Justin P. Short, Best & Flanagan LLP

Partner, Best & Flanagan LLP

Justin P. Short is a construction lawyer with an emphasis on infrastructure, highway and bridge, renewable energy and vertical construction projects. His practice extends throughout the upper Midwest and over to Colorado. He works primarily with prime contractors and subcontractors on projects for state and federal governments and the Army Corps of Engineers.

“Minnesota is home to some of the most innovative and sophisticated contractors in the country. The quality of their work often takes them to other states for complex projects, which often takes us to those other states as well,” said Short during an interview for Minnesota Lawyer in regard to infrastructure work in Minnesota.

What are the biggest challenges you currently see in construction or real estate law?

Construction projects are becoming increasingly complex, which results in an increasingly complex analysis and presentation of such claims. Recent legislative changes affecting the construction industry were not well vetted prior to their passage resulting in numerous, unanticipated legal issues for the construction industry as well as confusion and uncertainty as to the intent and application of these new laws.

What advice would you give a business to avoid legal complications in construction or real estate?

Quality contracts and subcontracts on the front end of the project that are in compliance with recent legislative changes; training to employees regarding proper documentation of events to protect themselves in the event of a dispute; and pragmatic and financial-minded approaches to claims.

Without revealing the names of a client, what is the most interesting transaction you’ve worked on lately?

Construction of a $270,000,000 bio-diesel, renewable energy plant. My client was the EPC contractor and the case involved numerous issues regarding design changes, allegations of non-conforming work, and alterations of the plant by the owner without the knowledge or consent of the EPC contractor.

How do you manage work/life balance?

I set aside specific hours of each day to solely devote to family time. I keep my phone off during these times.

What is one thing you would change about Minnesota if you could?

Nothing. We live in a fantastic state.

What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I’m an avid gardener.