Our firm provides legal counsel on all stages of construction projects, from contract negotiation and project financing to dispute resolution and claims management.
Contract Drafting and Advisory
- Drafting and reviewing construction contracts, including FIDIC-based contracts adapted to Ethiopian law
- Advising on contractor and subcontractor agreements
- Preparing joint venture agreements for construction projects
- Drafting engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts
- Providing legal opinions on contract interpretation and risk allocation
Regulatory Compliance and Licensing
- Advising on construction industry licensing requirements with the Ethiopian Construction Authority
- Assisting with registration of local and foreign contractors and consultants
- Ensuring compliance with environmental, labor, and safety regulations
- Advising on government and public procurement laws and bidding processes
Dispute Resolution
- Representing clients in construction-related litigation and arbitration
- Handling disputes related to delay, defects, variations, and payment claims
- Enforcing and defending against performance guarantees and advance payment guarantees
- Filing claims and defenses before arbitration tribunals, courts, and regulatory bodies
- Advising on dispute adjudication boards (DAB) procedures under FIDIC contracts
Project Support and Risk Management
- Performing legal due diligence on construction projects
- Advising on land acquisition and expropriation matters
- Advising on insurance and indemnity requirements in construction contracts
- Preparing legal compliance checklists for large-scale infrastructure and private developments
Construction Law Services — FAQs
Are FIDIC contracts commonly used in Ethiopia?
Yes—FIDIC forms are widely used on medium and large projects. We review and adapt contract conditions, align them with local law, and advise on risk allocation, variations, extensions of time, and claims management throughout the project lifecycle.
What key legal services do you provide for construction projects in Ethiopia?
We provide comprehensive legal support throughout the entire project lifecycle. This includes drafting and negotiating construction contracts compliant with Ethiopian standards, advising on permits and regulatory compliance, and representing clients in dispute resolution—whether through arbitration or litigation—for issues like project delays, defects, or payment disputes.