Joseph C. Calmes

We have had the pleasure of being represented by Joe virtually exclusively for construction law matters for over 30 years in the Northwest. My personal involvement with him has covered the last 18 years. He knows everyone in the market and he knows how to work with them. This in itself is invaluabl...e in a highly collaborative industry where contracts are the foundation of everything we do. Joe has many enviable traits as an attorney. First he is a good listener. He gets the facts right and asks questions until everyone is clear. Second, he gives both legal and business advice. There are many ways to 'solve' a contractual impasse or dispute: some make more sense than others. Third: He will take direction from his client; he recognizes the need to solve the issues within the context of each client's business and relationship circumstances. Ultimately it is up to the client to make the call. Fourth: in addition to being prepared, he stays calm, even if his client is not. Fifth, he likes to win. But he is not ego driven. It is never about Joe. Sixth, he is always conscious of the cost to the client: he does not waste time or spend hours that do not add value. He will ask if he is not sure about a task - he won't just assume it is worth the cost. Joe has steered us away from from many disputes by pushing for clear contract language up front. He has also led us through disputes which were unavoidable. His track record of offering sound advice and reaching acceptable business outcomes in those disputes is enviable. We have been fortunate to work with Joe for many years. His experience and knowledge of the law and the major players here are invaluable. I would most heartily recommend him to anyone who wants to get construction law "right".