’t just review a legal file—I understand the blueprints, the job site, and the decisions that led to the issue.
Experience Across Construction and Litigation
My practice is built on experience from both sides of the case. I have represented plaintiffs and defendants in complex matters, including construction disputes, consumer protection claims, and personal injury cases.
As in-house counsel, I worked on contract negotiation, risk management, and dispute resolution from the business side of construction. In private practice, I have handled claims involving defective work, payment disputes, and site-related injuries. This combination allows me to evaluate cases with a clear understanding of how they will be challenged and defended.
Focused Practice Areas
My firm focuses on three areas that often overlap in construction-related matters:
- Construction Law: Representing homeowners, contractors, and suppliers in claims involving the New Home Warranty Act (NHWA), breach of contract, redhibition, and enforcement of rights under the Private Works Act.
- Homeowner Protection: Pursuing claims under the Louisiana Unfair Trade Practices Act (LUTPA), contractor fraud statutes, and licensing violations involving deceptive or unlawful conduct.
- Personal Injury: Representing individuals injured on job sites or due to construction defects, including third-party liability claims against subcontractors, property owners, and manufacturers.
A Practical Approach to Legal Problems
I focus on clear, direct solutions. Construction disputes and injury cases are often technical, but the objective is straightforward: identify the problem, determine responsibility, and pursue a resolution based on the facts.
Whether the issue involves defective construction, unpaid work, or a serious injury, I approach each case with a strategy grounded in both legal analysis and real-world experience.
Direct Representation
As a solo practitioner, I handle my cases personally. Clients work directly with me throughout the process. I do not delegate case strategy or communication to layers of staff.
This allows me to stay fully involved in each case and provide consistent, focused representation.
Commitment to Public Service
My work is guided by a commitment to public service. Early in my career, I was recognized with the ABA John J. Curtin, Jr. Justice Fund Fellowship for work supporting underserved communities. That commitment continues to inform my practice today.
I believe that homeowners, contractors, and injured individuals should have access to clear legal guidance and strong representation when they need it.
Contact
If you are dealing with a construction dispute, contractor issue, or injury, you can contact my office to schedule a consultation.
