MATTHEW
NEEDHAM-LAING
PARTNER 
Admitted as a solicitor:   1994

Matthew qualified and practiced as an architect before qualifying as a solicitor in 1994 and gaining an MSc in construction law in 1997.  Prior to joining DJB, Matthew was a Partner at Edwin Coe and he was the Head of Construction and Engineering at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP (UK). 

Matthew specialises in contentious and non-contentious construction and engineering law.  His non-contentious practice covers drafting and negotiating all forms of construction and engineering contracts, and advising on all associated bonds and guarantees.  Matthew also has considerable experience of advising on engineering contracts for oil and gas companies and pharmaceutical infrastructure projects.

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His expertise in contentious construction and engineering law covers adjudication, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution.  Matthew has has acted as an adjudicator in numerous construction and engineering disputes.  

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Matthew's earlier qualification and career as an architect ensures he not only understands the law but also the technical and commercial requirements of his clients.  For example, he worked as an architect on hotel, office and retail projects and this background lends unique insight into the problems associated with major construction projects.  

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Matthew lectures on matters relating to construction law and adjudication, and regularly features in the construction and property press.  He is a contributor to the Architects Legal Handbook, and holds memberships at the Worshipful Company of Arbitrators, the Society of Construction Law, the Society for Computers and Law and the Technology and Construction Solicitors Association.  

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Matthew recently featured in DJB's 2022 Market Report.  Read the report and Matthew's article here. 

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