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This article discusses the recent case of City of Los Angeles Department of Airports v. U.S. Specialty Insurance Company, 2022 WL 2156119. It was published in the July 7, 2022 edition of the Los Angeles Daily Journal. The City had sought $3.4 MM against a contractor and its performance bond surety. The City prevailed on liability and was awarded $1.00 in damages. Us. Specialty, the surety, sought its attorney's fees by post trial motions. The trial court denied fees at least twice and was ultimately affirmed by the First District. While the controlling cases give the trial court discretion in determining who the prevailing party is for purposes of awarding fees, I argue that the trial court abused its discretion and the Court of Appeal should have remanded.

Summary of applicable California and federal law on work product privilege and the use of experts.

Have an experienced lawyer review your contract before you sign it. It may save you thousands.

Avoid arbitration if possible. Early mediation before going to court is a better option.

Sureties should generally avoid pay-when-paid clauses in a subcontract as a defense to an otherwise valid payment bond claim.

Recent cases granting or denying Anti-SLAPP motions.

Tips for helping contractors to avoid disputes and litigation.

Some tips for homeowners before entering into a home improvement contract.

Court of Appeal imposes $90,000.00 in attorney's fees against surety issuing $12,500.00 license bond.