Litigation Construction Services

Investigation into the issues surrounding the claims is paramount to the success of the case.  When it comes to construction and design defect investigation, a client can count on exceptional and meticulous investigation from Blackstone.  These services include:

• Field investigation, including visual inspections and destructive testing
• Analysis of design and construction documentation to effectively evaluate as-built conditions
• Determination and allocation of responsibility for building component failures
• Scope of Repair recommendations
• Analysis and determination of product failures
• Professional reports which include photographic evidence and defect analysis

Blackstone is comprised of individuals with varying backgrounds and experiences.  Our team uses their expertise and current experience in all phases of construction to provide the background and credibility required for an accurate estimate of repair and construction costs.  Blackstone’s current construction experience gives our team an edge as we bring real world numbers to the litigation table. 

Through research and knowledge of the international building code and California building code, the Blackstone team can provide the analysis of applicable local requirements to determine if the project was built in compliance with code specifications. 

Blackstone’s consultants are experienced and qualified to provide trial, arbitration, and deposition expert testimony.  With our extensive knowledge base in the construction industry, we are able to assist attorneys, both Plaintiff and Defense, in preparing high-quality presentations and exhibits to explain complex construction and building concepts.   As part of Blackstone’s services, our clients can count on our consultants to participate in expert meetings, settlement conferences, mediation and arbitration.  Our Consultants will participate in the analysis of building assemblies and design and defect claims and provide deposition and trial testimony.

Dave has over twenty-five years’ experience in the construction industry. His experience includes wood and structural steel for single family, multi-family and commercial construction. Mr. Tognela’s diverse background provides the basis of his work as a construction consultant and expert for construction defect litigation. His consulting experience includes: project management, construction defect analysis, code and industry standards review and analysis, litigation support, and waterproofing consulting and peer review.

Degrees and Designations:

• CA Licensed General Contractor – B-663030n B/C27 -947818 B# 1011353 B# 1022662
• Four Year Construction Management Degree, Camosun College, BC, Canada

Tom is a third-generation builder.  His experience of ownership and construction site management of high-end homes have provided him with an extensive knowledge of design, construction and teamwork.  Tom brings a custom home mindset to the project.  He oversees reconstruction projects for Blackstone.  His specialty in construction defect analysis and code compliance review are evident in his diligent project management oversight.

Degrees and Designations:

• California Licensed General Contractor – Class B #1011353
• Bachelor of Arts, University of California Irvine

Ian is an experienced licensed architect and construction forensic expert with demonstrated abilities to be a creative, analytical and strategic problem solver.  Mr. Cha is also a construction litigation attorney with professional liability insurance claims management experience. 

Degrees and Designations:

• Licensed Attorney, State Bar of California
• Licensed Architect, California Architects Board
• Juris Doctor, Indiana University
• Master of Architecture, UCLA
• Bachelor of Science, Georgia Tech

Seamus is a licensed general contractor with more than a decade of experience investigating construction defect claims. Mr. Vanecko has assisted attorneys in reaching favorable outcomes in hundreds of cases involving residential, commercial and institutional buildings.  

Degrees and Designations:

• California Licensed General Contractor - Class B #878409
• Bachelor of Arts, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
• Certificate in Construction Management, U.C. Berkeley
• International Code Council Residential Inspector